My Thoughts On The World Cup

With the exception of women's soccer in the 90's, I've never really watched a lot of the sport. So this year's World Cup, though not my first, is the first one I've really ever paid attention to, and I just wanted to take the time to point out a few things that I've noticed so far in group play.

THE US GOT ROBBED: It is true, the US got robbed in what would have been an amazing come from behind victory over the Slovs. However, it is important to point out; the US should have never been that position. As anyone who has ever played sports knows, anyone can win a close game.

THERE ARE A LOT OF DIVA"S IN SOCCER: And you thought American athletes are bad. I have never seen so much internal team fighting in my life. No wonder smaller countries with players you've never heard of are winning upsetting the pot, they play as a team. Soccer Diva's, SHUT UP and play!

TOO MUCH BUZZING: If you've watched a game on TV, you've probably noticed that there seems to be a serious bee problem in South Africa. Every game, no matter which stadium, you can hear them swarming outside. I'm very much concerned for the safety of the people there in South Africa.

I HATE THE FRENCH: Not only did they lose to the Mexicans, but then they scored against the South Africans, preventing them from moving on to the next round, thus, allowing the Mexicans to move on to the next round. Yeah I know, there was a lot of in-house fighting going on with the team, but if you are going to quit, quit.... don't let the Mexicans move on. Do you know how much "Viva la Mexico" crap I've got to hear now? Of course it's no shocker that the French dropped the ball here. That county has a history of under achieving. I've listed my top five list of greatest French defeats.

5) Waterloo - Napoleon's forces lose the decisive battle to the coalition army commanded by the Duke of Wellington, thus putting an end to Napoleon's 100 days return from exile. Maybe had Napoleon stayed out of that phone booth with Bill and Ted, things might have ended differently.

4) World War I

3) The French Men's 2010 football club's performance in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

2) World War II

1) Lance Armstrong - Much like the Germans, the guy owns the French, and no matter what they do, they can't beat him.

Loss of Glory

Initially I was going to write about my trip home with Heather last week and how it was nice to finally have a real vacation. However, something happened today that actually saddens me the more I think about it. Today, the great John Wooden died. Understand, I don't use the term loosely, and in my opinion this man's greatness has nothing to day with his unbelievable coaching career. No, John Wooden was a great man for all he did off the court, for the little things he did in everyday life. I am saddened by the fact that the death of this great man symbolizes the end of an era. It's the end of the great generation. These are the men and woman who suffered the great depression, brought in the new deal, and fought and won World War II. This is the generation that despite everything, were willing to sacrifice their lives for something greater than themselves. Men like John Wooden, and my grandfathers represent those people. They had a sense of honor that unfortunately is very rare in today's world. Soon all of these great men and woman will be gone, and it saddens me when I look around, and realize that nine out of every ten people I see have no idea what I am talking about. Anyway, I just wanted to say that. Next time I'll get back to the good stuff. Till then, remember those who came before you. After all, if it wasn't for them, you would be sitting where you are today. Oh by the way, hat's off to Heather's family for making being wonderful and making my trip exactly what I needed... mostly.

JLP