The FIFA World Cup is something else. I love the football, the competition is everything I wanted it to be. But it's the people that makes it special.

They come from everywhere and they bring their whole selves with them. The Scots are all bagpipes and singing. The Japanese fans are unfailingly respectful, cleaning the stands after every match. The orange army from the Netherlands dances in unison, marching through the streets and swaying left to right. The Argentinians jump and chant without end. And the Mexican, American, and Canadian fans welcome everyone like family.