The word “Underdog” is all the rage at the moment, thanks to the Philadelphia Eagles and their spectacular season. In case you haven’t been following football, the Eagles have beaten the odds and these underdogs are on their way to The Superbowl. According to the Urban Dictionary, the definition of underdog means, “someone who is hardly noticed, kind of the opposite of popular or the best, but not exactly the worst, one that is expected to lose a contest or struggle, one that is at a disadvantage.”

Now I am no fair weather fan – no sir indeed! I’ve been a diehard Eagles’ fan ever since I was a wee little girl plopped up on her daddy’s lap rooting for the home team. Being the eldest of 5 girls, my dad had to share his love of the game with someone. I learned about the game of football at an early age just by spending time with my dad and poppy. And of course, they were Eagles’ fans. It was a family tradition. But as a grown woman, I could have easily given up on this team.  I mean they have certainly disappointed and frustrated their fans over the years, but I am not a quitter – no way, no how – I’ve always had a passion for the underdog, those whose prospects look bleak.

Even when selecting books to read, or movies to enjoy, I’ve always seemed to gravitate to stories about characters who overcame the odds.  Maybe it’s the ultimate cheerleader in me or just my tenacious personality that will not allow failure of any kind to overshadow my goals and dreams. Failure my friends is not the enemy here, it is exactly the opposite; It is the catalyst that propels you to victory. Lessons learned are those that are hard-fought but which make victory that much sweeter. Stay focused on the prize, use your strengths to strengthen your weaknesses, and above all stay humble. So whether you’re an Eagles’ fan or not, you’ve got to admire those underdogs.

Oh yes, on Superbowl Sunday, I’ll be wearing my green – hooting and hollering.  Without a doubt, I’m definitely, most assuredly rooting for my team regardless of what the odds are. More than anything, of course, I want to see that Lombardi Trophy in the hands of my Eagles’ players, but if the odds don’t work out in their favor – I still LOVE my team, and I am incredibly proud of their performance this year. You’ve got to love an underdog. Go EAGLES!