Umm....I Love Sports!!/My Playoff Predictions.

The process of putting thoughts and feelings into words can be complicated and somewhat tasking. The complication and confusion is multiplied when the thoughts and feelings are about things that an individual truly cares about. In such an instance, you'd want to do the thoughts some justice and make sure that the words you choose fully interprets and expresses the depth and magnitude of what is surging through your mind. In this day and age, the way people think has been going through a metamorphosis.

Now, my fellow vicarious athletes; I know you are wondering why I am rambling about thoughts and feelings that relate to the grand scheme of things outside the realm of sports. Well, the simple truth is that it is all connected. How many of you use sports as a medium more than just for entertainment purposes. A simple get away from your reality. A recluse from whatever you are going through. Sports has become more of an escape because it provides a temporary "numbing" effect on us all. For an average approximation of two to three hours during watching or participation in a variety of sporting events, you will find that nothing related to your problems or triumphs crosses you mind. You become totally engulfed in the feats of the professional athletes that are vivaciously competing on a stage before your eyes. Then there are the times when you yourself are completely captivated through participation. Whether you are playing a sport to stay in shape, to show off your skills or to simply bond with old or new friends. The fact remains that it provides a temporary mental getaway that can only be surpassed by going on vacation to a sunny location with lots of sand and water. Well...at least in my opinion.

This brings me to my point. I have found that as I continue to grow both mentally and physically that almost everything that matters to me is related to sports. Naturally, those that know me well know that God, Family and Friends are important to me but they also know that I think, breathe and eat sports. Everything about it makes me feel good on the inside. The competition, the camaraderie, the wins and the losses. The heartbreak when you favorite team loses and the excitement you feel when your team wins it all. It shapes and builds certain values that almost no other activity can provide to an individual. Teamwork, Confidence, perseverance, timeliness, patience and hard work a just a few of the character traits that being involved in sports can provide.

Alright people, I think I have said just about enough of this. This silly attempt at the philosophy of sports and how nice it makes me feel. Now back to the usual vicarious athlete in me.

The real reason I am feeling this way is because the playoffs is just around the corner in two of the four major sporting leagues in North America. The NFL is currently in hibernation right now but the 2009 draft is just around the corner. The season is just starting for the boys of summer and I must say that it's really exciting to be watching Baseball again!!!
GO JAYS GO!!!

Hockey fans are growing their playoff beards and are planning their days around their favorite teams schedules. They are making sure that their schedule is clear for the up coming evening games. Dudes are calling their boys and booking tables and booths at sports bars in advance for the weekend games.

Basketball heads are excited to watch the match ups. The uncertainty within the almost certain. Los Angeles Lakers will play Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Finals.........(we'll see). Since I fall into this category; I know I'll be meeting up with the guys to watch the NBA playoffs. Albs, A-Ho, Brooks and the rest of the lads. The location will most like be at our usual sports watering hole. Drinks will flow, chicken wings and nachos will be devoured. Insults (in good fun of course) will be tossed back and forth and compliments (fake ones of course) will be passed around. We will watch athletes take their level of play to the highest peak of competition.

You must be thinking: "Goodness gracious....will you get to your predictions already!!!"

If you are a true sports nut like I am and have been watching or playing sports since you were a little one, then patience is one of the virtues that sports should have taught you by now. The NBA Playoffs will start on Saturday. My in depth round by round predictions will be made before then.

Until then, go back to your painful reality.

; )

Sportacularly Yours,

The Vicarious Athlete