The Red Sox Win!

I like to think that my grandmother saw last night's game and realized that 2004 wasn't a fluke - I hope you enjoyed last night's victory, VoVo - no matter where you may be!

Now, a word about all those who I have heard bemoaning that the Red Sox are no longer those lovable losers from yesteryear. Believe me, being a runner-up consistantly is overrated. I actually remember all those bad years - my dad gave up on the Sox years ago, because they broke his heart so many times. My grandmother felt that she had personally jinxed the team, and was reluctant to go to Fenway, lest she ruin their chances to win. I spent most of my youth cheering for an organization that managed to come close, but never quite clinch the big game. And it was frustrating. Believe me, Indians and Rockies fans, we know how it feels. Some pundits now try to tell us that it is a bad thing that Boston has regained some of the luster they showed at the begining of the Modern Era - I say that they are either:
A.) those sort of folks who can't see the big picture of baseball - that it is an incredibly diverse and on-going story; one where the teams who have been in the game for over a century, will continue to wax and wane according to the various fortunes of their communities and organizations.
or,
B.) just a lot of dejected Yankees fans who are entering another Winter of Discontent (much like the popular kid at shool who doesn't understand that the world changes after graduation, and that nerdy kid, who is going on to bigger and better things, is leaving them behind).

Last night's game had a differnt feel. When the Red Sox won, I felt a wave of happiness - not the disbelief of 2004, but a genuine appreciation for the victory itself. Our Sox really worked hard against a lot of quality clubs - true Red Sox Nation will not gloat over the Indians or Rockies: both teams played their hearts out to get to where they were, and their fans were just as expectant of bringing home the trophy. In the end, I watched a Red Sox team who genuinely enjoyed playing the game, being in the run for the Series, and fed off the power of their fans.

For the past few weeks, I, personally, have taken a lot of grief from an assortment of Yankees fans, Indian supporters, and general malcontents who despise the Nation. I have quietly endured and gently chided - so, today, when I go into work with my 75-style Red Sox cap, I will quietly enjoy the moment.

Oh, and VoVo, I will be sure to raise your Red Sox banner today: for you and the team!