But here we are now, with me being accused of using steroids and cheating the game of baseball. If I am guilty of anything, it is of being too trusting of others; wanting to see the best in everyone; and being nice to everyone. If I am considered to be ignorant because of that, then so be it.

I have chosen to live my life with a positive attitude. Yet I am accused of being a criminal and I am not supposed to be angry about that?

If I keep my emotions in check, then I am accused of not caring.

When I kept quiet at the advice of my attorney until he could find out why in the world I was being accused of these things, I was accused of having something to hide, so I am guilty.

When I did speak out, I was accused of protesting too much, so I am guilty.

People who make false accusations should not be allowed to define another person’s life. I have freely and without question shared the talents God gave me with children, young and old, and will continue to do so. I have been blessed with a will and heart that carry me on in life. I have had thousands of calls and e-mails from friends, working partners, teammates, fans, and men that have held the highest office in our country telling me to stand strong. These words are very welcomed during some very tough times for my family and me.

Do I think steroids are good for helping someone’s performance? No. In fact, I think they are detrimental. Should there be more extensive testing? Yes. I think whatever is necessary for everyone involved to satisfy themselves that it is not going on, should be done.

At the end of the day, I have been accused of doing something that I did not do.

I have been asked to prove that I did not do it. How in the world can I prove a negative?

No matter what we discuss here today, I am never going to have my name restored. I know that a lot of people want me to say that I have taken steroids and be done with it.

But I cannot in good conscience admit to doing something that I did not do; even if it would be easier to do so. That is not the type of person I am. Instead, I will try to set the record straight, and I will do so directly to Congress and under oath. I have been told that by doing this, I am subjecting myself to possible criminal prosecution. I know that some people will still think I am lying no matter what I say or do. And I know that because I’ve said that I didn’t take steroids, it will look like an attack on Senator Mitchell’s report. I am not saying Senator Mitchell’s report is entirely wrong and I am not trying to convince those who have already made up their minds based only on an allegation.

For those with an open mind, however, I am saying that Brian McNamee’s statements about me are wrong. Once again, I never took steroids or human growth hormone.

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