Dear Cleveland, all of Northeast Ohio and Cleveland Cavaliers supporters wherever you may be tonight:

As you now know, your former hero, who grew up in the very region that he deserted this summer, is no longer a Cleveland Cavalier.

In many ways, this was announced with a several-day, narcissistic, self-promotional build-up culminating with a national TV special of his “decision” unlike anything ever “witnessed” in the history of sports…and probably, the history of entertainment.

Clearly, this was bitterly disappointing to all of you.

But in the face of adversity, I implore you not to act a fool tonight.

LeBron James is a basketball player.  LeBron James is also a person.  He chose the path that his heart desired.  To play with friends.  To enjoy a warmer climate.  To presumably have a better chance at winning an NBA championship.   

He did not choose to play where he could have made the most money.  He did choose to make sacrifices to the way that everyone perceived him.  He did choose to make sacrifices to his individual statistics. 

Don’t let the hype surrounding “the King’s return” persuade you to do something regrettable in the presence of other disappointed Cavs fans.

Dan Gilbert's inability to keep things professional is only further igniting Cleveland's fire towards James.

All in all, remember that we have all made choices.  They may have seemed good to some.  They may have seemed bad to others.  Nevertheless, we made those choices based on our own personal assessment of what we needed in our lives at that time.  As Cavs fans, a better strategy would be to keep your energy, focus, capital, knowledge and experience directed toward the much bigger goal of building the championship team you have long deserved.

So, tonight, enjoy the excitement ushered into town by your former hero.  Have fun, and passionately support your hometown Cavaliers.  

And remember at the heart of it all…it’s just a basketball game.  The “decision” made by James is not going to affect whether you have shelter, how you feed your family, or whether you can sleep comfortably tonight.  Save your wrath for the circumstances that adversely affect things of that nature.

Because when the smoke clears – - what you do tonight will provide the most telling insight into your character.

And Cleveland, it’s time to rise above what people expect of you.

T Lamont is the owner, administrator and author of all content for Ball or Nuthin\'. Feel free to contact T Lamont with a question or comment at ballornuthin@gmail.com.  All created Ball or Nuthin' content is the sole property of T Lamont. Read more from this author