Alexander Ovechkin Is Like a Drug
Or why hockey makes me happy


Yesterday was a tough day. Neil's company announced furloughs, I had some frustrations at the office, it was cloudy and cold all day and the news about the economy continued to be grim. Then we went to a Capitals game.

Being a sports fan is new for me. I am not accustomed to giving myself over so completely to fandom. In the past, even when I was rooting for a team, I rarely cheered out loud. I was even hesitant to rise for standing ovations at the theater. It could be my journalism training and my habit of observing rather than participating. In any case, my Capitals fandom has cured me of my fear to cheer and last night gave us great reason to go hoarse with screaming.

Ovechkin came storming out onto the ice, beat two defenders, gave himself a pass off the boards, spun around and received the pass, then was tripped and he still managed to score a goal while lying down and sliding toward the net. Not only was it completely amazing, a feat of astounding athleticism, but it was inspiring. Ovie's determination and then, after succeeding, his exuberance lightened my heart and reminded me what we can all accomplish when we put our minds to it.

So thanks Ovie, for the inspiration and the excuse to scream at the top of my lungs. (It's incredibly therapeutic.)