Home

Last night, after 8 painful months, I got to go home.  My home away from home, anyway.  Wake Forest hosted the Flames from Liberty and barely escaped with a 20-17 win.  At least I think they won.  I had to ask my friends twice, even though I was there with them.

Now, I know it's Labor Day Weekend.  No, it wasn't the most glamorous of opponents.  Finally, I understand that there was rain (we just don't do well with weather events, do we, Winston-Salem?).  However, I was expecting to walk in to BB&T Field and let the feeling of football wash over me as the Deacons eviscerated their guests.

I guess I should have known it would be a long night by the pictures I took pregame.  Look at the cloudy grey haze.

Maybe I'm just spoiled.  After all, I've spent the last three Friday nights immersed in the prep football experience.  I've been introduced to things such as "theme nights" for students.  I've been exposed to just how many parent volunteers are a part of Friday Night.   Most of all, I've enjoyed the passion and energy brought by these high school student-athletes, no matter the score.

On top of everything else, I had the opportunity to meet two high school students with resume's more impressive than some college graduates.  Athletes, class officers, club presidents and National Honor Society...and they say there's little hope for the future.  Humbug.

Ultimately, I enjoyed the experience of being "home" last night.  However, I truly realized that I'm not lying to you or myself when I say, "it's about the experience".  The game and effort last night was dreadful but I was surrounded by my best friends, listening to the band play, watching the fireworks after touchdowns and smiling as the kids fell over one another chasing flying t-shirts.

It's football season.  Life is good.  And there are two games on television today. 

Have a great day and be grateful for all that is good in our little corner of the world.

John