World Cup Break

Dear Chicken Nugget,

Once again, I find myself writing after a long hiatus.  I apologize for the lack of letters over the last few weeks.  I do have a good excuse though, the World Cup!

Nugget, the World Cup 2010 just ended yesterday (Spain beat the Netherlands, 1-0, and are now the World Champions) and the next one won't happen until 2014.  By the time the next World Cup comes around you will be around four years old and on your way to school, God-willing. 

I hope that by that point you will be able to join me in watching the excitement that is World Cup soccer.  I hope that you'll enjoy futbol as much as I do. 

I'd like to think that my letter writing won't drop off during the World Cup 2014, but I make no promises.  The good thing is that you'll already be around and understanding most of the words coming out of my mouth.  So, even if letters aren't being written, you'll be experiencing the action alongside me.

Now that the World Cup is over, I'll use the free time I spent watching soccer to instead build furniture for your room, clean out the apartment, and get other things ready for your arrival.

I'm looking forward to sharing World Cup excitement with you in four years!


Eternally yours,

Your papa

Sometimes God laughs at our soccer prayers

Dear Chicken Nugget,

There's a famous film director named Woody Allen who once said, "If you want to make God laugh, tell him about your plans."

I've come to believe that God also laughs at prayers during sports events.  Look around the stadium during the last at bat in the bottom of the 9th inning when the home team needs a run for a tie or a win.  There are thousands of fans praying.  Or watch the people in the stands during a penalty kick in the 90th minute when the home team desperately needs a goal.  There are thousands of fans praying.

My personal belief is that God doesn't involve himself in sports events, there are bigger fish to fry in the universe.  But, I sometimes imagine God sending a gust of wind one way or the other just to have a good laugh at fans' reactions during these nail-biting moments. 

One day I'll have to tell you about the World Cup 2010, the first one ever held on the African continent.  Especially the part about how the United States had a very dramatic First Round (which at the time of this entry isn't over). 

Just a few days ago I posted a prayer on the official NY Red Bulls fan blog at NJ.com (yes, your dad is officially a blogger for NJ.com).  I prayed:

Dear Lord, Give our boys the strength, speed, and focus to kick Slovenia back to Europe where they belong.  Amen.

You know what God did?  He laughed.  Slovenia went up 2-0 in the first half and the U.S. came back in dramatic fashion to tie the game - but no win.  So much for sending Slovenia back to Europe.

The point, Chicky, is that God has a great sense of humor; especially in sports.  If you ever need proof, become a Mets fan like me.


Te quiero siempre,

Tu papa