Categories: uncategorized
Date: 07 April 2007 23:27:13
In this time of true enlightenment, where one's mind and indeed identity may undergo some form of change, I need to let others of my faith know the following.
I have become apostate.
I speak not of my adherence to the true faith of Christianity, but to another significant belief system to which I have long held close. That of the Fully Sardonic Church of Sport Hating. Yes, my now Sport Spectating Brethren, I have sorely mocked thee for I have not indeed 'got' the whole 'thing' about sport. For that I feel an appropriate level of shame. It was the cynicism of the ignorant.
For today, on this glorious spring day in my adoptive country of Wales, I acted on a whim. I entered one of the local temples of fervent prayer, cries of adulation and groans of sorrow - Pontypool Rugby Ground. And lo, Pooler did play most magnificently and I did get most of the rules. Verily I did sit on the edge of my seat and jump up yelling on scoring of the sacred tries. It was with great gladness that I did exit the ground, with my heart full of the joy of seeing 'my' team win, flanked by lifetime devotees to the faith in the persons of T&E and the Holy Father-in-Law.
Thus, I say to you all, I repent of the sins of mockery, cynicism and virlulent bile towards the faithful Sport Fans. Whilst I never will achieve the fanatical heights of some, and my conversion to the affiliated sport of football is as yet undecided, I am happy to accept the accolade of Fairweather Supporter - and wear it with pride.
For in Sport Supporting, pride in your team, your community and a game well played is far from sinful, it is indeed a Worthy Thing. And the joy of yelling such pious phrases and 'Go on lads!' at full volume is an act for which I feel no shame, for I am among fellow vocalists and it is, to my mind, now a form of Fun.
I apologise to those of my former faith and hope for them that they, too, may see the light and come to understand they joys of this wondrous pastime. Fanaticism is optional, as is violence and downright stupid behaviour. However, to enjoy a win is mandatory.
Suffice to say - I did! ;)
(Yeah, I know, Pooler will also lose. But vicarious sorrow is to be expected and, in the end, it is still Only A Game)