Fifty-six thousand fans closely assemble into a stadium filled with people of all ages, shapes, colors, and persuasions, just as it should be. Twenty-two gladiators appear on freshly manicured lush green grass bearing the colors of their respective clans, taking in the chants and songs of their beloved similarly clad followers.
The kick-off whistle blows with that, almost a signal to alter one’s state and reveal a different persona. One filled with hate, vitriol behavior, and sectarian dividing emotion rush forward in unison. It is the Old Firm derby with the league’s title at stake. Words quickly flow out of people’s mouths as they stand red-faced screaming abuse, with little control of emotions and almost no thought.
There is tremendous passion and excitement in sporting rivalries, yet one wonders to what end when one observes the behaviors on display. Do we recall why we are here and what our purpose is?
The pleasure of the game and the love of one’s team are noble undertakings that should fill us with enjoyment and satisfaction. But sometimes you win, and sometimes you won’t. So then why the awful behavior, the words one should never utter, in public or private? Why is revulsion based on something you are so far removed from and, for many, lack any knowledge of its foundation? Is it because others dressed like you are doing that, or does someone else suggest you should think with such negativity?
Can we consider the underlying reason why we participate in some activities, or look at ourselves and wonder where such dislike comes from and what does it say about ourselves and our overall state? If we permit passion to cloud our sensibilities, have we gone too far? This is not only restricted to these sporting events yet appears in daily rituals that individuals perform. The level of discontent, misery, and unpleasantries is often prevalent and appears with little thought or instigation. The fuse is easily lit. We have seemingly lost control of our thinking as we rush to deep-rooted baseless prejudices and biases.
Taking a step back and asking ourselves ‘why’ may be appropriate and allow us to discover and recall why we engage and participate, hopefully for a good reason. There is no purpose in doing or remaining in something when we gain little satisfaction, progression, or personal growth, even for brief moments, let alone extended periods. As we choose to be that kind, loving and caring person, we must accept we are this person too.
If any activity or people brings a reaction contrary to who we would like to be and fills us with ill feelings or discontent, is this the activity best suited to who we choose to be. For example, do we choose to admit that our thoughts are not our own and instead we are the stooges of others and carry the torch of their grudges and grievances? Or can we be the voice of calm and show that we too can support and enjoy, yet be the same person with our values, not those of others, completely intact.
