Everyone's A Geek

The term "geek" has always had negative connotations. The stereotypical picture that is usually painted is one of someone who is socially inept, unkempt, and generally considered "weird". However, I don't think that is a fair representation of what a geek actually is. In my opinion, a geek is someone who shows a strong passion for something and is completely immersed in a particular topic, subject, or subset of culture as a whole. While this may include the traditional "geeky" things, (like Star Trek or Dungeons and Dragons, for example)geeks can come from all aspects of life. Take me for example. I am a self-proclaimed "sports geek". I am constantly checking stats, facts, and figures about not only my favorite teams, but other teams around the leagues. Every morning I make the rounds on the handful of sports websites that I frequent and often check them a few times a day to catch up on the latest news. I know I am not alone either. I have a friend who is so obsessed with sports culture that if you give him the name of any professional basketball player, he can name off what team they play for, what position they play, what college they went to, and in most cases, where they grew up. And sports are just the tip of the iceberg. Music, movies, automobiles, video games, all have strong followings that fit the description of a geek. I know people who are obsessed with food, computers, power tool, and pretty much anything else under the sun. All of them are geeks. The term geek, while not exactly viewed in a positive light, can be used to describe anyone and everyone who has a strong appreciation for something in their life. I am proud of my geeky tendencies and more people should be just as accepting as well.