As you likely know, the angry-looking fellow to the left is Frank Costanza, a classic character from the era-defining sitcom Seinfeld. Frank is high-strung, overly emotional and prone to flying into apoplectic fits over seemingly trivial occurrences.
So, he and I have a lot in common.
But in one classic episode, Frank embarks on a mission to control his explosive ways: A system called "serenity now!" -- which essentially consists of
Given the usual baggage surrounding Canadian soccer, and some recent developments, I think it's time to give the "serenity now!" approach a shot.
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Josh Simpson breaks his leg two weeks before a massive set of World Cup qualifiers? Serenity now!
A pair of players -- reportedly Atiba Hutchinson and Mike Klukowski -- pick up injuries in training, potentially endangering their status for the qualifiers? Serenity now!
And now an American team -- undoubtedly a top-15 squad in the world -- sharpened by a pair of recent friendlies is coming to BMO Field in their final tune-up game, all guns a-blazin' in front of what is likely to be a less-than-sold-out crowd? Serenity now!!!
Normally I would live and die by the results of any men's national team game, regardless of the stakes. The late equalizer against Ecuador last year had me smiling for days. The many other instances where things didn't end so positively ... well, they've sent me into the doldrums time and again.
But for the first time in a long time, I can appreciate a game for what it is: A game. A chance to see the players play. Maybe even, as the Canadian Soccer Association has been marketing it, as a celebration.
I will celebrate Canada emerging from the U.S.A. friendly with no injuries. I will celebrate any Canadian goals that are scored, or impressive plays that are made. I will celebrate the chance to see newcomers potentially making their way into the squad, or veterans who are able to show they've still got gas in the tank.
And yes, I will celebrate another opportunity to get together with like-minded fans and make noise in support of the boys in red.
I will endeavour to remain serene regardless of the result (barring a lopsided thrashing of the sort the Americans laid on Scotland last week). I will take the game for what it is -- something the players and coaches themselves have admitted -- a warm-up, a preparation... again, yes, maybe a celebration.
This is a novel approach for me. But I think it makes sense. After all, the really important games are yet to come: Friday in Cuba, and then next Tuesday against Honduras, back at BMO Field. World Cup qualifying. Everything on the line.
For this weekend, though, it's serenity now.
There is one downside to this system, though, as we were reminded by George Constanza's nemesis, Lloyd Braun:
"Serenity now... insanity later."
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PlZvY_LXJco
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