What Does the Month of May Mean Nowadays?

The past year has been one of change, both for me, others, and the world in general.  The Month of May is no exception to that at all.  Last year's scorching, slippery race was met with general displeasure from the IndyCar community.  Some might call them spoiled for saying that after six years of intense, side-by-side racing throughout the entire race, but what they see is that racing is IndyCar's ticket back to the big time.  More recently, statements from Roger Penske, Chip Ganassi, and Michael Andretti about guaranteed entries in the 500 for full-time cars sent the community into a frenzy.  Both sides make valid points on the topic, but both viewpoints have negatives that may greatly affect the future of this great race and the series that it supports.  Anyways, the point is that many fans nowadays are scared of change.  After all, it is a race of tradition, right?  The pre-race festivities, skipping work/school on Carb Day, the eleven rows of three, they all contribute to that.  

That's the problem. 

All of these aspects of Indy contribute to the tradition.  However, Indy's most important tradition is what it means to its attendees.  Take Russell Van Treese.  He has been to 92 out of the 102 500s run.  92!  Do you think he or his family would care that much if there was guaranteed entries to the race?  No, I would care to bet Mr. Van Treese would be in his seats to take in his 93rd.  For me, I'm on my 13th.  This race is the day I look forward to the most every year.  My family's calendar revolves around my brother and I's activities 11 months out of the year, but for one month it revolves around what's going on at the track.  This year, we will add a fifth member to our group and introduce a new person to the 500.  Right now, they may not see it as any more than 33 cars running 200 circles around a track of asphalt.  But I guarantee that person will know what Indy means to me and my family by the end of the race.  

It is not the race that makes Indy, it's you, the fans.  Remember that and have a great Month of May.