Punt return on investment

The Super Bowl had its moments, but a lot of good stuff came afterwards. Opening the door and hearing the city erupt; watching parents bring their children out onto balconies to shout "hooray!", stepping outside now--almost 3 a.m.--and hearing excited yells still. Sports play a vital role in maintaining civic identity--even commercial sports, whatever nonprofit purists might say.

One other favorite moment of the evening came when reading the New York Times Fifth Down Blog, which liveblogged the game. An early commenter tackled the Times for devoting attention to such a frivolous issue amidst war, poverty and other crises. Discussion ensued, with others adding their voices to the critique. But then a reader from Norway (!) added a bit of perspective:

Sure, there are lots of more important issues. However, lets not forget that man *also* needs moments like this. Man needs music, art, sports - many things that won’t immediately make a physical impact on this world. And this - the drama and the almost miraculous comeback from the brink of loss - reminds us that miracles CAN happen, with a little luck, and a lot of commitment and skill.