The game of hockey fires up it's fans more than almost anything in their lives. A lot of hockey fans care about hockey to such an extreme amount. But why? Well, its because the game itself has beauty. Follow me after the jump and I will share with you why I think so.

Hockey, a game of excitement, agony, tragedy and triumph. Players pushing themselves to the absolute limit of what they can do for a big silver cup. There's violence for sure, but that just adds to the story of the game. You have villains, heroes and bystanders (Brett Lebda), who write the story, act out the parts. All in all, when you really think about it, the game is exactly that, a story.

The game of hockey is an escape for some. People who are having a difficult time, or are just miserable can at least find solace that something they love comes on every week. For almost three hours they can escape wherever they came from and just enjoy something unique. Something beautiful. Sure you can play a video game, kill 50 people in Call Of Duty. But even that doesn't compare to what you feel when hockey comes on. At my worst level of depression, when I even contemplated suicide, I came home and turned on the tv knowing what was on. I had missed almost the entire game, it was near the end of the third. The Leafs were tied with Calgary, my role model, Mats Sundin was a goal away from 500. Overtime started and the Leafs were shorthanded. Tucker was called on a very weak hooking penalty and my heart sank. In an instant, Sundin powered down the left wing, wound up for a slapshot and boom. He did it. Kiprusoff rushed off the ice and Mats had a smile from ear to ear. My hero had saved the day. In a time where I was at my worst, indirectly my hero came through and for a short while, pulled me through it. The team celebrated and afterwards, the three stars came out. Sundin came out last and was greeted by thunderous applause. I was smiling for once until something happened. Captain Mats started to clap for the audience. In one of his milestone moments, he was giving thanks to the fans, to the people. He clearly didn't have to, but that was the definition of class and elegance. It was by far, my favourite and happiest moment in hockey. To me, that moment was the picture of beauty in the game.

Although hockey can be very personal to a lot of people. It's something best enjoyed with others. Going through the rollercoaster of hockey with someone, or even a group of people you care about is bliss. My father and I both loved the game. Although he was gone for most of the week working to provide for his family, we still shared something. Throughout all our fights, all our happy moments, there was always hockey. We could talk for hours about hockey, even a day after a big argument. It was something I shared with someone, and in turn, made my life a tad better. Seeing groups of people at bars or restaurants cheering and celebrating over hockey, having a great time. It brought them together, it made them leave their problems at the door and enjoy the time with friends, the camaraderie. It's beautiful.

I should wrap this up. I'm sure all of you have a personal story about the game of hockey. Share if you'd like, I'd love to hear back from you :)