World of Sports No Longer Transcends Politics and Religion

The days of reflection continue.
Friday’s horrific ISIS terror attacks in France finally touched a nerve of a way of life that really hadn’t been touched on.
The world of sports.
Perhaps we figured the kind of terrorist inhumanity we have known would only affect buildings, financial foundations and other symbolic landmarks which would spread fear and send a message.
Yes, we know how the kidnapping and massacre of Israeli athletes at the 1972 Summer Olympics left an indelible mark on our memory of athletic events we thought would be immune from political and religious warfare.
And we are all aware of the increased security evident at major sports events after 9/11.
The NFL upped the ante on stadium safety and protection Sunday following the mass killings in France.
And the TV networks made sure the National Anthem would be shown on every telecast.
What brought it all home in the universe of fun and games was the news that a suicide bomber had a ticket and attempted to enter the European football match between France and Germany.
He was not permitted entry because he was wearing an explosive vest. One which he detonated shortly after.
Now there is concern in London of a soccer match scheduled Tuesday between England and France.
Terrorism takes shape in new ways. And their targets do the same.
We all have to go on living our lives. We can’t hide.
But what happened Friday apparently has no boundaries.
Sports has always been looked upon as a an athletic competition which transcends politics and religion. Almost as if a time out is called from world problems and the game goes on.
That’s no longer the case.