BossHog wrote:'Fan' is an abbreviated form of 'fanatic'... which is defined as follows: marked by excessive enthusiasm and often intense uncritical devotion ... see those last 3 words... that means that while fans ARE fans... not everyone who cheers for a team is a truly a 'fan'.
I agree with you very much on this point, Boss. At times, there is a true sense of belonging when you support a team or a coach to the bitter end--even when (and especially if) you know that he/they aren't the ones that are going to do it. Kind of like standing on board the Titanic, holding a firm salute, as she plunges into icy waters. You know, stiff upper lip and all that; Skins always: right or wrong; I'll watch every painful moment because I'd rather have that than nothing; and the such. I personally feel that having an even unquestioning confidence in the Skins is an admirable trait. That's why every year, at the beginning of the season, I endure my friends laughing at me because I honestly predict that the Skins will make it to the playoffs/superbowl. And I mean it: every year.
Now, having said that, a few disclaimers.
Obviously, I, like BH, am not judging anyone with my comments. This is a thread that is poking at what it is to be a fan. I happen to think that unwavering, and even unquestioning, devotion to the team, including their bad decisions, is admirable--this is why I am the fan that I am. Yes, it means that I was one of the guys who was actually a little--and I mean
slightly disappointed when Spurrier resigned (but I got over that rather quickly). It also means I was standing by Gibbs' decision to play Brunell till the moment Patrick came in. Yeah, I look like a dumb sheep. But that's what I choose--I find it the more noble path.
I'd rather be the guy nursing his beer verrry slowly when the clock has expired and the Skins have lost, blank stare on the face and the week surely ruined. I like being that guy who still believes even when its stupid to do so. I like believing that Brunell could do it coming into Sunday's game.
Others disagree--anyone could see that just by reading more than one post on this board. Everyone is entitled to being a fan the way that they wish. I don't think myself better than anyone, and I think myself probably worse than most. If I live to have half the knowledge, patience, and wisdom of welch, I could die a happy Skins fan. That's just my
on why I choose to support the Skins the way that I do.
