4 years ago at the end of May, I met Mr. Cheeseland. Just as our courtship was taking off (or should I say, as my aggressive pursuit of his time and attention), the World Cup was underway and this set the stage for many of our dates over those 7 weeks. As we got to know each other, my interest in following the games grew and we spent many evenings together and with friends, drinks in hand, watching intently. It defined that summer and it defined the beginning of what became a long-lasting love.
Unfortunately, I had to return to the States the day before the last game and watched lonely and depressed back in my apartment as France lost to Italy because of some hurt feelings and a head butt. I like to think France lost not because of Zidane’s inability to control his rage but rather because C and I weren’t watching the last match together. Nevertheless, the start of the World Cup 2010 interests me not so much for the game itself but for what it represents in our relationship. The ambiance the cup creates in Paris is unmistakable and I hope to spend many evenings over the…
