Two nights ago our 7-year old son asked the question of the moment.
“Dad,” he said, “Who do you think will win the Super Bowl?”
My husband made eye contact with him.
“The Eagles.”
“Why?” the boy asked. I knew he was looking for an answer about strategy or tactics; our little guy is into that sort of thing.
My husband narrowed his eyes.
“It is the will of God.”
There was a pause.
Then – raucous laughter from our son, along with the rest of us.
My husband smirked and went back to eating his soup.
That exchange?
Something about it strikes me as…
Oh. So. Philadelphia.
Do we really believe it is the will of God for the Eagles to win?
Not exactly.
But will they?
Darn right.
In our home, we are loyal to Philadelphia.
It’s a family tradition.
Philadelphia is often misunderstood. Some people just don’t get the mix of wry, sardonic humor and subtle faith. They call it brusque and cold, but however you see it, the city and its people are the genuine article, a place unto itself. And it’s a place I love, because it loved me first.
I spent my high school years in the suburbs of Philly, having moved there from Florida, and upon my arrival I wasn’t sure what I’d find. Blessedly, I was warmly welcomed by my peers, and that was important for me at a time when life didn’t feel so stable.
You find that when you’re “inside” Philadelphia – when you enter its homes, schools, and neighborhoods long enough to take your coat off and hang around for awhile. There might not be many newcomers, but a newcomer can be accepted. You can read a little about that here – where I also briefly talk about Philly’s famous food – the cheese steak.
Philly also gave me my partner for life – my husband of almost 20 years – as well as his entire loving family, and many friends who are close enough to be family too.
And so, without getting mushy and listing each person individually (a very long list), I’ll just say this: I cheer for the Eagles because I am loyal to MY Philadelphia – all of the people in and around that particular city who have shared with me the formative experiences that over many decades have created the life I cherish today.
How about you? Where do your loyalties lie and WHY?
I’m willing to bet that if you have an allegiance, it’s to a person, or people, or a place, that nurtured you and gave you hope. And that’s a good reason to continue to be faithful.
So consider Who you ally yourself with. And choose well.
Oh – and on Sunday – choose VERY well. Fly Eagles Fly!
