I like the Florida Gators football squad. I have for about the past 15 years. Unfortunately, they lost to the Auburn Tigers on Saturday night in a game which they should have won. With the game played in Gainesville, then #4-ranked Florida was heavily favored.
A few years back, such a shocking loss would have sent me into fits of frustration and malaise for the better part of the week. I would avoid the college football headlines for at least a couple of days. However, when this game ended before midnight on Saturday, I just shrugged my shoulders, smiled, and headed home. I didn’t throw anything, be it a pillow, remote control, or tantrum.
Am I now just a casual fan, tuning in to see the snazzy uniforms and hoping to catch a flashy play? No, I am still a devoted follower, reading the news and rumors all week, getting giddy as Saturday approaches. But I think in my increasing age, I’ve realized that Gator football (and sports, in general) pales in comparison to the really good stuff in life.
There are much better and bigger things that require my time and energy. My relationship with Jesus. My marriage. The little guy. The work and dreams that God has put before me.
I still follow the Gators, but I won’t give them the emotional foothold that they used to have in my life. It’s sweet because I can revel in the victories and championships and just shrug off the losses. Now, that’s the way to be a fan.
photo: Doug Finger, Gainesville Sun
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