It’s never the wrong time to reflect on things to be thankful for. Unlike Christmas in July, gratitude isn’t a novelty – it’s always in season and never out of style. Taking inventory of our blessings can lift our spirits, even when circumstances seem bleak.
Personally, I’m thankful for my wife, children, and even our dogs. Despite their occasional “Evil Dog Stuff,” they’re great companions. I’m grateful for my health, friends, and work. Even when stressed, I’m blessed to have a job I love. My sisters, their families, and my mother are also among my reasons for appreciation.
Finding positivity in sports can be challenging, especially when your team struggles. As a New York Giants fan, with their current 1-5 record, it’s been difficult to find things to be thankful for. Last year’s unexpected success under new Head Coach Brian Daboll and General Manager Joe Schoen raised hopes, making this season’s disappointment more acute.
Difficult schedule
The Giants face a tougher schedule this year due to last season’s success. While they’ve mostly played superior opponents, fans hoped for a few upset victories. Today’s game against the Washington Commanders once seemed winnable, but now it’s significant for different reasons.
Approaching Trade Deadline
With the trade deadline approaching, GM Joe Schoen must evaluate which players might be valuable trade assets. It’s like visiting a scrapyard – what can be salvaged, and what should be discarded?
Saquon Barkley, in his sixth season with the Giants, exemplifies the challenge of finding blessings amid disappointment. I’m thankful for his on-field performance, and off-field community contributions. As the second overall pick in the 2018 draft and NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, Barkley seemed like a generational talent. While he’s had impressive seasons, injuries have hampered his impact.
Gratitude in Challenging Times
The team’s lack of overall talent makes Barkley’s situation more poignant. Trading him before the deadline could benefit both Barkley and the New York Giants‘ future. Placing him on a playoff contender would be a way of thanking him for his contributions. See Osprey Lifestyle gear for hiking, biking and travel.
Being a sports fan often requires a delicate balance between passion and perspective. Even in a disappointing season, there are still things to be thankful for – the thrill of a well-executed play, the shared experience with fellow fans, or the potential glimpsed in young players. These moments of gratitude don’t erase the frustrations, but they can make the journey more bearable.
Reasons for Appreciation
For Giants fans, this season may be a test of resilience. Yet, it’s precisely in these challenging times that we can find unexpected reasons for appreciation and finding positivity in sports. Whether it’s the development of a rookie, a hard-fought victory, or simply the unwavering support of the fanbase, these are always small victories to celebrate. As wel navigate this difficult season, le’t not lose sight of these silve lining – they’re the things that keep us coming back, year after year, regardless of the team’s record.
Barry Schustermann
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