Letter: Enjoy the wins when you can get them

The Cubs did not win the World Series in 2022. I was pleased, however, that they won quite a few games. Their record, in fact, was 39 wins to only 31 losses over the second half of the season - a winning record.

That's not to say I didn't enjoy the Cubs becoming World Champions in 2016. Watching the Cubs play in a World Series at Wrigley Field was long on my "bucket list." And I did it; I was there to watch them play in their first home World Series game since 1945. Such a thrill!

Quite frankly, I'm not so sure the Cubs will win it all again within my lifetime. Twelve teams entered the playoffs last year and only one could prevail.

Each of the other 11 teams will try a little harder this year to become world champions. I'm very sure none will say, "Why try? The Cubs will probably win it in the end."

So I've concluded for us Cubs fans - for all sports fans in fact - it should simply be about enjoying those victories. Losing, of course, is never as much fun. (I recall hearing of at least one day when there was absolutely no joy in Mudville!)

I've decided, however, not to worry about further world championships and certainly not "dynasties." Playoff contention would be nice, but we'll see.

After two-thirds of a century as a Cubs fan, I suggest on days they win we smile, enjoy and fly the "W." On days they lose, let's just shrug our shoulders. In either case, let's then turn our attention back to our own life, endeavors and victories.

Bruce Bedingfield

Hoffman Estates