The quarterback gets the ball, drops back, sprints left, reverses his field, avoids an onrushing defender, rifles a pass in the corner of the end zone. Battling with the free safety, a wide receiver dives headlong and makes the catch just as his face and chest slam into the frozen turf. Touchdown. Elation consumes millions. But wait. A bright yellow hankie lies ominously on the field. Without emotion, the referee announces a holding penalty which nullifies the play. Will there be a riot, an appeal to a higher authority, a public opinion poll? No. Incredibly, the play is erased as if it never happened and the game resumes. Too bad we don’t apply the lessons of sport to everyday life. We take the field of play, give it what we’re willing to give and accept the consequences. Victory or defeat, exaltation or humiliation, sweet success or utter failure. Live by the rules and be judged on the spot. No excuses, no handouts, no federal regulations or political correctness. People worship sport because inherently we understand, believe in and love the principle of liberty under the law. Well, unless you live in the White House.