Thinkable thoughts

As years pass by, we have world events and competitions that takes place. Sports have always had the remarkable ability to bring people together across borders, languages, and cultures. They inspire discipline, teamwork, resilience, and hope. For many, they offer a much-needed escape from the pressures of everyday life. In an increasingly divided world, shared moments of joy are valuable. Yet I cannot help but ask: when does celebration become spare?

Whether Argentina, Spain, England, or any other nation wins the battle the reality remains unchanged. A trophy is lifted, history records another champion, and life continues. The sun rises the next morning, children go to school, people like me return to work, businesses reopen, and families carry on with their daily lives and this is how the rhythm goes.

I was astounded to hear discussions about schools in Kerala being shut because of football celebrations going viral. While such choices may be made with good intentions or local enthusiasm, they also prompt a larger question: should our institutions pause for an event that is, ultimately, entertainment? Stimulatingly, many countries with teams competing at the highest level continue their daily routines.

In today's rat race world, there are countless stories that deserve our attention. These victories rarely trend on social media, yet they have a far greater impact on our collective future than the outcome of any football final.

Mathew Litty,
Dubai