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Celebrations, Bonds & Memories: Sports & My Family
Celebrations, Bonds & Memories: Sports & My Family
By Sensei Tom Dubitsky
January 11, 2012
I love this time of year. The NFL Playoffs have started. I always look forward to talking with my Dad and family back east about the games, especially if the New England Patriots are playing. This year, the Patriots are the # 1 seed in the AFC and seemingly have the easiest road to the Super Bowl. My Dad and I will speak for days leading up to the game, during the game and after.
I grew up just south of Boston, MA and began watching Bruins hockey with my grandparents while still in footie pajamas. Before being shuffled off to bed, I shared in the excitement of the 1st period, cheering on our hometown team while eating popcorn or a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup or two. During the playoffs however, bedtime rules did not apply. Thanks Mom.
Summers were spent following the Red Sox on TV or radio. Of course going to Fenway Park was a big deal for all of us, and still is to this day. This past August, I met up with my Dad and older brother for a Friday night game. The Sox got shellacked (Boston term, meaning lost “wicked bad”). Still, we had a great night.
I have so many great memories and proud moments as a sports fan. A Boston sports fan. My family bonded through sports. I learned about heroes (Marvin Hagler) and villains (anything in a Yankee cap), loyalty and heartbreak. A big game, like the Lakers vs. Celtics in the 1984 NBA Finals, meant everyone getting together and ordering Chinese food or pizza. In victory, we celebrated together. And defeat? Unthinkable, but made easier with an egg roll and another serving of pork-fried rice.
It’s important to always have things to look forward to. And they do not have to be big things, just simple moments when you can call your Dad and talk about a ballgame. When I wear my Red Sox hat, sometimes I’m 7 again. I ride my bike without a helmet, play with Legos only when it rains, and sneak my older cousin’s KISS records into my basement and play them out of earshot from my Mom.