I went jogging on Sunday afternoon, and discovered a high school marching band competition taking place just around the corner. But I discovered more than that: I discovered a world in microcosm, a world made up of formations in lockstep, feathery shakoes, and polyester uniforms/superhero outfits. I discovered the story of an ancient and mighty empire: born in shackles, swelled in conquest, bloated in corruption. And, even more than that, I discovered a window into our next-door neighbor’s mind.

And what I found there kicked ass.

Forget spirit fingers,
we’ve got singing, dancing Spartacus! >&gt