O Captain, My Captain

One of my favorite Christmas gifts this year was Red's new book "Let Me Tell You a Story: A Lifetime in the Game." I'm only 4 chapters in so far, but I can already tell that it is fantastic. If I were teaching Celtics 101, this would be the textbook. In fact, for the rookies that sat at lunch with Red and couldn't remember who Sam Jones was, I think this should be required reading. No more PT until you've finished the book and written an essay on Celtic Pride.

And to think, when I was taking grad classes at GW, Red was holding court at the China Doll every Tuesday just a few streets over. I really don't get star-struck (I think it is silly to idolize people who are simply known by lots of people). I'm pretty sure that I could have a regular conversation with Pierce, Doc, and the crew. But put me in a room with Red, and I wouldn't have any words to say. Which I'm sure he's used to, which is why he fills in the time telling fantastic stories.

We got Bill Russell for 2 players and the Ice Capades? Red got his start coaching the Washington Redskins? If you don't have the privilage to sit down and talk to this man for hours on end, as is the case with most of us, I suppose the next best thing is to read this book. Enjoy.