The Franklin Street Phenomenon

In the past 15 months a few strange things have happened in my life that have led to unforgettable experiences.  First, when we moved close to Philadelphia I adopted the Philles, Eagles, Flyers, and Sixers as new teams for our family.  Obviously, I didn’t have as much invested as Philly lifers but still hurt when the Eagles lost to Cardinals this year and was overjoyed when the Phillies won it all.  I also got to experience the NY Giants Super Bowl parade last year(had a chance to go to the Phillies parade and wish I had a do over) even though I am not a Giants fan.  That was an amazing experience especially to spend the day with two lifelong Giants fans.  So, if you know me, you know that I have been a lifelong ABC’er(Anybody But Carolina).  Last night was the first time in my life that I have rooted for North Carolina.  Andy Hames said,”Heath, you went from 0-53(Clemson’s bball record in Chapel Hill) to 53-0 pretty quick.”  I may never be as passionate about UNC hoops as lifers, but I’m sure gonna enjoy the ride of winning Championships more than…well, never.  Here’s a question:  in the history of mankind have our celebrations changed at all?  We run like mad men, join a crowd, and start fires.  We almost got crushed at the corner of Franklin and Columbus, but once we were out of the mob we stayed out.  What a thrill to buy a 2009 Championship shirt hot off the presses and to have my first Tar Heel experience be on Campus with the rest of Tar Heel nation.  I didn’t know the cheers, the chants, or traditions, but I knew something special was happening and was excited just to be int he midst of it.  I think it brought joy to my friends who had been preaching the Carolina gospel to me for years that I finally converted and we got to share the moment together.  A quick aside-there will be a post about similarities between my experience and first time church visitors later.  I do feel bad for those who through injury or drunkeness or both didn’t get to enjoy the celebration.  Even with the mob, people were genuinely nice unlike other celebrations I have been a part of.  I only got three hours sleep, but I had an experience I will always remember.  And, I’m sure when Drake’s a teenager, we’ll get to share a Championship moment together.  It may not be on Franklin Street, but we plan on watching the Heels win plenty more titles.    Who knows, we may move to your town someday, and celebrate with you…unless it’s New York because we will Never Ever root for the Yankees.  Kudos to Matt Leroy, Justin Simmons, their wives, and the lovechapelhill gang for putting on a great party and letting Carolina fans new and old experience Title No. 5.