The Unexpected Gift of the World Cup
I don't know if you're like me, but I've caught World Cup fever.
The United States winning big in its opening match certainly helped set the tone. Since then, I've found myself watching one, if not two, games a day. There is something about the World Cup that draws you in. The stories, the countries, the fans, and the reminder that for a few weeks every four years, the world's attention is focused on the same thing.
One of the games I watched this week was Argentina's match against Algeria. Like most of the world, I continue to be in awe of Lionel Messi.
I had the opportunity to see him play in person when Inter Miami traveled to Charlotte in 2023. Even then, what struck me wasn't just his ability. It was the way the game seemed to slow down around him. He sees things others don't. He makes difficult things look effortless.
On Tuesday night, the world got another reminder of that. Messi found the back of the net four times, though one was called back for offsides. He still left with a hat trick and another performance that reminded everyone why he remains one of the greatest players to ever play the game.
Recently, I came across an interview where David Beckham talked about Messi's commitment behind the scenes. Beckham emphasized that this level of excellence doesn't happen by accident. It is the result of years of discipline, preparation, and daily commitment. You can see it when he plays.
What also caught my attention happened after he was substituted out of the game. Messi sat down on the grass near the bench. Commentary mentioned there wasn't room available, and a teammate quickly stood to offer him a seat. Messi waved him off and stayed where he was. Maybe that's part of what draws people to him. Beyond the extraordinary talent, there seems to be a humility about him. A willingness to sit on the grass. To simply be one of the team.
Watching him made me think about craftsmanship. What does it look like to dedicate yourself to something over time? To continue refining, improving, and showing up long after the novelty wears off? In a culture that often values shortcuts and instant results, Messi feels like a reminder that meaningful things are still built through consistency, effort, and intention. Maybe that's one reason people are so captivated by him. He reminds us of what is possible when someone fully commits to their craft.
But if I'm honest, Messi wasn't my favorite part of the World Cup this week. My favorite part has been watching the fans. Who hasn't followed Freddy on X? Or watched the Scottish fans take over Boston?
There has been something genuinely enjoyable about seeing people from all over the world experience America firsthand. It has not been through a headline, a political lens, or a social media argument. It has been through actual people. The family sitting next to people at the games. The server bringing them a meal at a local restaurant or pouring the endless drink refills that Europeans have been raving about. The Uber driver taking them across town.
For a few weeks, the world is getting to experience Americans the same way most of us experience one another in everyday life. And what they're discovering is what many of us already know. People are often far better than the stories we tell about them.
We live in a time where it is easy to know people through narratives rather than experiences. To make assumptions. To reduce entire groups of people to labels, headlines, or political positions.
The World Cup interrupts that narrative. It reminds us that most people are simply trying to enjoy a game, connect with others, support their team, and create memories. There is something hopeful about that. Maybe that's the unexpected gift of the World Cup.
Yes, it gives us moments of brilliance from players like Messi. It gives us incredible matches and unforgettable goals. Though it also reminds us of something deeper; that community still matters and shared experiences still matter. That people from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds can gather around something bigger than themselves and find common ground.
For a few weeks this summer, the world has come together around a game. And somehow, that feels hopeful.
I'll certainly be tuning in on Thursday, June 25, as the United States faces Turkey in its third World Cup match. Whether you're a lifelong soccer fan or someone who has caught World Cup fever along the way, I hope you'll join in. Because beyond the goals, highlights, and scorelines, this tournament has reminded me that community, shared experiences, and hope still have a way of bringing people together.
Next week, we'll return to our From Stuck to Free series as we explore Pillar Three: Connection and the relationships that shape who we become.
About the Author
Sarah Currie, Ph.D., LCMHC, is a therapist in North Carolina. Through counseling and writing, she helps people navigate life's challenges, deepen self-awareness, and build meaningful connections.