2 decades in . . .

I'd been meaning to post a few thoughts on Michael Schumacher, and his drive in Montreal could not have come in more timely fashion.

Schumacher did not arrive in F1 quietly.    After his stunning debut with Jordan, two world championships with Benetton, sheer domination at Ferrari, and every controversial incident along a career which has spanned two decades, one could be forgiven for not seeing what remained to be accomplished.

When 2010 proved difficult if not out right embarrassing, Schumi became a target of doubt and skepticism from many of this most ardent supporters.      As Eddie Jordan so aptly stated, "a falling god now railing against his own mortality and risking that of others," 2010 served up plenty of ammunition for those who preferred that he had remained mythologically invincible in retirement.

2011 hasn't exactly been a return to the good ol' days.    Mercedes is not on par with Red Bull, McLaren, nor Ferrari.      Schumacher and teammate Nico Rosberg have so far struggled consistently in the midfield trying to peck their way into the higher order of those trailing Sebastian Vettel.

Schumi's perseverance to carry on despite losing immortality is indeed rare in this world which we live.    His willingness to face trial, humility, and defeat might ultimately prove a stronger testament to his sportsmanship than hiding safely behind mythology in retirement.

I'm glad he's back and F1 is a better place as a result.     It is clear to me that he loves driving, competition.  I am certain that he's still determined to show the "kids" on the grid that he still has what it takes.

I don't know that it is humanly possible for Schumi to return to the driver he was several years ago, but his drive in Montreal reminded me of the world champion who won, outright, the first 3 Grands Prix I attended.  

If only the Mercedes was capable of winning this season, it would be great to see Schumi back on the podium.