For those of you turned off by the over-importance given to sports in our culture, give this post at least a paragraph or two before discarding.
Last night marked one of my favorite days of the year: opening day of Minnesota Twins baseball. An eternal optimist and avid fan, I look forward to opening day because I believe (really) that each year the Twins might win it all. Barring that, I’m happy because I know that opening days marks the beginning of listening to games on the radio while I mow the lawn or sitting with my two sons and my wife at the game, eating hot dogs and having four hours together. What’s not to like?
But this year, baseball might even be important. Frankly, it seems as though our collective default mode has turned to stress and worry. And for good reason. We’re living through a peculiar time, a time that thwaps us on the head and tells us daily that we’re in the midst of something historical and generally scary. From melting polar ice caps to wars abroad to our crippled economy, as soon as we open our brains to a new day, we’ve got a lot to worry about. Give it enough months in this mode, and consternation sort of becomes a daily reality.
So if that’s true, then living life beyond those confines is going to be a choice. Worry is going to find us, so we might have to go find relaxation. Tough times are going to surround us, so we might have to be active in seeking pleasure and release.
That means that what might have once been frivolous can take on increased importance in our experience of these unique times. I think of this when I listen to good music or go for a morning run or spend time with friends or watch my boys play in the backyard. These experiences aren’t luxuries or superfluous. They’re completely critical.
It’s far too easy to think, “With things as they are, how can I take the time to relax?” Or, “I’ve got too much on my mind and too much to do to take the time to hang out with my friends.” Of course, a moment’s pause tells us that it is exactly because things are as they are that we need to increase the quality and amount of these nurturing and fulfilling experiences.
As for me? I’m looking forward to 161 more baseball games and real spring thaw and wearing the base paths bare in my backyard. In “times like these,” how couldn’t I?
Nathan –
I think you hit the nail right on the head as to why baseball is more then just a game. It helps folks return to a simpler time and place free from the numerous worries and (over)stresses of the 21st century. I’ve taken my love of the sport even farther and as an adult rediscovered my childhood love of collecting baseball cards. This has taken the enjoyment and stress relief I get from baseball to a whole new level. The best part is that I’ve been able to share my love of the diamond with my sons – thus allowing them to learn positive ways through which they can deal with stress.
Baseball is SO important for our culture. Humans have a competitive streak, and pro sports gives that a safe and fun channel. As a civilized culture we need those channels for our energies and need to align ourselves with a "greater good" (the home team).
Richard
Registry Booster review
I just went over to a friend’s house to watch the World Series. We weren’t rooting for a particular team, but it was just about watching baseball and hanging out. I loved it. It’s part of our American culture.
Sally
RegCure review
Thanks for taking the time to discuss this, I feel strongly about it and love learning more on this topic. If possible, as you gain expertise, would you mind updating your blog with more information? It is extremely helpful for me.
TRA posse Belvédère de l’ONU moncler o non! Prix ??par Moncler puo essere divertente, emozionante e avventuroso. S? R par le mantenere aspettative realistiche, Piumini moncler Pero, la di possibilità trovare l’ONU moncler sono moins.Moncler Chersi Woman No non sai viennent negozio en ligne par l’ONU comprar vero Moncler prima che Denaro il une sufficienza, Vale la Pena par Voi di acquistare l’ONU Moncler spedizione outlet.Free par Voi!
Post new comment