WALKING MY WAYS
WALKING MY WAYS. Two days ago, I attended the World Cup. At Levis’ stadium, with its 68,500 visitors and pristine grassy field. Switzerland vs. Qatar. With three cousins from Seattle and Pennsylvania. After we braved fans, security, light rails and parking. 32 years ago, I took one of these same cousins to another World Cup, in Pasadena, when he was 13. Now he is 44 and taking his 13 year old son. And also taking me. Simply endearing. As were getting the tickets. As that required hope, luck, determination, and Love. From our Seattle cousin. Who supplied the magic.
They say that you don’t have to know soccer, to watch the World Cup. You just have to be open to the world wide hype. Which means crowds, laughter, joy, noise, stimulation, cheering, yelling, shouting, vivid colors, and the wild antics of thousands of crazy aficionados. With a myriad of fashions. Including my own, which was a bright red jersey. From Switzerland.
Surely, a single word can’t describe the World Cup. Not even ten. Other than pure exhilaration, camaraderie, warmth, (literally, as it was 90 degrees,) obsession, excitement, flags, drums, and on. With vast security all around. Including, police, sheriff and highway patrol. Volunteers galore. And happy onlookers. As it all is a giant party. Extremely well organized. Including the use of a wheel chair, for me. In addition to my walking 7,500 steps. And having a memorable bonding, with my cousins. Who made me smile.
And we had perfect seats. On one side, hundreds of Qatar men. In long, white robes, matching their immaculate white head gear. And maroon scarves. And on the other side, many Swiss. In Vibrant Red. And an abundance of face paint. With everybody being everybody else’s brother and friend. Regardless of their affiliation. Or nationality. Just an amazing and positive spirit and energy, all around, that you had to feel for yourself. And that stays with you for hours, days and even weeks, after arriving home. Though exhausting. Totally. Finis.
I am deeply impressed! The description of the game made even ME wish I had been there! Though I’d have insisted I be with YOU. At 77 with bone and blood cancer, I have to lie down after a shower to get the energy to brush my teeth. But I definitely enjoyed every minute of the soccer game with you. Thanks. Hans♥️
You never cease to amaze me (I have said that before). I remember you telling us about taking your cousin to a game in the past, and he promised to take you in return. This was the result of that promise. From my perspective, the day was massive, but your description of the brotherhood was soothing. Keep on keepin on, my friend.