Cool Takes and Hot Streaks
The Big 12 switches back to hardwood floors, the Miami Heat aren't apologizing and SGA breaks another record.
Baseball is happening! Here’s your weekly splash of joy:
Why do you love baseball?
Brilliant Reader Tony: “Going to my first game with my Dad is one of the most endearing memories I have… I have now done the same with my kids and grandkids.”
Brilliant Reader Andy: “I was at Fenway Park one Patriots Day when I received a call from my mother. We chatted for a mini or two, and then she said, ’I can’t hear you, you’re breaking up.’ I said, ‘Well, the Sox are down two in the ninth inning.’”
Brilliant Reader Brenda: “Had no idea the Cardinals fan I took to Game 6 of the 1985 World Series — the Don Denkinger game — would become my husband of almost 40 years. We refer to it as our Baseball Romance story.”
Brilliant Reader David: “Game 5 of the Mariners-Blue Jays series. Is there anything better than seeing your 11-year-old grandson in love with a game you loved when you were 11?”
Fridays are Clubhouse days around here. The Clubhouse is where the conversation opens up — where we go a little deeper, wander down a few side roads, have friendly arguments, chat over the weekend, and share some joy. Today, I’m taking a quick look at three stories in the news and offering what you might call “cool takes” about them.
What is the difference between a Hot Take and a Cool Take?
I guess I’d say it’s this:
A Hot Take is designed to generate heat, arguments, and clashes. They are loud (always loud), certain, and, for the most part, instantaneous. They are meant to jolt you. They are meant to grab your attention. Many, many people obviously LOVE hot takes, so I’m not knocking them. They’re just not for me.
A Cool Take is, I hope, designed for something else. Perspective. Curiosity. Connection. A Cool Take is slower, less certain, empathetic, and the point is — again, this is my hope — to inspire others to see things from a slightly different angle. The best cool takes open up the conversation, not end it.
Anyway, we’ll give it a try.
If you’re a Clubhouse member, come on down — the door’s open below.
If you’re a free reader, thank you for being here. If you ever feel like joining us on Fridays — not for more, exactly, but to be a bigger part of our world — we’d love to have you.
