Are there any?
Not really, for people who behave mostly reasonably about college football. Lest we lose sight of things in the heat of this unfortunate moment, that’s a phrase descriptive of a large majority of both the Alabama and Auburn fan bases.
For people like Harvey Updyke, the man accused of (almost certainly fatally) poisoning the 130-year-old live oaks adorning the intersection where generations of Auburn fans have celebrated victories, we can hope there is a lesson about actions having consequences.
That is likely to be a painful lesson indeed, as Updyke may have ruined the rest of his life. If convicted on only his current charge of criminal mischief, he could spend 10 years in prison—and there may be additional federal charges on the way. If he avoids incarceration, or has any significant life left when he’s released, he’ll almost certainly be unable to live in Alabama without being constantly harassed (or worse).
(Mind, that “or worse” also needs to be on the minds of law enforcement officers responsible for moving him. It only takes one successful lunatic.)
Of course, this is yet another opportunity for too much of the national press to pound on the state of Alabama. What kind of a nut would vandalize a rival school’s grounds in the name of football? Sheesh, they’re just trees. What kind of deranged fans obsess over just two trees? (I’ve seen it both ways.)
Well, they’re not just trees. They are the primary component of one of the Auburn family’s most beloved traditions. The murder of those live oaks is getting so much attention because it’s emotional cruelty. It instantly turns thousands of happy memories bittersweet. It robs a baby, crawling tonight in his I’m a Li’l’ Auburn Tiger onesie, of the opportunity of ever experiencing it like it was. Andy Staples has written the best piece I’ve seen on it. Go read it.
As my friend Saintseester said, a true fan of any school could neither commit nor condone such an act. (She didn’t write such a bad post on this whole situation either.) If you don’t understand the severity of this wound, there is no way I can explain it to you.
To my Auburn friends: I’m so sorry for your loss. You are the victims of despicable meanness, and my heart is with you. Please know you have the sincere sympathy of this Alabama fan, as well as that of many, many others.
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This afternoon, when I saw the Tide for Toomer’s page on facebook had raised over $15,000 and counting to help with the restoration costs, I was humbled to tears. And, so, so very proud to call this state my home.
Thanks, Bo. Well said. And like ‘seester, when I saw the Tide for Toomer’s amount raised this afternoon, I was speechless.
Great read Bo!!!
‘seester, Terri: Makes me proud.
Thanks, Lee. Welcome!