Growing up in Greater Boston, there was an imperative resident obligation to support the local sports teams and naturally I obliged. Despite the Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics and Bruins distinctive combined haplessness over the 18 years I called Boston home, I was apparently hooked forever. Fortunately they all improved dramatically after I left and have delivered more Championships (12!) than any reasonable sports fan could possibly ask for since I moved to New York 22 years ago.
Today is my 46th birthday; Bruins visiting Islanders so I wrangled the whole family to the arena and witnessed an incredible 5-4 shootout Bruins win! Watching this dramatic back and forth, B’s coming back from every deficit, with my kids beside me, cheering for my team (and maybe their forever team?) is an instant all-time favorite sports experience. Often my allegiance and commitment leaves me with a sickening dull emptiness and mournful resignation but sometimes my emotional entanglement can produce transcendent moments that define the course of my life and perhaps that of my offspring; there are times after bitter losses when I want to warn them away from any involvement in sports fandom whatsoever, but sharing a beautiful sports experience with my kids or father or brother, sister, wife or friends will always be one of my favorite entertainment and bonding experiences.
