This is what it’s all about. We said that when Curaçao scored its first-ever World Cup goal.
When Japan left our Dallas stadium and locker room spotless.
When Europeans discovered ranch dressing.
When Norwegians taught us Texans the Viking row.
As the celebrations from America’s 250th birthday and Spain’s world championship win come to an end, we can reflect on the good that happened during this World Cup. In today’s media landscape, finding hope within the news cycle can be difficult, but it’s something people yearn for.
During the World Cup, entire countries watched and felt seen and represented on the world’s biggest stage. Tears were shed in both joy and grief, and we did nothing but watch and support our team.
This is what it’s all about. We said that when Cape Verde entered the knockout round by defying the odds and making history.
When the world discovered the Mexican and South Korean peoples deep friendship.
When our Japanese friend encountered bottomless chips and salsa at a TexMex restaurant.
When Cristiano Ronaldo walked off the World Cup pitch for the last time, having dedicated his whole life to the beautiful game.
When Egypt went from never winning a World Cup match, to almost beating Argentina.
That’s not to say we can ignore what else has happened in the world during this month full of matches – but for one moment we were united, despite the rivalries. We were friends. We saw a slice of world peace. We spoke the same language.
Sports have a way of doing that. And whether you call it soccer or fútbol, it’s a universal language that is spoken by both players and spectators. Whether you are Norway competing against Brazil. Or Egypt against Argentina. We are all speaking the language of the beautiful game.
During this World Cup, North America welcomed visitors from all over the world. We got to show our culture and who we are as people, not the caricatures in the news.
The World Cup has always been an opportunity for host nations to tell their story. For the United States, it’s one of celebrating our differences and showcasing the heart of the American people.
At the Bush Institute, while we focus on both global and domestic policies, we know that everything starts at a local level – with our neighbors. What happens abroad matters here.
Because, at the end of the day, this is what it’s all about.
