Steelers vs. Ravens vs. 9/11

I get really pumped up for the first game of the season, regardless of who we're playing. And I get really pumped up to play the Ravens, regardless of when we play them. So what's not to love about playing the Ravens to open the season? Because the game is being played on the 10th anniversary of 9/11.

On game days, I try to get a little work done around the house in the morning, but by 10:00 or so, my mind is focused on nothing but football. I listen to all my Steelers songs. Watch some YouTube clips. Read and post on boards. Watch bits and pieces of pregame shows. Start getting the food ready. And eventually start partaking in some adult beverages. By kickoff, I'm so pumped up I feel like I could take the field and play. ... Well, maybe not.

But this year is going to be different. As much as I love Steelers football, this Sunday will be a time of reflection on what happened on Sept. 11 ten years ago and everything that has happened since. During the game, I'll have the same passion as I always do, but before and after, my thoughts will be on those who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks, the men and women who responded to the attacks, our soldiers who gave their lives to defend us, and our soldiers who continue to defend us today.

I wish the game was being played on a different day. But then again, maybe it's good that it falls on this date. As terrible as the attacks on 9/11 were, we shouldn't have let them change who we are. That was one of the terrorists' goals. In some ways, which I won't get into here, the terrorists succeeded. But I refuse to let them change me. So next Sunday, I'll take time to remember those who died and those who have sacrificed. But I'll also take time to do what I love ... watch the Steelers kick the crap out of the Ravens.