Growing up in a previous British Colony, our choice of sport was cricket. Sitting in Ladies Members stand, watching a one-day match between the West Indies and England was a student’s dream. Not only were you missing school, you were hanging with family and friends, eating everything and chatting during the game. Your focus only interrupted with a “How’s that!” yell from the pitch when a possible wicket was taken.
If you grew up anywhere in colonized world, you love cricket. Last week, the company I work for rented a box in the Rogers Center and took us all to see a baseball game. I felt just like a kid skipping school. I did not think I would have any interest in baseball but it sure would be better than staring at spreadsheets for 8 hours.
It was not just better – it was fabulous. The kids, the mascot, the music, the food, the hot sun and the CN tower against a blue sky…. and oh yes, the baseball game was good too! The game is quick moving; it is made to entertain. I still don’t have the rules down but I was lucky to see a home run and a grand slam (I think).
The point is – give something new a chance. If you like sports, get familiar with the Raptors, Blue Jays and the Maple Leafs. They are our home teams in Toronto. Going to this baseball game gave me the same feeling I had as a kid, seeing the kids enjoy the day off school with a new sport in a new country …strangely made me feel at home.
What’s next, maybe a hockey game in the ACC – look for me in the ‘nose bleed’ seats (high up)!
How about you? Any cool new experiences?
Are you a stereotype?
