Steelers and the Bengals

Something that all Christians can discuss seems to be sports.  This morning after the Liturgy of the Word (our church can't offer Thursday mass) I found myself talking to a friend, who like me leads the services at his parish, but his is a different Christian sect.  After we discussed the differences and similarities in our readings and similarities between reflections and sermons, we turned to the sports, especially the American football AFC Wild Card game this last weekend between the Steelers and the Bengals.

It was an awful game as far as behavior goes. It seemed like the teams really hated each other, my friend commented.  With the plays by the Bengals and the penalties inflicted on the giving the Steelers an advantage there, it seemed like justice was being served. (The Steelers in general have a reputation of being a hardworking team with good values, the whole Porter thing is just weird.) Why is it that we teach our children not to do things because they are wrong, like helmet to helmet contact, but it is okay for adults? Why do we suggest that once someone is an adult, anything goes, but while people are young they need to stick to moral teachings?  It is the same off the playing field and in real life. 

We teach kids not to cheat when they are in school, but how many adults cheat and steal within the work place setting?  I realize that questioning our beliefs and taking responsibility for our actions and even our faith is a phase in the learning behavior of every person as they grow, especially starts in the early 20s.  Sometimes like for these young players, one wishes they would grow up a little faster.  But the players are paid to do this too to keep viewers watching.  In watching we convince ourselves that this should be normal behavior. We are not paid to entertain.  Why do we act like this?  It should be a cautionary note.  It is okay to stand against the grain, to look towards one's own conscience and not necessarily follow the crowd.  Who knows, you may be surprised and find others with you.  Maybe that is all you need to do to make a difference in a young person's life, especially when you don't realize that you are also being looked up to as well.