World Cup

Germans are investing a lot in the World Cup this year. Not only are they sponsoring it (which puts all eyes on Germany) they are also competing in it. The hope is that both will bring Germany into the limelight, something that Germans have been hesitant to do ever since WWII. Not since the "miracle of Berlin" in 1953, which many think ushered in a new era of economic prosperity, has there been such an emphasis on the country and what it has to offer.

That is not for lack of trying. Germany, despite being the great force that it is in the European and world economy, has not received that attention that it deserves. But Germans themselves have contributed to this state of affairs: for instance, they don't even feel comfortable flying their own flag! The fact that the German flag has been in evidence during the World Cup has been explained as being "just for fun." There is no room for national chauvinism in the German mentality.

Of course this is a reaction to the events of WWII. It is doubtful that Germany will ever be allowed to forget the insanity that was the Third Reich. But many in Germany (and other places) think that it is time for Germany to be allowed to heal. Is this possible if the world will not forgive it? Is it enough that Germany forgives itself? That remains to be seen. And right now, all eyes are watching.