I’ve thought about how I would have responded if our women’s soccer team would have defeated Japan Sunday. For one, there seemed to be a peaking of elation with the defeat of the villain Marta and Brazil a week earlier. Secondly, I didn’t even know who won the US vs. France match until hours after it was over. And then Japan, the nation, not just the team, and knowing all her people have been through.

I felt this tension of, “yes I want our women to win, but does it have to be Japan?” I was only hoping our girls would show class after their victory and not let the typical American arrogance shine through. Then, upon being defeated…Disappointed? Yes, but in an odd way, it felt right. Can I say that?

I wonder if a US victory, even with the whole world watching, would have left us wanting and unsatisfied, even somewhat of a let down…just thinking.