Kyle loves soccer...ever since I've known him he has been a huge soccer fan, so this was a real treat for him. I have actually been watching FSC (Fox Soccer Channel) at night because that is what he has on most evenings, and I don't watch TV anyway so I'm not missing anything else. And it makes me feel connected to him. My friend in Azerbaijan is a maniac Manchester United Fan. He is from England...no surprise. Boy can he talk Futbol! Not sure who Arsenol is, but I imagine it's the Ethiopian team.
From Kyle:
The day was good. The pace has slowed considerably.
This morning, I went with John and Ashrat to the bank to open a new account for the Ettu Oromo ministry. Then, John and I went to a leather goods shop, but neither of us purchased anything.
This afternoon Jose called and invited me to go watch the big Premier League Soccer match Arsenol vs. Manchester United. It was fun to experience the way Ethiopians enjoy their soccer. There were probably 150 of us watching together on a TV. We had to pay 10 bir (approximately 12 cents) to get in. The game ended in a draw 2 - 2, which was really a win for Arsenol as they stay atop the Premier League standings. I don't think Jose and the guys are used to seeing an American enjoy watching a futbol match. There was only one other white person in the place (looked to be 14 or 15).
Then, tonight John and I went to the Zebra club for dinner. It was good. I had peanut chicken and rice.
Just two more showers here and then I'm on my way home. Can't wait to see everyone.
I love you,
Kyle
2 comments:
There is nothing like watching soccer in a country where they adore it, especially when their team is playing. About ten years ago I was in Rome when Italy was playing for the World Cup. We stayed in a nunnery (they rented out rooms to travelers - very interesting!) about 4 blocks from Vatican City. Our room had a little outside patio with a few chairs. One afternoon I was relaxing out on the patio and had the scare of my life when screams, yells, hoops and hollers came from everywhere! It had been so quiet, and then noise literally from every imaginable corner - probably even from the Pope! Italy had scored a goal - and the whole city was celebrating - it was an unforgettable moment.
Donna, that's so cool! When Kyle was staying in the hotel, he was convinced there was a soccer stadium nearby because of all the loud cheering. There wasn't. That was just the sounds of the people crowded around the televisions when Arsenol was playing. What passion!
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