It’s been wonderful to see how those living in the DMV have celebrated the hard-fought victories of first the Mystics and now the Nationals in postseason play.
So far, our city and those who live in communities in Virginia and Maryland, have joined in the festivities without incident. Perhaps it’s because it’s been so long since we’ve been afforded a sports franchise that has taken us all the way to their respective championships. Then again, it may just be the case that in sports, there’s something about the thrill of victory, the competitive spirit that athletes exude and the eternal optimism of diehard fans that we simply don’t want to tarnish the ride of winning.
Even more, it’s a beautiful thing to see how supportive District residents have been for two teams whose players are a variety of ethnic backgrounds, male and female. We have given our support to the players in equal proportion.
Whenever we hear the rhetoric espoused by the president about making America great again, we can’t help but cringe. If there’s anything that truly makes America great, it’s the many shades, shapes and sizes of the flowers that inhabit the soil of America’s garden of humanity.
Congratulations to the Mystics. And we’re claiming a World Series title for the Nationals in just a few more days. But when the lights on the court or field grow dim as we await the start of a new season of play, let’s try to stay charged up on behalf of more positive outcomes and committed to resolving many of the things that threaten to destroy our communities, our cities and our nation.
Dr. King described such a world and accompanying mindset of its members as the Beloved Community. As the political campaigns become more intense with 2020 just around the corner, we hope leaders will come to the forefront who recognize the beauty, power and potential that makes our country unique — our diversity.