As a missionary in the north-eastern part of Brazil (the Teresina
mission, known to be the poorest mission in the country- I once heard it called
“the Mexico of North America”), I had the privilege of experiencing “futbol” at
its finest. I am a huge fan of soccer;
played ever since I can remember. I knew
I would be in the soccer capital of the world during the World Cup, and knew it
was going to be especially crazy in such a violent area. I was quite nervous because I had already seen
“crazy” with gun shots and gangs.
 |
| (at least in this party we had not beat up each other the day prior...) |
In a city where wreckless
driving, dead animals, violence, drug dealing, and pop music at ear-drum
breaking levels is a daily (and nightly) occurrence, you can imagine the abnormality
of a moment of peace and quiet. I knew exactly
when the kick-off was about to start because friends, families, and enemies alike gathered together to unite for a common cause.
I would think, “Hey, weren’t you two beating each other up yesterday?” Turns out in ancient Greece, the city-states
were often at war, but would make a truce in honor of the Olympic events and
its travelers. Wars were put on hold, even
death penalties were suspended.
This is interesting and really says something about people and their love of community and culture over interpersonal conflict. I think it even poses a question about sociology/psychology--do we have different relationships with communities than with individuals even if those individuals are a part of that community?
ReplyDeleteThis is interesting and really says something about people and their love of community and culture over interpersonal conflict. I think it even poses a question about sociology/psychology--do we have different relationships with communities than with individuals even if those individuals are a part of that community?
ReplyDeleteYour writing style has very strong voice, which makes it really easy and natural to read. Keep it up!
ReplyDeleteComing from a family where sports weren't a big deal, it baffles me that people go all out and crazy for games and certain teams, but this is even crazier. To put a whole war on hold for the Olympics? That's one way to do it.
ReplyDelete