What Competative Sports are REALLY About

I think that it is sad that over the last several decades, the people of the US have become antagonistic toward the winning attitude Americans have historically been known for. We strive to be the best at everything that we do and if we fail, we always get back up and try harder until, sometimes after numerous failures, we finally succeed. I think that Gen. George S. Patton said it best in a speech he made to his Soldier's of the Third Army before the Invasion of Europe in World War II.

"Men, this stuff that some sources sling around about America wanting out of this war, not wanting to fight, is a crock of bull****. Americans love to fight, traditionally. All real Americans love the sting and clash of battle. You are here today for three reasons. First, because you are here to defend your homes and your loved ones. Second, you are here for your own self respect, because you would not want to be anywhere else. Third, you are here because you are real men and all real men like to fight. When you, here, everyone of you, were kids, you all admired the champion marble player, the fastest runner, the toughest boxer, the big league ball players, and the All-American football players. Americans love a winner. Americans will not tolerate a loser. Americans despise cowards. Americans play to win all of the time. I wouldn't give a hoot in hell for a man who lost and laughed. That's why Americans have never lost nor will ever lose a war; for the very idea of losing is hateful to an American."

This is the true spirit of America. That is why I was so glad to see this article about the Dodger's starting catcher Russell Martin. His attitude makes him popular with the fans as much as his performance. Just read the article and you will see what I mean.


Russell Martin Achieves Stardom in Second Big-league Season

The whole reason that we get so much satisfaction from watching sports is we love to see the Spurs sweep the Cavs or the Colts win their first Superbowl since they were in Baltimore. We like to see them win and when our team loses, we get a sinking, churning feeling in our guts, that accompanies our sadness and regret. This competition is what drives us, makes us better, and keeps us from settling with mediocrity.

COMPETITION IS AMERICAN.