What has Richard Simmons done to you?

Richard Simmons has provided millions of people with hope and strength throughout the years. "Sweatin' to the Oldies" may be his signature exercise video but he has provided many people with comfort and help. Sure, he has been the butt of many jokes, partially because of his unique outfits and partially because of his special personality. However outrageous and quite frankly annoying Simmons is, nobody has to go around and insult him.

Simmons, 55, was cited for misdemeanor assault. He slapped Chris Farney, 23, almost twice the size of Simmons,and made an insulting comment about Simmons' career path at Phoenix's Sky Harbor International Airport.

The comment was not extremely offensive, in my humble opinion. For some reason I think Simmons has heard much worse throughout his career. Farney said, "Hey everybody, it's Richard Simmons. Let's Drop our bags and rock to the '50s," according to Sgt. Lauri Williams.

For Simmons to actually slap Farney, who is 6-foot-1 and 255 pounds, we should take a deeper look at what is going on inside Simmons. Maybe some anger management classes would be helpful, but I think there is more to it.

What's wrong with Simmons? He always seemed like the happiest person. I don't think anyone could have seen this one coming. For years I would see him on daytime talk shows explaining how he loves life and people and all he wants to do is help. Well, I applaud anyone who would devote their life to helping others! But who is helping Simmons?

I think it is now time that we start looking at ourselves. Instead of letting Richard Simmons look out for us, let's look out for him! Let's do for him what he has done for so many people. All we need to do is get him some more shiny outfits, some good music from a few decades ago, and maybe a good brush! I know I would be happy with that!

Let's give the man a break. What has he ever done to you? What did he ever do to Farney except go to the same airport? Nothing! Let's give Richard Simmons a break!

My suggestion is, if you see him around, don't insult him. I would complement him on his work with people! I would ask him where he got his really short shorts. Or maybe find out where you could get one of those overly sized tank tops. You know the ones with the really big holes for the arms. Let's be nice to Richard Simmons! With everything that is going on in the world today, don't pick on Simmons. There are better people to insult such as, well, I'm not going to go there because the FCC might regulate me!

You get the point though. Richard Simmons is a person too. Give him love!