I think everyone has wanted their own Ferris Bueller moment. You know, the day when you simply throw all your cares away and grab life by the scruff of the neck instead of going through your daily business.
That didn’t happen last week, but I did indulge myself in some of the movie character’s shenanigans. I went to a noon-time baseball game down in Baltimore.
The whole escapade bore little resemblance to what you see in the movies. I arranged for the afternoon off well in advance, I didn’t go with any friends, and I certainly did not tool around in a priceless sports car on my way to Oriole Park.
I didn’t even catch a foul ball.
But I did enjoy a warm, sunny day, eat a couple of hot dogs and savor an adult beverage. I also ran into two old friends and caught up with them.
That beats a day of work in my book.
Ironically, I read an article earlier in the day where an executive preached the importance of disconnecting from our connected lives from time to time. He spent nine days on vacation without a cell phone, tablet or computer. He didn’t even read the newspaper.
Now I don’t think all of us need to go that far, but I think the idea of simply throwing caution to the wind and having some time to ourselves makes a ton of sense.
I did have my phone with me because I don’t have to constantly check my e-mail and such when I take some time off. The secret for me lies in disconnecting mentally, not physically.
I didn’t worry that no one I knew could go to the game. An out-of-town friend had initially intended to visit during the day, but had to push his plans back. Siblings either couldn’t get off of work or had other plans. Friends envied me for getting the afternoon off.
So I had no problem settling into a seat by myself and getting ready for a great American tradition. I watch sports alone often enough on television so I didn’t see much difference. I don’t think we need to have a crowd around us at all times.
Still, I enjoyed it when a grade school friend swung by my seat. He saw a post on Facebook where I let people know where I would be and decided to come by. We spent several innings catching up and reminiscing.
Then I saw a former co-worker post a picture on Facebook of his view and realized he had sat down a few rows ahead of me in the great quest to find the perfect seat that you didn’t want to pay for. We also chatted for a while.
I ended up catching the last few innings (and the disappointing 11th-inning resolution) solo in a seat a couple dozen rows behind home plate. On the ride home, the disappointment of an Orioles loss could not overwhelm the satisfaction of the enjoyable experience.
The O’s have two more midweek afternoon games. The York Revolution and Harrisburg Senators each have a handful of late-morning or early-afternoon games (mainly aimed at schools and summer camps). Why not carve out some time for yourself and enjoy a game?