There is a story making the rounds on Yahoo and syracuse.com that some diehard fans saw when it was originally posted courtesy of the guys at Cuse Country. The post is titled “Priorities” and discusses a divorce settlement between a die-hard SU fan and his soon-to-be ex wife (and includes a picture of the document).
Contained in the document is their agreement on how to handle various holidays during even and odd years, including birthdays, St, Patrick’s day and even Super Bowl Sunday. However, what really makes this special is that the father actually requests the children in the event that Syracuse is playing in the MBB National Championship game (in fact, he even states this applies until the end of the game as well). I also like that he is confident that this will happen again before his kids turn 18.
Let’s be honest, that is dedication. I know some couples who can’t agree on certain occasions so seeing he had the foresight to add this just proves how smart he is. Some may consider it somewhat unusual but if you think about it, how many of us have such vivid memories of Syracuse games because we enjoyed the experience with family? That is how traditions are made and fans become passionate. Check out how one female lacrosse player at Syracuse learned about one of my favorite traditions: the significance of the #44.
When Mike Waters of syracuse.com posted his story on it today, he asked to submit unusual stories of Orange dedication. Now, while I am a dedicated and passionate fan, I am not sure I have any stories that I can think of that are unusual. I did comment though that I would very much love to be buried in a Syracuse football #44 (either the one I have now that my brother gave me or if I am ever able to get one of those awesome Orange ones) and my services will be filled with happy, uplifting songs from Lion King, Monty Python and also the Syracuse fight song. This is actually a fact though I have not had it added to any paperwork legally yet but only because I have not sat down and put together a will or anything else pertaining to my last wishes (unless some lawyer can use this to enforce my wishes).
Sure, as noted in my post earlier today, I have an orange car and have a lot of orange in my wardrobe and in my everyday routine but I am sure others do that as well. I use the name OrangeChuck or orangechucke (the e is my middle initial and an homage to be referred to as Chucky for years by family and friends) in forums and social media because it is not just a color of choice; it is part of my identity. I just do not consider it unusual though as I know others who use their school colors incorporated into their wardrobe or other aspects of their life. Okay, maybe that I am not a Syracuse alum might make it a bit more unusual but I know many in Syracuse who never attended the school but are as passionate and are the first in line for season tickets every year.
So how strong is your pride in something whether it be Syracuse University, the city of Syracuse, or whatever it is that makes you happy? Do you have a fun way to express your pride? Some might consider it obsessive but if you can function normally and it makes you happy, who cares?
