Today it seems inappropriate to fill these pages with any thing of such inconsequence like games, scores and statistics. Today we mourn one of the largest losses this country has ever been forced to endure. Today we woke up a new nation.

Tuesday’s terrorist acts have left thousands upon thousands of people dead or injured. This act of evil and rage has shattered families and friendships forever. Life in this country will never quite be the same. Tuesday truly was a day of infamy.

It’s for that reason sports have such unimportant, insignificant appeal today. It’s easy in everyday life to get wrapped up in the importance of a pennant stretch, the excitement of a season-opening football game or the awe of watching sports’ biggest heroes on the field.

But this country’s heroes aren’t those who hit a round ball with a wooden stick, or toss a pigskin through the air. That was evident Tuesday. The true heroes are those who run into burning buildings giving their lives to save others. Our true heroes are not those who hit the most home runs or score the most points, but those who risk and give their lives for freedom.

Such a horrific tragedy and such acts of admirable heroism deserve the respect, thoughts and prayers of a nation. That is why professional and college athletic events were canceled Tuesday and likely will be canceled throughout the week.

Safety precautions were taken into consideration when these decisions were made, but they were made out of respect and honor for the victims of this heinous crime. Grown men playing a child’s game have not earned, nor have they deserved such respect.

These athletes put their images and statistics on the line everyday – not their lives. Yet, some believe the single most terrifying act of terrorism in this nation’s history isn’t important enough to put something so insignificant as a football game on hold.

Bobby Bowden, the head coach of Florida State’s football program, said in an interview on ESPN that he has a football game to prepare for and didn’t think the world should be put on hold. He sees his upcoming Saturday game against Georgia Tech more important than showing respect for this country’s true heroes.

On the other hand, University of Miami head coach Larry Coker showed the humility this situation calls for in his ESPN interview. Coker said he can’t imagine sending his players back on the practice field in the wake of such a terrible tragedy. Miami’s Saturday game against Washington has been canceled.

Whether any or no games takes place this weekend is not the important thing. What is important is that this country pay tribute and respect to those who lost their lives Tuesday and those who risked and gave their lives in attempts to save them.

The honor and respect of this country outweighs any game played on a field. Each and every game starts with the playing of the national anthem. It’s obvious that respect for this country and its true heroes should come first, above and beyond a group of men playing games. That leaves just one question for individuals like Bowden: “Oh, say can you see?”