EXCLUSIVE: Michael Lohan Writes Open Letter To Billy Ray Cyrus: 'When I Look At What You're Going Through, I Am Forced To See Myself'
Feb. 18 2011, Published 5:26 a.m. ET
Billy Ray Cyrus raised eyebrows earlier this week when he told GQ that his daughter Miley's star-making gig on Hannah Montana -- and Satan -- have destroyed his family, and that he's desperate to get his famous offspring "sheltered from the storm."
Michael Lohan understands: The man knows what it's like to see your little girl try her hand at show business and explode into a bigger star anyone could've imagined, only to see the rug pulled out in the wake of tabloid scandals.
That's why the father of embattled Hollywood starlet Lindsay Lohan has penned this heartfelt letter to his fellow famous dad, offering up wisdom, advice and sympathy for the Achy Breaky Heart singer in this RadarOnline.com exclusive.
Billy Ray,
Oh My God! Am I seeing and reliving almost the same exact situations, scrutiny, pain and willingness to sacrifice yourself, for the sake of your family?
As hard and frustrating as it is, believe me when I say, it's a road worth traveled. Even if it may have its’ bumps and grinds along the way.
As I was raised, there is nothing like the love a man has for his family nor is there any length he will go to save or protect them.
The hardest part is, experiencing the pain that comes from the resistance of the very one(s) you are trying to save.
The one(s) you love so much, and are willing to die for, are too blinded by the "bright light" and people who use our loved one(s) while everyone thinks you are supposed to sit back and pretend it goes unseen.
As I don't see you as any one of the three monkeys with their hands over their ears, eyes and mouth. I, nor you, are the type of men who will sit back and do or say nothing at the risk of being persecuted.
When I look at what you are going through, I am forced to see myself. Two men who know what divorce and alienation, have done to our families.
Why I ask, if it so hard for our wives, children and even the public, to see that all we are trying to do, is to be there for our family and try to make things right?
Isn't it clear that the answer is so easy but the people who don't matter, make it so hard? While all we want is our family and normal lives back, others forsake that for so much more.
Why is it that people don't put themselves in or shoes? And say to themselves, “How would I feel if that was happening to me?”
The sad part is, they don't and they probably never will. But that doesn't mean that men like you and I should ever give up.
While we can't change the world, our example just might touch a few, and maybe even the one(s) we seek to save.
To that end, I want to say, that I know what you are going through, I feel your pain and frustration, and I also admire your strength, dedication and love, for your family in the name of God.
Best and God Bless,
Michael Lohan
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