Soon I joined the hundreds of folks in the streets surrounding the ballpark, excitement brimming, as I watched a television interview (that's Sarah Kustok from Comcast Sports interviewing a fan--already some creative interaction!), and headed over to Murphy's Bleachers, one of the classic bars kitty-corner from the stadium, where I thought I might find a friend of mine. It was packed and, of course, filled with people who had started drinking before noon. "What happens at Wrigley stays at Wrigley," I heard one guy slur. I liked that notion--that anything is possible--but my stomach cringed at seeing the
tables and tables of already-consumed beer (see pic). I certainly believe that drinking can at times stimulate the creative process, but overall the scene reminded of the lost hours (including the debilitating hangover) that ultimately tend to numb rather than enliven my creative life.Now, I wasn't planning to go into the stadium, but I couldn't resist querying some of the scalpers and soon learned that I might be able to snag a cheaper ticket than I had imagined, maybe even face value. As I debated with myself whether I could afford the time, I weaved through the crowds, past the Harry Caray statue, among the smiling children and the long-suffering but happy-at-the-moment grandparents, to the lines of eager fans waiting to get in. Hmmm. And as fate would have it, I somehow came across a regular guy with an extra ticket who was willing to give it 
away for a song. After a brief negotiation, I would join him for the irresistible price of just $20! Holy Cow! I was in.
away for a song. After a brief negotiation, I would join him for the irresistible price of just $20! Holy Cow! I was in.And look at these seats! Magnificently located on the first base side, a beautiful cool day, a Pepsi in my hand, this was nice. I know a hell of a lot more about the Cubs and their players than I should admit, so it was only minutes before I had already made friends with three other guys sitting around me, discussing last year's hitting slump, the worst fielder ever (Soriano), and the potential of the pitching staff. Before we knew it, the Cubs homered once and then twice, and soon we had a victory
on opening day, baby!Now the truth is, baseball is not that exciting. It helps when you know the players and strategy, but even given that I often start to get antsy by the 6th inning. So why do I go? What do I care? Again, I ask, is it worth the brain space and the time?
There is something wonderful about being a Cubs fan, which connects you in spirit to millions of people around the world. There is something about the taste of possibility on your tongue, the stirring of creativity embodied by the "It's Gonna Happen" signs that set a vision of the future. It helps me imagine a different world, where the Cubs are victors and our decades of suffering can be transformed with a swing of the bat and a final strike out pitch. But. But. But. It's heresy, I know, but coming out on opening day has confirmed for me that I have to make a change this year. Say it ain't say so, millions might carp, but I have come to this conclusion. I need to get out on my own field more this year. I have to be more of a creator. Cubs, I love you, but I can't do this anymore.
There is something wonderful about being a Cubs fan, which connects you in spirit to millions of people around the world. There is something about the taste of possibility on your tongue, the stirring of creativity embodied by the "It's Gonna Happen" signs that set a vision of the future. It helps me imagine a different world, where the Cubs are victors and our decades of suffering can be transformed with a swing of the bat and a final strike out pitch. But. But. But. It's heresy, I know, but coming out on opening day has confirmed for me that I have to make a change this year. Say it ain't say so, millions might carp, but I have come to this conclusion. I need to get out on my own field more this year. I have to be more of a creator. Cubs, I love you, but I can't do this anymore.