Sports to Unite People

Sports to Unite People

At the time of writing, we are at the start of the “FIFA World Cup” and in case you haven’t noticed, millions are watching this event which is taking place in Qatar.

This football competition takes place every 4 years to find the “best” country in the world at soccer.

As a football fan I have been watching as many games as possible – obviously shouting for England – as well as the USA.

I think that sport creates conversations by providing a common ground, and a unified sense of purpose. A love of the game and the passion brought to the field forges bonds between players and spectators alike - heroes are created in sports and can become positive role models for the team and wider community.

How many youngsters will be inspired by some of the goals that have been scored – irrespective of whether it was for their favorite team or not?

What I think is great is that some of the smaller countries have been beating the hot favorites and have shown such determination and commitment - it really is inspiring.

What does this have to do with a “spiritual” newsletter you may ask?

I think it shows how people from all over the world can be united with a common goal – to do the best they possibly can so their countrymen can be proud of them.

Is it important to win?

That is, of course, the goal of everyone participating, but I think what is more important is to see that we can cross boundaries of color, race, religion, and language and just play a common game for the fun of it.

Sport has the potential to unite people in times of extreme chaos and violence. Even in the most tumultuous of circumstances, sport gives people from all sides a respite from the endless conflict and violence and allows combatants to see each other once again as human beings instead of merely enemies.

A love of the game and the passion brought to the field forges bonds between players, spectators, and countries.

Many years ago, whilst on holiday in Barbados, it only took 48 hours for the waiters at the hotel to challenge holidaymakers to a game of cricket. The pitch was a bit of barren ground, full of bumps and holes in the ground – but it didn’t matter it was just for fun – but needless to say, the visitors were well and truly beaten. However, the holiday was enhanced by this game and the leg-pulling throughout our stay. I still remember being bowled out first ball!

You may be aware the during the first world war, on December 25th, 2014, England and Germany called a “Christmas Truce” and played a game of football in “no man’s land” between the trenches. All fighting ceased – there was good humor on both sides and for 90 minutes the war was forgotten.

Unfortunately, after the game, the war continued but I suspect it was on the orders of their commanding officers – not the players.

Despite that, it is important that we never forget these examples. They make us believe that nothing is impossible because humanity, all humanity, speaks the same language and responds to the same impulses, feelings, and appeals.

Sport is one of the ones that most contribute to connecting people all over the world – in healthy competition and respect for each other.

If each of us can have the same respect for each other – despite our differences – we can help start to create the world we want.

Try it and see!
Love & Light

 Roger

“For those who understand – no explanation is necessary – for those who do not understand, no amount of explaining will be sufficient”