Boston
May, 2003
I've been to Boston a number of times and love the atmosphere. It looks old
and historic, yet the culture is very modern; more interested in the present and
the pride that comes from their roots than the actual history itself.
The culture seems to be almost ultra-urban; as if most of the city's residents
have never been to a rural area and only know city life. People, it seems spend
most of their leisure time sitting in a bar or at Fenway socializing and their idea
of a retreat from the city is to take a stroll in Boston Common and for many, their
definition of "outdoorsy" is crewing on the Charles River.
I like Bostonians though, they are more realistic than most people and don't
seem overly arrogant. Their pride comes from being a Bostonian and it seems everyone
can trace their ancestry back to either Ireland or the Mayflower. This is their
source of pride, which is difficult to overcome at first since I'm not from
Boston and often times feel like I'm looked down upon. However you soon get
beyond that and it seems there's little individual arrogance.
The people are passionate and refuse to accept defeat, while never losing faith
in that which they believe. The Bruins, Sox, and Celtics are always supported no
matter how bad they may be. The Patriots, however only gather a crowd in good times.
It seems their loyalty to their sports teams symbolizes them as a people; in many
ways it's what unites them and is a common topic of conversation. To switch
allegiance to another sports team is almost looked upon as denouncing God Himself.