There are rare occasions when this blog has a moral obligation to deviate from our normal purpose. This day would be one of those occasions.

I’m not a rabid Redskins fan, but I watched Gibbs and the Skins thrash the Cowboys, 35-7, with particular delight. This perfect storm converged on FedEx Field and washed up a heaping helping of seared Tuna. (I’m referring to Cowboy’s coach Bill Parcells and his less than flattering nickname).

I asked my father-in-law what he thought about about the victory, and he provided me with the following wisdom:

“While avoiding the idol-worship that is prominent in and around Washington D.C. today, we are nevertheless very happy. Because we hate the Cowboys. Any team that arrogantly appoints themselves ‘America’s Team’ should be despised by all those who love humility.”

Here is Coach Joe Gibbs response to the game:

“We played the game of our life,” Gibbs said. “I feel very humble just to be a part of it.”

I hope you appreciate the rarity this represents: a reference to humility from a humble coach after an historic victory over a despised rival. How often do you find humility in professional sports?

Let every Redskins fan follow Gibbs’ example: let’s be very happy, but let’s be humble as well. Let us pass and not fail this test of prosperity.

You might enjoy coverage and commentary by Wilbon, Kornheiser, and Boswell.

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