Of hobbies, I've had a few. . .

Normally I am not one to disparage the choice of hobbies or sports interests some have made.  But there are few curlers in my congregation and I must admit, though I have watched this so-called sport, I don't get it. Curling is old.  Okay, I get that.  It was begun in areas where people have lots of rock, lots of time, and seemingly little else to do.  I get that.  Maybe it is fun for those who do it, but watching curling is about like watching the a front loader move sand from one pile to another -- pointless.  I know I risk offending some of my readers but I find curling the oddest of attractions.  On the other hand, it seems to be a sport especially suited for Lutherans (which is why I wonder sometimes why I do not like it).

Lutherans are by all accounts rather dull and they live somewhat unexciting lives.  They are thrilled with things like lutefisk and tuna and noodle casseroles.  They follow a liturgy which is predictable and routine.  They sing hymns many in the world have chosen not to sing, anymore, at least.  They have no superstar figures in politics, sports, or religion.  So I guess it would be obvious that the sport for Lutherans is curling.  Hence my dilemma.  Why do I find this "sport" so irritating when it seems the perfect hobby for me, a Lutheran?

But lo the winter is near past and the voice of the turtledove will soon be heard in the land... which means that the Olympics are over and curlers will put away their stones for the year and all this tension and excitement over some ice, a broom, and a rock will dissipate and life will return to normal in Lutherland again.  At least that is what I hope...