is this heaven?

i think everyone can agree that there's absolutely nothing better than spending time with one's best friends. in fact, more often than not, mine get together at baseball games. it's our escape from the pressures of life . . . . our home away from home . . . . our sanctuary. the ballpark is where we go to take a break from our lives. it's one of the few places on this earth where it's possible to lose one's self completely. in the midst of the bright blue sky . . . . the freshly cut green grass . . . . the damp brown infield dirt. it's a beautiful place to be. it's a place where everyone belongs. no matter who you are, you know there's a place for you at the ballpark. everyone has to wait in the same lines . . . . everyone has to use the same bathrooms . . . . everyone is rooting for the same team. it's one common goal. one common purpose. we all share a love for the game. but more than that, we all share a love for each other.

tonight, the city of baltimore defended its turf against the city of tampa bay. much to the delight of the crowd, our orioles pulled out a 5-4 game over the heavily favored rays. today was a spectacular day. and no matter what tomorrow's like . . . . one thing's for certain . . . . we'll sleep well tonight.

until thirteen,

the clock strikes twelve.