My New Year’s resolution: Let go of the past
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The New Year is a time to let go and embrace change. Some let go of clutter, while others change their eating and exercise habits. While I can certainly afford to finally throw out the dozens of giveaway t-shirts I’ve been hoarding, or dust off the elliptical sitting in my basement, I have decided to let go of the past.
The Phillies’ past, that is.
Let me start by saying that I am all aboard the transition train. When General Manager Matt Klentak decided to pull the trigger and trade Cole Hamels, I was all for it. When the team decided to part ways with Carlos Ruiz and Ryan Howard this year, I accepted it.
Yet, I still find myself dwelling on the good old days. Despite the fact that the team hasn’t made the playoffs in five seasons, and 2008 was nine years ago, it has been hard to let go.
I rooted for the Dodgers in the postseason – a team I usually enjoy rooting against – solely because of Chase Utley and Chooch. I even found myself wondering where Utley could fit on the roster when I realized he hasn’t signed yet this offseason.
My mind is set on the future while my heart is still stuck in the past.
In my defense, however, it was difficult to let go when there wasn’t much to look forward to. Now, I finally feel as if the team has a new, clear direction and players to get excited about.
This season won’t be a championship year. Heck, the Phils probably won’t even be close to a playoff spot. But it’s the last season where fans can just sit back, watch the young players grow, and embrace the failures. Next offseason, we’ll be looking for Klentak to sign some players and some youngsters’ leashes will be a bit shorter.
It’s an exciting time to be a Phils fan. It’s time to embrace the future. I think I’m finally ready to let go.
