The Sunday Sundown Rundown (formerly in the format of "3 Up and 3 Down") is where I share thoughts on three topics that piqued my interest, along with my favorite photo from the week.
Storylines and Sports
It certainly was a week to feel much deeper than attachment for your favorite team. Sports gave us deeper storylines and occurrences where we felt, we appreciated, and we found the unexplainable in life. From that magical cinematic match that was Serena Williams' comeback match versus Maya Joint in the 2nd Round at Wimbledon, to everything that was Cape Verde's run and challenge against the defending World Cup Champions in Argentina, sports provided some amazing feels this week.
Making Sense of ALS
I'm not a huge football fan, but this story really shook me when it made mainstream headlines. Former NFL superstar Chris Johnson announced his ALS diagnosis. As shocking as the announcement was, the reality settled in as you saw the image of a once powerful and athletically built individual now confined to a wheelchair and a computer speaking for him.
ALS is a nasty disease. And admittedly, it's very jarring to learn Johnson is in this fight at the age of 40.
Also, shoutout to Rebel (as pro wrestling fans are aware of), who is also battling ALS.
America 250
In a divided country, July 4th feels very....well, different. It's still special and carries an aura of appreciation for the country (as it should). Admittedly, I've wrestled with my own appreciation for America on this site, and a lot of it stems from varied expectations of Patriotism - more so the gatekeeping that is pervasive in our society. Regardless, as always, I love America. Always will.
With that said, my "feel" is accurate. Recent findings show that we're all struggling with this concept. And that's through the hot dogs, beach visits, and red, white, and blue tank tops experienced this weekend.
However, I still feel we all love this country. On its 250th birthday, and all of the shortcomings and imperfections, historically and currently that make up the USA, I personally like to believe we all contributed to those 50 stars and stripes - because we did. A lot of the gatekeeping of "patriotism" lends to sentiments in that recent Gallup poll. And much of it to the divide that feels enormous between so many of us.
Nonetheless, happy 250th birthday, America.
On this July 4th weekend, this week was a great reminder to appreciate your life, your loved ones, the blessings, and this country.
Cover Photo
A commuter sits as members of the group Patriot Front ride the metro on the Fourth of July in Washington.
REUTERS/Cheney Orr