Ode to Artest

Trolling my way through the internet I came across a facebook group that is purely devoted to hating Ron Artest. I can understand some animosity to the rather eccentric Queens native forward, but hate seems a little strong. Can't we all just get along. Apparently not. The facebook page puts forward a case a Ron being nothing more than a violent thug that is, "detrimental to the world of basketball". Ok, so Ron has had some not so stellar points in his career,most notably the infamous brawl, but he is definitely not detrimental to the league. I find it difficult to hate Artest because, well, I think he's brilliant. Ron is a rather complicated man. He has a degree in mathematics, yes that's right a bachelors in mathematics. I can barely count to ten using my fingers, so I am instantly impressed. The brains are there, but Artest seems to be constantly battling with what can only be discribed as an insane little imp on his shoulder and I wouldn't have it any other way.
Are some of Ron Artest's actions questionable? Absolutely! But they are not malicious actions. His intesity may get the better of him at times but it also gives him character. From yelling "no soap, no soap" from the shower or having an iphone that Kevin Ding describes as "shattered" to yelling at reporters "acknowledge me"! or my
personal favorite conducting an interview of himself. That's right Ron Artest interviewed Ron Artest.
Maybe it's my twisted humor but I think these actions ar quite frankly hilarious.There is no vendetta or evil intent. Calling a former defensive player of the year detrimental to basketball is a little bit extreme.
I think Ron Artest brings humor to the Lakers, it's better than an interview with Pau, who, seems to be reading his answers from the book 'media for dummies'.

Ron is auctioning off his championship ring for charity, so there is a caring side. Can you guess the benifitting charity, that's right a charity for mental health. What else do you expect from a player who thanked his psychiatrist along with God and his parents for winning the championship.
I think we should all just lighten up and thank Ron for being Ron. Doing the crazy stuff so you don't have to!