Patriotism

These days, wherever I go, it is hard not to spot the England flag. Be it hanging from a window, printed on someones shirt, or fluttering at the back of a car, it is everywhere. All of this is to cheer on the England team participating in the World Cup.

I love how patriotic the English are. The English football team has not won the World Cup (nor the Euro Cup) since 1966, yet every other year when the football tournaments occur, the English cheer them on no matter what. They stick behind their country even if history and fact are against them.

I was at a small gathering with and the topic of the World Cup came up. A Filipino commented that it was all a bit too much, all this hype and cheering for the team. Is there such a thing as too much patriotism? Of course there is, when people resort to violence to prove their point. But I do not think it is too much to wear white and red (the England colours) during days when there are games, or fly St.George's cross everywhere.

This is not to say the English are not realistic about their chances. I spoke to a couple of people at the local pub, and as much as they cheer on, they also know that at their current form, it will be difficult to beat teams such as Spain and Argentina, should they encounter each other in the future. But it is always nice to know (especially if you are on the English squad) that your country will back you up no matter what.

I wish Filipinos had the same nationalistic pride as the English.

Life is Beautiful!