In the Stands Volume 91102

I went to the Maryland game the other day with my buddy Bob.
We had a blast. We showed up about 3:30pm for a 6:00 game, got the
grill out, popped open a few beers and hung out. Tailgating is very much
like going to a bar. You're hanging out, throwing the ball around and next
thing you know its one big party. Where else in the world can you hang out
with friends you never knew you had, party the day away, see a great game,
and go home happy regardless of the score. (Well most of us anyway)

It's hard to believe things have ever been different. The casualties from
911 were not the first in a long history of war that started between good and
evil or the haves and the have nots since the dawn of time. We need to
remember those that came before us for we have been both the haves and the
have nots. For Americans it started with the Revolutionary War then the
Civil War where we actually fought our selves. We moved on to the great World
wars and even Korea or Vietnam. Maybe we didn't belong in some of those wars
but our goal was always the same, to keep Freedom alive and promote
Democracy.

I guess you could say I am living the American Dream. I have a beautiful wife
and two wonderful kids. I have a small business that is actually making
money and friends and family to spend it on. My biggest problem right now is
worrying how to take care of my grandmother who just a few months ago was 78
going on 60 but now she is more like 78 going on 90. But I will work it out.
She always took care of me when I needed help and I will do the same.

How could the American Dream so suddenly turn into the American Nightmare?
Well it hasn't for me but it sure did for the thousands who lost a loved one
on 911. There are others who lost something I know I have taken for granted
and that is their sense of security.

While we all mourn and remember those who were lost in the tragedy for me
it's a time for thanksgiving. A time to take stock of what's going on in my
life and to remember I have an awful lot to be thankful for. As bad as
things may be for any of you take time out to think of the good things in
your life. It's time to think positive and go out and reach for your dreams.
Because only in America do we have this opportunity.

So go out to your ballgames, spend time with your family, and remember that
while freedom isn't free. It's the only way to be!!!
James D. Jones
American Beerman