Whether you're for or against the war in Iraq, surely this will warm your heart - a post from a local youth soccer forum:
"I sat second by second today cheering the Iraqi mens' team on, as they upset Portugal 4-2. I don't know how many matches the Iraqis have played without having their lives threatened by mistakes on the field-this is certainly one of the first really visible one on the international scene. (Realize some of them were tortured over bad games previously, making our worst poor coaching behavior look like nothing compared to the Hussains.)
I sat expecting them to get blown out by the Portugese team, but not so. They not only played well, but quite cleanly, very unlike the Portugal team that had some of the most blatant fouling I have seen in a long time. Their goalie was awesome.
This team only made it to the Olympics with the support of the US, Germany, and other countries contributing to their expenses. They had to practice outside of the country and in unknown locations for their safety.
It is my hope that somewhere in Iraq perhaps were some Iraqis and Americans sat watching together and cheering together what may turn out to be one of the moving moments in Olympic history, especially if they can go considerably further in the competition.
Here's to the sport of soccer that may contribute to uniting this country more than any of our military efforts. Here's to the men and women who gave their lives and limbs to allow Iraq to have the freedom to play the sport that we all take for granted."
AMEN!