The Wie circus does annoy me, but I feel genuinely sorry for this girl. I do not think M Wie withdrew, but rather "Team Wie" pulled out, knowing that 88+ was inevitable. I'm sorry, but the withdrawal was not the "smart thing" to do - it was unethical and dishonest, but it does appear that the move was not initiated by Michelle.

I have gone from being irritated at the very mention of Michelle's name, to feeling some sympathy for her. I'm the father of a young girl and it is painful for me to see how Michelle's being worked for the glory of others - what we're seeing is almost Dickensian.

I just hope that when Michelle matures into being her own person, she pursues the career which is correct for her.