So the World Cup has finally arrived, just like music, an international language that brings people together of all ages, races. genders, religions and sexuality.
The opening of the games was extremely symbolic, although Nelson Mandela was unable to attend due to a family berevement, I found it very beautiful to watch a black man and a white man in arms in the land that once was apartheid. Whatever people think of this matter, I find it satisfying to finally see this destruction of apartheid clear on television, a vision we certainly would never have seen 50 years ago and a clear direction that we are moving forwards in terms of accepting one another and becoming more understanding of colour and race and joining hands.
Another symbolic moment was the phrase "Africa's time has finally come, god bless Africa" in a land that can often be associated with poverty, war and famine. Perhaps the energy from the World Cup will bring more light to the land and open up attention to its burning issues that need addressing.
With one of the largest rich-poor divides in the world, we are all aware much activity is for propaganda and political reasons. The poor will remain poor when the tournament is over and money will be spent in the wrong places and the rich will probably become richer, however any press is useful and this may open up people's eyes for the future. Every little helps and with a spotlight now shining on Africa, will the rest of the world now realise once the fun is over, that it is time for change and time to see what it may be able to do for Africa and to give back.
All views are welcome, please speak your mind on this issue.
And enjoy the World Cup 2010
