A Benediction

This is from an old column by Geoffery Norman, who also wrote Alabama Showdown back in the '80's. It's one of my favorite pieces. I usually bring it out this time of year, and I wish I'd written it. Norman is recalling meeting with an old writer friend in Montgomery, many years back:

We were supposed to be talking politics but we couldn't help ourselves. It was hot. It is always hot in the black belt of Alabama in the middle of August, and it feels like it will be hot for all eternity. So we talked about sports for some relief.

"You know," the man said wearily, "I just can't wait until they kick it off again. I mean, I feel like if I can just make it for another two or three weeks, then they'll be playing football again and then everything will be okay."

Hallelujah, amen.