My sports fix

Illinois miracle year ended in disappointment and, for once, I felt fortunate for my inability to watch basketball. And, even more gratifying, is the chance to walk outside, climb the hill behind my apartment and sit with people who couldn't care less about basketball and watch a whole society stop and go unhindered by the NCAA championship game. In America, I would have planned my week around that game and the following week would have been foiled by the outcome. Still, I can't deny the slap-in-the-face irony of the Bulls and Illinois having breakthrough seasons when I cannot be along for the ride. At least not like I would like to. I've found a site to download the Bulls' games and I've been catching up on the last month. Stolly sent me a NERF hoop and I've been watching Bulls' games and re-enacting the highlights in my room- a la my childhood. Thanks Andrew. I read every game summary, try and picture the victorious smiles of my Baby Bulls as they continue to surprise the most knowing of experts. I recently purchased a package on MLB.com where I can watch every single baseball game this year because I refuse to let the White Sox further this irony. But, because I can watch, my Sox will probably have another sub-par year. Chicago sports Gods (Butkis, Jordan, Hull, Dawson- ha), what have I done to deserve this? Have I not always faithfully served your every beck and call? Oh well, I'm blacked out from the Bulls' return not only to prominence, perhaps glory but I'd rather read about them winning than watch them lose. The scary part is the thought of missing the Bulls' first Playoff series in eight years. It will be difficult to focus on teaching these kids English when my favorite young students, the Bullies, are finally taking the ultimate test, the big show- The Playoffs. I've dreamt about this for years. I take solace in knowing that many of you have been forced to listen to my endless rants about these Bulls and know you're watching, believing. If you're not on the bandwagon yet, hop on the sides and cling on because this ride isn't stopping in the first round. This is what I was talking about- enjoy it all you lucky Americans. And Chado, although VHS's don't work here, I'm still expecting you to have every minute of the Bulls' playoff run recorded for me upon my return. Thanks buddy.