You thought this would be really meaningful and deep, didn’t you? Well, it will be, but not in the way you’re thinking. On the surface, I’m not talking about being the one to trail the friend group on the way to dinner, or be the one on the end of the couch during a movie.
I’m talking about football.
Specifically, being a New England Patriots fan in Buffalo Bills territory.
There is a story behind being a Patriots fan despite living in New York City most of my life. See, there was this guy I knew…just kidding, I’m actually not going to spill. The point is, I REMAINED a Patriots fan ever since that season they won the Super Bowl—it was not BECAUSE they won, as I started following them months before, but because I liked the team. They were classic. They played well (obviously). And I kinda liked Tom Brady.
Anyway, eventually I moved here, and oh boy, everyone suddenly had something to say about my pompom hat or Brady jersey. A lot of my friends wanted me to switch over to the Bills’ side since I live here now. My hockey coach even gave me a Bills hat for my birthday and made me promise to wear it (I still have it). And of course, during watch parties, I was practically forbidden to have anything Bills-themed.
I had zero intention of “switching sides”. When the Pats won the Super Bowl, I stayed. When they began their downfall and rebuild, I stayed. Now, after their last win, they are 11-2 and looking great for the playoffs. I’m continuing to show my support. It doesn’t matter to me that I am one of maybe three fans out here who aren’t die-hard Bills fans. I have my team, and I love them.
Coming to Bonaventure, I really haven’t had problems with my team, as everyone is coming from everywhere and bringing bits of their hometown with them. Except for when I wore my jersey the day after the Patriots defeated the Bills a couple of months ago, it’s been pretty quiet. And I really appreciate that people don’t hate me because, somehow, my admiration of now Drake Maye is what is keeping the Bills from making the playoffs. It’s nice for a change, and I’m so much more than the football team I like, too.
Besides, although it might be tough, just remembering what qualities you have outside of numbers of friends, fans, or popularity is enough. Don’t compare yourself to others who might tailgate together while you sit quietly in front of your TV or try to get under your nerves because of the lack of success in the past few seasons. Focus on what you DO have, like six Super Bowl rings.
That’s six more than they have.