Perspective

I realize I tend to get a little irrational about the game of baseball. I used to imagine sticking my head in the front door and slamming it closed repeatedly would hurt less than 1986 and 2003.

Then, something life altering happened. 2004. Down 3 games to none, I had Kevin Millar hollering "Don't let us win tonight." Curt Schilling and his bloody sock, Dave Roberts stealing second, Slappy knocking the ball out of Bronson's glove, and Big Papi cementing his status as a Red Sox legend and before I can take a breath they have swept the Cardinals and 86 years of pain and misery are gone.

Throw in 2007 and it's like the past never happened.

Yeah, 2005 was tough and 2006 blew chunks but my team got to game 7 of the ALCS last year and pretty much for the past 6 years it's been a great time to be a Red Sox fan. Contending team every year, ownership who cares yet realizes it's not the NFL and you can't win every game, and a rabid fan base that shows up day after day.

As I watched the Yankees celebrate a 4 game sweep tonight, I was strangely calm. Yes, I wish the Red Sox could have taken the game tonight. And yes, I hate the fact the Yankees and their fans are riding such a high.

But I've got a wonderful woman who's been by my side for 17 years, 3 great, albiet insane children who provide me endless joy. I've got a great house, a job, everyone I love is healthy, and my pantry and fridge are full.

I think I'm freaking blessed.

And as much as I'd love to see the Red Sox win the World Series every year, those two little demons I'm hugging in that picture?

THAT is what it's all about.

The rest is just gravy.

All that said?

It wouldn't harsh my mellow if the Sox swept Detroit the next 4 days.

I'm just sayin'.