I see. And you've never needed a second chance yourself?
I am very grateful for the second chances I've received in life.
I am very grateful for the second chances I've received in life.
But I feel he's forfeited this opportunity [to be a high-profile science journalist]. At least as far as I'm concerned. Plenty of other great stuff to read.
But this was as thorough an apology as I can recall seeing from anyone about anything. I will be very surprised if he turns out not to have meant it.
It actually predisposes me to take a look at whatever he writes next. The process of confronting one's character flaws and addressing them deepens a person. I expect that whatever he has to say next will be edifying -- as indeed this piece was.
EDITED to add: it's certainly possible I'm being naive and accepting his apology too easily.
I thought that at first too, but then I wondered what was with that story about the Muslim lawyer who was erroneously picked up and jailed by the FBI and it turned out they had it wrong. Is he saying he's a victim?!?!? That's what it started to sound like to me. So I'm not sure I believe it's an apology.
I wish Lehrer luck in whatever career he chooses to switch to in the future.