No Joy in Mudville

It's gotta get worse before it gets better.

That's pretty much the prevalent philosophy around here at this time of year when March Madness turns into March Mudness and March Sadness. 

Twas a tough ending to an otherwise great day yesterday. 

A festive feeling of the excitement toward the big game prevailed pretty much everywhere I went yesterday. 

The grocery store was alive with ZAG stories as shoppers pushed carts through the aisles grabbing goodies for feasting during the mid-afternoon ZAGS-Red Raiders match-up. 

At the check stand, a cashier planned to record the game since she'd be working, while another gentleman said he'd be checking the score on his phone from time to time. 

The excitement and ever-expanding loyalty generated by our bunch of talented and smart athletes over the past several months has been contagious.

Stories to go along with each game have been inspiring and impressive and fun for everyone to share.  

And, who would have guessed that almost of week's of a late-night show segments about the mythical team at the nonexistent university would provide such widespread enjoyment. 

Maybe we need to cling to the notion that Gonzaga does not exist; therefore, Gonzaga's loss yesterday did not happen.

We wish.  

Our beloved ZAGS have provided a sense of unity across the board, even from people who don't even care that much about sports. 

Maybe they are the true diplomats. 

Sadly, the magical run to the Final Four will have to wait another year.  

Still, the weekly joy, occasional disappointments, welcome diversion from all that troubles us and the camaraderie felt from everyone who genuinely feels they personally know those young men---each of the above has provided gifts that know no bounds. 

As one season ended abruptly for players and fans, another begins where life outside awaits. 

Just like what just got worse with the ending of a shining season on the indoor basketball courts, the sun will shine, the mud will dry up, grass and shrubs and trees will come alive. 

Outside will get better.

Caked mud from those horses' coats will fall off and, take with it, much of the dead and dirty winter hair.  

Before we know it, those coats will be sleek and shiny and beautiful as horses graze on green, vibrant grass.  

As for this year's outstanding ZAGS team, yesterday shall pass.  

Worse moments will turn to better memories as dreams of new players and a new team unfold, not only for participants but also for the spectators. 

It's a cycle, for sure, sometimes distressing.

One constant with our ZAGS does not operate in the cycle. 

We love them for their talents, their ethic and because of what they do for us and for so many others. 

 If any aspect of life  is to improve and shine again, we must all endure tough, uncomfortable and low moments, or in the case here at the Lovestead, the mud. 

Joy shall come again. 

Happy Sunday.