The World Cup: All the Feels

It is summer 2026 and the World Cup is in North America this year. Forty-eight countries playing the beautiful game across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. From June 11^th to July 19^th, fans from all over the world are watching the same tournament.

It is two weeks in and I feel more connected to humanity than ever. The number of times I’ve cried, laughed, shouted, been in awe are too many to count. Each day brings an abundance of fun.

In addition to the football itself, I’m loving the camaraderie.  

The Tartan Army meets Boston—a match made in heaven.

The South Korean, Iranian, and Moroccan teams and fans feel en casa en México.

My fellow Americans showing up in droves to root for our USMNT.

Norwegians rowing up escalators, in stands, in Times Square.

The Oranjebus leading the charge in a sea of orange.

It is one big melting pot right now and this makes my heart so happy.

There are probably too many emotions for me to process at this time. Some say the World Cup is helping to heal the world. Some say that it is a display of how much we can get along if politicians don’t interfere. “Foreigners” are now “brothers” and our communities are welcoming each other with open arms. Heck, even Ranch dressing is getting some love!

It is the best of humanity.

How do we react when we see Japan lose in the dying minutes of a knockout game, leaving them utterly heartbroken? We hug them. We speak highly of them. We hold their head up and affirm they played their hearts out and gave it all they had. We lift them up (literally and figuratively).

How do we react when Cape Verde, a country most people (myself included) hadn’t even heard of before this tournament tied Spain, a favorite to win the whole tournament? We are proud of them and cheer them on. We add 17 million (and counting) followers to their goalkeeper’s Instagram account in support of him. We share the joy when they make it to the round of 32 in their very first World Cup.

We cheer, and mourn, and wake up the next day and do it all again. We experience love and loss knowing it is part of the game. We support our brothers and sisters and see the best in each other.

Football is so much more than a game. It brings people together. It uncovers every emotion.

My heart feels so much empathy right now and I have soccer to thank. I’ve watched hundreds (thousands?) of games in my life, and there is nothing like the World Cup.

And for some reason, this one feels extra special. Maybe it’s because I’m old enough to have perspective on the game and players; or because it’s in my backyard; or because it’s the biggest one yet; or because social media and digital storytelling are so accessible; or because we've been through the ringer the past few years; or maybe all of the above.

When it was starting to feel like we (the people) have little control in things, it now feels like love and respect have stepped in and showed us the way. And I am here for it!