One of the things that makes sports so special is the room it has for people like me — outsiders who don't follow every number and player but who love a close contest in the end. Especially one in her own hometown.

So here are some thoughts, not from a sports writer but from a not-sports writer, on the history that just happened.

• Human achievement is still far and away the greatest joy.
• Human achievement as a team is a special joy.
• Human achievement as an individual is a special joy.
• The ability to mess up and keep delivering at your best is hard — but essential.
• In the face of inevitably great competition, resilience and determination are essential.
• Dusting off life's bum calls against you is essential.
• Youth is great, but so is experience.
• Hard work and preparation set you free.

• People want to unite in celebration.
• People want to embrace their commonalities.
• Social media can still be fun and amplify wonder.
• Partaking in something bigger helps make life worth living.

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