Super Bowl XLVII

New Orleans caressed us with

her eyelashes,

inspired us to dream of

things we can't see or touch.

We walked her streets feeling

her charming buildings,

with cast iron balconies,

a melting pot,

a home of great writers,

you can feel the spirits of the past,

in the present.

Colorful people,

colorful beads.

I've had my share of cafe au lait,

with beignets,

at Cafe Du Monde.

I have listened to tales

with my heart open.

New Orleans,

intimate like an old friend,

you visit,

delightful like a new one.

That was years ago,

but never forgotten,

only stored in the attics of my mind

for safekeeping.

Today captures it again,

today,

game day

we wait with anticipation,

sinful foods and drinks and laughter

in the house.

On the field,

festivities unfold,

the Armed Forces Color Guard

presents the flags,

our hearts beat like their drums.

The broadcast takes us to Afghanistan,

true heroes watching with pride.

They sacrifice,

so we can be free,

so we can play this game.

" America the Beautiful" 

Sandy Hook Elementary Chorus,

brings us to tears.

The Star Spangled Banner is

sung beautifully on the field.

We are overcome by emotion,

we weep.

Ravens or 49ers,

 I have listened to their stories

and their struggles.

The road challenging,

stepping stones,

that brought them here,

there are no losers today.

The highs and lows of today will

forever be imprinted on their hearts.

Today a celebration for

them,

for us.