World Cup Fever

And a fever it is... the cold I developed two days ago has now been joined by a raging fever of 104 degrees. I haven't been sick like this in years. Niru Auntie, the wonderful mother-type figure that she is takes such good care of me and insists that I rest. I guess I'm too used to the independent life at UCLA, but it feels so good to have someone watch over you and pamper you with fresh juice and soup... mmm.

I missed the 3rd place game between Germany and Portugal because I slept through it. The next day is no better, but I resolve to watch the Final game between Italy and France no matter what. Moreover, I've scheduled to meet up with Dipti didi, a close family friend I can't wait to see. The antidote for the World Cup now is simple - forced sleep and rest all day despite the burning desire to run and fly outside.

It works! I meet up with Dipti didi for dinner in Thamel. We spend a few hours in great conversation. We exchange old anecdotes and share research interests. I love the work she's doing! She's working on her Masters on International Relations and developing programs for biodiversity conservation and sustainable agriculture. Perhaps its from my dad who did similar work, but I've always been fascinated by rural development work. Still, I have my own reservations against this type of a "development industry." Although the ethnographer in me wants to pursue anthropology for graduate school, who knows... there are certainly plenty of great options out there. Whatever it is, I know I'm drawn to the everyday concerns of ordinary people, conflict-ridden communities, and issues of social equity.

And speaking of social equity, regardless of socio-economic status or political affiliation, just about everyone across Nepal has their eyes glued to the television screen, fists raised in solidarity for Italy or France to win the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Dipti and I go to the Maroon Lounge in Thamel with a few friends to watch the game on a large projection TV screen. The atmosphere is wonderful. I meet an old friend's brother and have a good time re-living old experiences at St.Xaviers High School.

I have my heart set on Italy to win - mostly because I recall watching the World Cup Final in 1994 and cheering on Italy to beat Brazil in the final game, only to see them bitterly lose in penalty shootouts. Well, this game was certainly similar - tense, aggressive, tragic, and beautiful. Only this time, Italy's tenacity and persistence allowed them to emerge the victor in the shootouts.

The streets of Thamel are packed with hordes of Nepalis. Dipti points out the transvestite scene that I never knew existed in Nepal. Since she has an early 6am trek to embark on in the morning and since I too am pretty tired, we head home.

Dreams of playing football on the sandy flats of Mer de Noms with Sting entertain me through the night.


Walking on the moon,
Jeff