Traditional sources of inspiration in America have disappeared, but sports give us a look at heroes in action. Sporting events show us a vision of what life could, and should be like: Athletes earn their way by proving their superior ability, not by demanding a handout; rules are explicit and fair, not arbitrary and enforced at someone's whim; athletes take unapologetic pride in their abilities and achievements.
Writes thomas Bowden in The Joy of Football: The Super Bowl Offers a Too-Rare Celebration of Goal-Achievement: