Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Super Bowl

My prediction is the Saints will top the Colts by a fourth quarter field goal, final score 24-21.

Care to differ?

I also predict the best Super Bowl ad will be from the U.S. Census Bureau, with Anheuser-Busch InBev coming in a close second place. The pro-life ad from Focus on the Family should generate some interesting and thought-provoking responses too.

Who is featured at this year's half-time festivities? You're correct. (Sounds like the start of an old Abbot and Costello routine, doesn't it?) The Who features aging rockers who appeal to an aging audience in the hopes some will stay around to watch the performance. At least we won't have to worry about a costume malfunction . . .

I like the Super Bowl, even if my favorite teams don't play. It gives America something to talk about instead of trillion-dollar deficits, double-digit unemployment, and dirty politics. For half a day Americans are united in eating guacamole, drinking their beverage of choice, and cheering a football team they hardly know. And all this is done while watching the commercials and TiVo-ing the game. We'll sing along with "Pinball Wizard," "My Generation," and "I Can See For Miles." Yes, the day will be fun.

The Super Bowl has become the ultimate man-day. Why? Well, on this day a fair number of guys plow down pounds of junk food and drink ridiculous amounts of whatever they like -- all the while cheering loudly as they confidently declare their opinions about commercials, commentators, game plans, and anything else related to the event. The man with the biggest TV will have the most friends, and the one who brings the most beverages will be the one crowned with the seat of honor -- up front with the speakers cranked.

For myself, I see something a little different on this day.

I'd like to be surrounded by my sons, son-in-laws, and grandsons for the game. For this would be the perfect occasion to let them see I have opinions; I have wisdom; I have convictions; and I can share on more than the game. I would cover life principles: how to be a disciple of Christ, challenges I faced and overcame, and how to handle disappointment and sorrow. For, surprising at it may sound, guys united around chips, dip, and a cold one can share from the heart lessons learned, values held, and some of life's greatest moments. I would especially want the boys around when the pro-life commercial is playing to give me an opportunity to share my Christian convictions.

Unfortunately, my sons, sons-in-law, and grandsons will be watching from their homes across state boundaries and time zones, so I will have to share another time. My last prediction -- and genuine hope -- is that next Sunday becomes a time for some quality male bonding for you. I pray you have a great day and may the best team win.

Go Saints!

2 comments :

Anonymous said...

Obviously you aren't from Indianapolis. I predict that the Colts will smack the Saints, and come "Back Home Again In Indiana" with another great victory.

Seriously, I hope it's a great game. And who every wins, I'm impressed with both of these teams. Not just because they both have great 2010 game records. But because from what I've heard from both teams, they have great attitudes, and are both great ambassadors for their cities and for the sport.

I've seen so many sports and entertainment representatives who are self centered, foul mouthed, and generally not good roll models. But I believe these guys are not that way. In fact, I have heard numerous positive comments from a number of the players and coaches from both teams about how God has blessed them, and how they trust Him to be with them, and how they respect the other team. It's strange how a sport that essentially is about beating the other team to a pulp, is filled with so many good roll models. Good luck to both teams. And GO COLTS!!!!!

sdiduane said...

I'm from Iowa, & there's an outstanding player on the Colt's, I follow very closely. Dallas Clark, #44, on his uniform, former Iowa Hawkeye, & named this year to the NFC allstar team. In an article in the Des Moines Register, this week, the reporter commented on his down home attitude being a calming factor. He is from a small town in rural northwest Iowa, and when he's home, he is a very down to earth man. His determination over the last several years to succeed,and his ability to use good sportsmanship on the field of play, has demonstrated an outstanding example for young men to follow.



I applaud him, & GO COLTS!!!