Megan and I attended, as Kathryn says, “a proper football” match this past weekend between Hearts (of Edinburgh) and Kilmarnock (of Kilmarnock).

Unfortunately, the family team Hearts lost 3-1. I can’t exactly say it was a well-played game, but I’ll blame that on the soggy pitch and windy weather.

Viewing the match as an example of Scottish ritual, however, is fascinating. Just as college (American) football in the south is often called a religion, so too might Scottish football. One certainly feels affirmed when rooting for a win with hundreds of others. Wearing the particular colors of a team identifies one as a true follower. And the liturgy. Well, let’s just say I haven’t heard phrases that colorful in church.

We hope to attend another match or two, perhaps in Edinburgh the true mecca for Hearts fans. Until then, I might be stuck with Ayr United games.