Aftermath...

"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times", the opening line from a Tale of Two Cities epitomises the way I feel at the moment.  Now you may think, judging from most of the material on this blog, that I have just experienced a major life event or that some major incident that is potentially life changing has occurred.  And you may be right.  Like all things, the World Cup is coming to an end. 

For just over a month now we have been at the centre stage of the world hosting what is probably the most prestigious sporting event in the world today.  It has been reported that the number of tourists over the period has increased by twenty percent to one million, up by two hundred thousand, compared to the same period as last year.  What makes this different is instead of tourists moving around experiencing the beauty of our country, they are concentrated in the major cities of Johannesburg, which has three stadiums in close proximity, and Cape Town, which is considered one of the most desirable cities to visit.

The other world cup cities, have briefly experienced the influx of fans on match day, and only caught a glimpse of the energy and incredible spirit of the people.  Hearing people communicating with each other in different tongues, adds to the cosmopolitan feel of the cities and gives a feeling of being part of not just the African stage, but the World stage.  Something we as South Africans, because of our tainted past and the location of our country at the southern most tip of Africa, have never felt before.  Like it or not, we have been united by this event, to experience the best football teams the world has to offer and the tournaments spirit has overtaken us all.

The interludes between the matches as the final match draws closer found me surfing the channels for a dose of football.  I have made my way to the malls to walk among the crowds of people in order to imprint the feeling of elation and well being on my soul.  To be a part of and totally immerse myself in the experience. 

So when it all ends, I can recall and relive it all and take joy in the fact that I am a part of the human race and a proud citizen of Planet Earth. 

"Live long and prosper" :-)

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