HEAL THY CITY. A sports championship brings together people in civic and communal pride like no other single event. Politics and religion cleave people more than heal us. But a World Series title by baseball's San Francisco Giants, one of the best-coached teams and well-run organizations in pro sports? Everyone's a brother and sister.
In downtown San Francisco, small acts of grace are everywhere. Drivers in choked traffic patiently let herds of whooping fans cross the streets. Rag-wearing homeboys in a shiny lowrider wave their Giants caps at an elderly Chinese couple, who smile broadly and wave back. Instead of jostling to see the players, tall parade-watchers let shorter fans squeeze in front of them.
During the victory celebration and program at City Hall, Giants pitcher Sergio Romo hails the diversity of teammates and fans, calling them "different faces from different places." Manager Bruce Bochy praises the ballplayers' "never-say-die" attitude in a rough season. And CEO Larry Baer points out the valuable "life lessons" and "teachable moments" our children can learn from the Giants, including perseverance and teamwork. Baer adds: "Let's celebrate what we have as a team, as a city, as a community."
Yes, a world championship every day would be nice, eh?