World Cup Tao

I haven't blogged on sports lately but the just-begun World Cup has brought athletic competition to mind...

As I have noted in the past, I am a Taoist NY Yankees fan.  Some might find that paradoxical (how could a Taoist be a Yankee fan?) to which I would respond, as I think Zhuangzi would: since life is generally paradoxical than any particular paradox is rather normal...

I have less strong affiliations when it comes to soccer (football).  In high school I played a bit, mostly to keep in shape for track.  The Brazilians have always attracted my attention with their "joga bonito".  And some might find that fitting: the Yankee fan pulling for the Brazilians (and I must say I was sorry to hear that the current coach was setting a more defense-oriented strategy, one that might dilute the traditional beauty).

But as a Taoist (or, at least, as someone drawn to Taoist sensibilities) I know that attachments of all sorts, sports teams included, are transient.  They merely distract us from the natural unfolding of Way (Tao).  What matters is the flow of the game, the players expressing their inherent talents and capacities, the microcosm of Way in the competition: the ups and downs, the brilliant moves and the shocking mistakes, the the unexpected turn of events.

So, I will follow it.  I will root for the US over England (which has as much to do with my atavistic Irish identity as anything else).  And I will look for those flashes of Brazilian brilliance.  

Comments

[Chris Waugh]

"What matters is the flow of the game, the players expressing their inherent talents and capacities, the microcosm of Way in the competition: the ups and downs, the brilliant moves and the shocking mistakes, the the unexpected turn of events. "

And that, precisely, is the beauty of the beautiful game.

[The Rambling Taoist]

I try not to hold it against you that you're a Yankee fan! Personally, I'm a Taoist "Anything BUT Yankee" fan. Go Red Sox! :-)