As Ohioans bask in the summer sun, those of us in the southern hemisphere shiver in the winter cold. Indeed, soups are becoming the more popular dinner choice and extra blankets now layer my bed. While winter temperatures in Peru do not compare to ice and snow of some Ohio winters, the sunless mornings and chilly walks to the bus stop are a stark contrast to the first few hot summer months I spent in Peru. Receiving a few puzzled glances as I walk around Lima is not uncommon, as I only wear a light cardigan and scarf on most days. Peruvians bundle in their jackets and pea coats and hats for this weather!
One of my favorite experiences in South America is gathering to watch the World Cup-qualifying soccer game. Seeing the candid, expressive reactions of Peruvians throughout the game is priceless. Last Friday, Peru scored a goal within the first few minutes of its game against Ecuador. The team held the lead for a 1-0 victory...much to the delight of every single person in Peru. Unfortunately, Peru lost to Columbia the following Tuesday.
I am also thrilled to spend time with Hearts in Action, teaching English to a group of 5 to 8 students. Lesson topics have covered everything from basic verbs and vegetables to body parts and beginner phrases. I learn a lot about Spanish throughout this teaching process, and each of the children in my class have become special to me.
Time continues at an unbelievably rapid pace. When did the month become June? My goal during my remaining days in Peru is to take advantage of every opportunity that presents itself, whether it is spending a few hours in Central Lima at an art exposition or returning to the jungle for a two-day music festival.
Showing posts with label soccer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label soccer. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
El Fútbol
Below is an article that I wrote for The Marcolian about my experience abroad. Check out this story and others at http://marcolianonline.com/.
Now that I have watched a soccer game with my Peruvian friends, I can say that I have officially been amerced into the Peruvian culture.
On March 22, Peru faced its longstanding rival Chile in a game that would determine which team was still in contention for competing at the World Cup. In the days preceding this game, Peruvians spoke proudly of their country’s team, despite its losing record to Chile. Not a single Peruvian even considered losing as an option for this game.
On game day, red and white apparel donned countless individuals and many of the students at my university were talking about their extravagant plans for the game. Having a ticket to the game was envied.
I joined one of my friends for a small party in his home to watch the game. Observing the animated reactions of my Peruvian friends during the game was more entertaining than the actual game. The house would erupt into deafening screams and shouts whenever either team seemed close to making a goal.
Until the last 6 minutes of the game, neither team had scored a point; and, when Peru finally kicked the ball into the goal, every single person in the room jumped from his seat. Everyone embraced each other and ran hysterically around the room with tears in his eyes. Peru won the game.
A friend who actually attended the game confessed to his crying after Peru’s victory, and he was not the only one. Rambunctious, lively fans lined the streets of Miraflores. They were climbing on top of buses and passionately chanting the victory of their team.
In addition to this memorable night, I have experienced the Peruvian culture many diverse ways. Visiting Iquitos, the beautiful fountains in downtown Lima, and countless different beaches help amerce me into the Latin-American lifestyle. Needless to say, my upcoming trip to Machu Pichu is highly anticipated.
The longer I stay in Lima, the more I love the culture.
Now that I have watched a soccer game with my Peruvian friends, I can say that I have officially been amerced into the Peruvian culture.
On March 22, Peru faced its longstanding rival Chile in a game that would determine which team was still in contention for competing at the World Cup. In the days preceding this game, Peruvians spoke proudly of their country’s team, despite its losing record to Chile. Not a single Peruvian even considered losing as an option for this game.
On game day, red and white apparel donned countless individuals and many of the students at my university were talking about their extravagant plans for the game. Having a ticket to the game was envied.
I joined one of my friends for a small party in his home to watch the game. Observing the animated reactions of my Peruvian friends during the game was more entertaining than the actual game. The house would erupt into deafening screams and shouts whenever either team seemed close to making a goal.
Until the last 6 minutes of the game, neither team had scored a point; and, when Peru finally kicked the ball into the goal, every single person in the room jumped from his seat. Everyone embraced each other and ran hysterically around the room with tears in his eyes. Peru won the game.
A friend who actually attended the game confessed to his crying after Peru’s victory, and he was not the only one. Rambunctious, lively fans lined the streets of Miraflores. They were climbing on top of buses and passionately chanting the victory of their team.
In addition to this memorable night, I have experienced the Peruvian culture many diverse ways. Visiting Iquitos, the beautiful fountains in downtown Lima, and countless different beaches help amerce me into the Latin-American lifestyle. Needless to say, my upcoming trip to Machu Pichu is highly anticipated.
The longer I stay in Lima, the more I love the culture.
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