Another article prompted this but in the comments there was someone talking about UGA's loss to Texas. They were discrediting the win because UGA was not motivated and therefor Texas's win isn't as valid. Now, my thoughts on this apply to pretty much every facet of life, not just the the Sugar Bowl
I know of this will be come down to semantics and context so it is a general rule, not a hard line
An excuse to me is a failure. It means you had shortcomings that were in your control and you messed up. UGA not being motivated is an example. You losing and then saying it is because you did not give 100%. Well, the other team showed up to play. They are not responsible for you giving 100%. Using that excuse is embarrassing, shows a lack of class and respect, and it is done in a way to cheapen the other team's victory. Again, this can apply to almost anything in life and on an individual level.
A reason to me is completely different. It is something outside of your control. It has validity. Say the team gets the flu or food poisoning the night before. A thunderstorm stops a high scoring, back and forth game, where the opponent happened to have the ball last and they get the win. Whatever. But you did your best and circumstances outside of your control interfered. This does not cheapen the opponents win, shows more class and respect, and something that is understandable.
I do not think this a a "kids today" thing as there have always been excuses for personal laziness and shortcomings. And it does not mean you can't bring up the fact that UGA was not playing their best. But I think it should be said in a way to criticize UGA and not disrespect Texas. Again, just an example and the onus for my rambling. I am a few days away from getting married and about to be done with work for a couple of weeks so killing time. Thanks for coming to my Tedx talk
