Soccer (futbol) is king in Spain…and most countries in the world for that matter. If there were a Yankees of European soccer, it might be Real Madrid. They have the most money and can afford to pay the best players. They have an amazing stadium that is currently receiving a $1 Billion dollar make over so that it can be…even more amazing-er? The players are considered as gods by fans, not men. And some of the greatest players of all time have dawned the white jerseys. Our group was fortunate enough to attend a legends game which featured recent great players including Raul, Marcelo, and Tony Kroos. While these guys have lost a step, the quality of their footwork and passes is still there. I fear my over 35+ Iowa city men’s league team may not be able to keep up with this crew. ;)
A Turkish friend of mine has described the sport of soccer as the great equalizer and I think that’s accurate. It’s a game that is available to all so long as you have a ball and some open grass. It’s not uncommon to see young kids playing with a ball in the middle of the city in Madrid. I’ve played for a number of years and what I like most about this game is the fact that it requires team play in order to succeed. You have to communicate and trust each other. The ball has to be shared amongst all players. When a single player scores, it’s the result of a complex team development. And when a player scores, its lifts the entire team. For the reasons, it is often referred to as “the beautiful game.”
I’m guessing by now you can see where I’m going. The things I like about this game are the same things I like about Spain. Camaraderie. Teamwork. Sharing. This is so much of what makes this place great.
After the game, I was joined by a few of my students for lunch. We sat, shared some food and beverages, and enjoyed each other‘s conversation. It was hot out, but we were under an umbrella, which was also equipped with a fancy misting machine! (Note: Check dimensions of fancy misting machine.) I can’t yet tell if these students are just tolerating me and letting me tag along or if they genuinely enjoy my company. I’d like to think the ladder as I’m enjoying hanging with them. It’s an interesting relationship, teacher and students on a study abroad. While they are students, they’re also adults who don’t need to be told what to do. And while I’m their teacher, I’m also a human living away from my family. We need each other in different ways and it’s a delicate balance to strike. So far I think this is going quite well and I hope it continues.
Finally, today is me and my wife’s 17th wedding anniversary! It’s bittersweet. I’m sad that we’re not together. Mostly because I know how much she would love having a full day to explore, adventure, and enjoy the café culture of Madrid. That lady is a sucker for an umbrella, some twinkle lights, and a glass of wine! I very much look forward to sharing some adventures with her in France when the class is over. Happy Anny Brando!
Outside Santiago Bernabeu stadium in Madrid. There was a scarf sale.
I love this team motto. Makes you want to run out there and play doesn’t it?!?!
No comments:
Post a Comment