It’s hard to believe that in all the illustrious years that the Bulls, Blackhawks, Bears, Cubs, and White Sox have shared this great city, they have failed to share something else; October. Pending a (probable) Sox meltdown, one of the most famous sports cities in the world will finally have all is favorite sons representing it during the most important month of the year. Sure, the Bulls only play two regular season games during the month. Okay, there is a strong chance the Bears will only have three wins by the time November rolls around, and yes I know, the only way I’ll get to see all five teams in the same week is if magically all the stars align and we can finally have that “Red Line” series everyone has always dreamed about, but seriously its better than having to watch other people have all the fun.
Being a Chicago fan, I’ve learned three things:
1. First place one year and Last place next. Though many have tried to explain it, it’s almost better to expect it in Chicago.
2. Don’t get cocky and don’t get greedy in this city. Enjoy them while we got um, because while it may rain, and it may pour in Chicago, the only thing that means is you’ll need an umbrella on your walk home from the “L”. (Editors note: Yes, I remember the Jordan era. But he was freaking Michael Jordan. Until Chicago stops dwelling in the world of Urlachers, Dyes, and Sori-assholes, I will stay optimistically pessimistic.)
And who could forget…..
3. “Wait till next year.” Even before the final minutes of any Chicago team’s season, you’re bound to hear some idiot jinx said team with those fateful words; words which have become etched in the pits of our brains, hearts and DNA. Four words that intend to bring hope, but actually solidify that all hope is lost; that we are once again losers, and it will remain that way until opening day.
Considering all this, it only seems natural that as a true Chicago fan, I document this great occurrence. I finally get to revel in the fact that I can watch (on television; i.e. Go Hawks) five different teams. I want to remember every painful strike-out, every draw play run on third and long, and every time Kirk Hinrich has two fouls during the first quarter, during the best fall a fan in Chicago could ask for. This is going to be an October to remember for sure, and unless I write it all down, by the time we see another October like this, I’ll be to old or more likely dead, to remember it clearly.
