Unreal

Well that was a surprise.  A pleasant one mind.
I think our gathering was the smallest we have ever had.  Six.  But percentage wise it was the biggest Blues contingent ever.  Two.  Also the ladies outnumbered the guys two to one.  Four.
Heaps had been asked.  But one was battling covid when the replied.  Another couple invited for the first time, have their own get together.  Some never replied.  Another sent a text on the day saying that a cold had unexpectedly got them.  Another missed the clash here for the first time.  The wife does not go out at night.  I think that may be a growing trend.
But one very unexpected pleasant surprise, was someone up here on holidays.  She had come regularly when living here.  Anther great surprise was someone who could come who had been cruising until the weekend.  Her hubby had to work so could not make it.  I was told a radio station was being sought to hear the broadcast.
It reminded me of the past when I would listen to the radio while at work and rush to the car when I finished so I missed as little as possible.
My passion for the game is different these days.  I still love it, and I still leap to my feet when Queensland score, but somehow things feel different.  Once it seemed really important we won.  Maybe it was all the years when Queenslander’s played for NSW because they were in the NSW league.  A perceived injustice needed to be corrected.
Somehow these days the shared experience matters more.  I love the company.  I love the get togethers.  While I must admit I still love seeing Queensland win.  I also love the graciousness of the supporters on the losing side.  It seems no matter who wins good footy from either side is applauded.  Like the holding up of a NSW player over the line to prevent him from scoring.  Unbelievable.
But as is often the case.  It was good to be a Queenslander.  Being in Adelaide which is neutral territory it felt important to win that one, with the home ground advantage going to Queensland for the next.
I look forward to the game and the company.