I am the first to admit that I am a huge college football fan. In fact, my post Friday morning will attest to the fact that I am especially fond of Alabama football. Thursday night, the start of college football season, will kickoff the start of my favorite time of year. Fall gives us so many good things. Apples, candy corn, pumpkins, hayrides, trick or treating, delicious food, gorgeous weather, and football. I can’t wait! However, there is something I want to point out before all the magic begins….. football is NOT the most important thing in the world.
Maybe I am the only person who has noticed this. If I am, I apologize for even bringing it up. Maybe I feel things too deeply or take people’s comments too seriously. Over the past couple of seasons, I have noticed an increasing amount of animosity between fans of different teams. This hatefulness is usually the loudest on the Internet and Facebook. I have seen people treating each other terribly over what is just a game. This upsets me.
It’s okay to support your team. It’s great to be ecstatic when they win. It’s natural to be disappointed when losses come. But life goes on. Football isn’t something to lose friendships over. Yes, I’m an Alabama fan, but many people I love and care about are not. I am writing this as a reminder to myself as much as anybody else to not get so caught up in the game this year. Dear self, reread this post as the season goes on!
Now, I know not every fan treats rival fans hatefully. I think the Toomers for Tuscaloosa and Tide for Toomers organizations have the right idea. They have the right perspective. The people matter more than the game. I love how our state has united after tragedy. I hope that spirit continues throughout the season.
Whoever you root for on Saturdays, enjoy this season. Enjoy the wins. Enjoy the competition. Enjoy the camaraderie with fellow fans. Treat rival fans with respect. In the words of Coach Bryant, “Show class. Have dedication and pride.” Let’s get excited. The most wonderful time of the year is almost here! Here’s a (small) War Eagle, a (big) Roll Tide, and a huge hug. Love y’all muches 
