I think it is fair to say that everyone has their hobbies and passions outside of work. I am no different. Anybody that knows me knows I am a big sports fan. That being said, this past week could not have come at a better time. A post-Easter week involving Opening Day of baseball season and The Masters provides a quick an easy way to relax a little after the busyness of the church leading up to and on Easter Sunday.
Growing up when I did, it is no surprise that the Braves are my favorite sports team by far. I grew up in the streak of 14 straight division titles from 1991-2005 (no winner in 1994 - players strike). Basically, the Braves won the division every year from the time I turned 9 years old until I was 23. Even with recent struggles over the last few seasons, I have not abandoned my team and Opening Day brings the promise of a new season and new hope (strangely enough right after Easter which does that exact same for us as Christians). It is the time of year for peanuts, popcorn and crackerjacks. A time for a hot dog and Coke. A time for strikeouts and home runs. Head out to a ballpark near you and enjoy the National Pastime. Smell the grass and hear the crack of the bat. I know I am going to and sooner the better.
The other big event for me this week is the Masters. Now, I am a golfer, but that is not the only reason the Masters is important. As a Georgia boy, this is one of our signature events. I know people in Georgia that don't even like golf but love the Masters. It is a part of our culture here. I have had the opportunity to attend the event twice. The first was in 1997 on Saturday when Tiger Woods ran away from the field en route to setting the tournament scoring record. The second was a Monday practice round prior to the tournament where the course was just being touched for the first time in weeks and was in perfect condition. The Masters is a special time at the dawning of spring. The simple beauty of the Augusta National Golf Club (home of the Masters) nestled back amongst the tall Georgia pines is the setting. The roars of the gallery and picturesque red, pink and white blooms of the new opened azaleas marks a moment of peace and enjoyment for all who are a part of it.
As you can see, there is a great importance and role in my played by the events taking place this week. I know we all have these times for ourselves. Feel free to share them or just enjoy mine with me. Speaking of which, I think it is about time to go grab a Coke (nothing else for a Georgia boy) because the Masters is on and the Braves are close to starting. See you with the fans.
John
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment