Once in a while, after a long, exhausting day, Americans find themselves seeking an escape. Given the events of the last couple of weeks, any possible way to take minds off what has occurred is a positive for anyone involved.
Professional sports have always existed as a way for the public to escape the issues of day-to-day life. Let's face it, this has not been the first time the news has been depressing. Sports offer hope, something to root for and analyze without some life or death consequence. With the history behind the major organizations reaching back hundreds of years, they take Americans back to the eras of prosperity and happiness.
Sports are ingrained within the collective consciousness. I cannot name a single peer that did not participate in sports in their youth. It built teamwork and sportsmanship skills. It created memories and friendships.
About two weeks ago, the Chicago Cubs did something that had not been done in 108 years. Over the summer, the Cleveland Cavaliers did something that had never been done before. The world came together in Brazil to celebrate the best in physical ability. Last winter, the Denver Broncos reestablished the mantra "defense wins championships". What unites these all events is more than just championship events, but also their ability to unify the United States.
What does this? One would think that allegiances to a certain team or sport would drive wedges among fanbases, creating even more divisiveness than we already have. But we bond over the events that unfold. We reflect on our own youth and their ties to what we watch on screen. Children tell tales of their endeavors that even the oldest in our country can feel a sense of nostalgia.
Two weeks ago, when the Chicago Cubs were making history, I watched the final outs of Game Seven with my hallmates. While my hall was fairly split on which side they were rooting for, they all knew that regardless of the outcome that we were watching something special. When the final out of the game was recorded, the hall exploded into shouts and laughter. Even though I was pulling for the Indians, I was more than content to be witness to history.
And even though that season has come and passed, there are plenty of other sporting outlets available. Despite the controversy surrounding the sport, the NFL still dominates the Sundays of millions nationwide. And with the NHL and NBA seasons just starting to pick up, there is always a game to watch when one needs a break.
So if you're ever feeling down, having a rough go or just need to get away for a little bit, there's nothing wrong with catching a ball game. Enjoy America's pasttimes, and you'll be engaging in a generations-old tradition.
