You’ve endured 107 years of pain and suffering. Your team’s playoff history cannot be discussed without referencing curses, goats or Steve Bartman. For 10 years, White Sox fans have dominated every argument over whose team reigns supreme by flaunting a 2005 World Series trophy or ring in your grill. Cubs fans: You’ve more than paid your dues. As the Chicago Cubs head into the National League Championship Series, I’d like to offer you some friendly advice fan-to-fan. While I may be the most unlikely and unexpected of supporters, who better to offer advice to prepare for the journey you’re about to embark on than someone who’s been there already?
Winning is the best medicine, just beware of the side effects
The NLDS was a breakthrough medication that cleared up that pesky STD (St. Louis Transmitted Defeat) once and for all. Prolonged winning also acts as an antidepressant, helping shed feelings of loss while encouraging celebration. Like with any medication, there are possible side effects. Anticipation of winning it all can lead to anxiety, sleep disorders, nausea and vomiting … especially if you know your team’s history. That said …
Consider a wardrobe upgrade
I’m not saying to wear a mask, put on a cape and become a Cubs-themed superhero. Been there, done that. I am suggesting honoring the Batman (or bat men) on your team by wearing their jerseys everywhere you go. While the names Banks, Grace, Sandberg and Sosa honor your team’s history, they are also reminders of the championship void that came with them. Laying down some coin for a jersey bearing the name Rizzo, Bryant or any of the Cubs’ young core may scream “bandwagon” to some but says “no more next year” to the world.
Embrace every moment
Like a Kyle Schwarber home run, you might not ever come down from the experience. Welcome bandwagon jumpers, accept congratulations from President Obama (even if he’s a White Sox fan), believe in destiny, not coincidence, that in 1989, “Back to the Future II,” not ESPN or Sports Illustrated, predicted the Cubs would win the World Series. Hoverboards? Not needed, McFly! World Series buzz will have you floating on air for years to come all by itself.
Bring on the rock anthem
No offense, but Eddie Vedder’s “All the Way” lovable losers lament song is more of an emo ballad than a blood-pumping battle cry. As “One Chicago” I’d be willing to share Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’,” but I fear it would draw “copycat” allegations and ridicule from White Sox fans of the far right. Whatever your song choice is, make it something that stands the test of time. Years from now when you hear it, you’ll remember where you were when the curse was lifted.
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Practice the golden rule
As a Cubs fan, you can empathize with Sox fans’ angst. This is likely just the start of what should be years of playoff relevance for the Cubs, while our team has failed to meet expectations since 2008, the last time the Cubs were in the postseason. For those Sox fans who can’t rise above the rivalry and respect your team’s achievements, take hate and bitterness as their way of saying, “Congratulations. We’re happy for you.” Finally, if this is the year you finally get your ring, practice the golden rule: gloat, #FlyTheW and tease us in the same manner we’ve teased you for the past 10 years. The rules of war permit it.
As I don’t have a white flag, I’ll close by extending a white sock olive branch in saying good luck, Cubs! Make Chicago proud. Our rivalry resumes in the spring!
Soxman is a RedEye contributor.