Saturday, July 07, 2007

The Apocalypse is Upon Us

Has the apocalypse come upon us?

Boston fans have a reputation for sophistication, and a mean spirit. Maybe we're not Philadelphia fans booing Santa Claus, but we've had more than our share of negativity moments. Local fans tend to have the cannibalistic maternal instincts of a new hamster mother. Nitwit radio dominates the airwaves, with the morning princes (Dennis and Callahan) formerly suspended for racist remarks, leading the sarcasm. Callahan remains on the DL with a laryngeal problem.

But maybe a new day has dawned for Bostonians. Surely an eleven game cushion in the AL Least helps, but as surely as Turdus migratorius signals springtime, recent events make you wonder.

This week, fans joined a disabled singer, struggling to find his way through the National Anthem. Their voices supported his, allowing him to recover and complete the anthem prior to the Sox game.

Later fans encouraged (note: did not cheer in derision or mock) struggling shortstop Julio Lugo, who then delivered a key single to plate a pair of runs against Sox nemesis Scott Kazmir. Not another summertime Kazmir sweater for Bostonians that night. Lugo, mired below the Mendoza line, seemed genuinely touched by support.

What we'll need to watch for is the "Yankees $%&#" cheers, shirts, hats and buttock tattoos disappear from our presence. When class and sophistication replace crassness, vulgarity, and boorishness at "America's Most Beloved Ballpark", then we'll know the Parousia awaits. I'm not holding my breath.

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