Editor: (This letter was submitted by a resident who is in Russia for the World Cup.)
In all three games (I have watched live) the energy has been electric. The fans of the teams have been unbelievably passionate and cheer on their country with enthusiasm that I have never seen or felt in Vancouver.
On my arrival in St. Petersburg, I met a smiling and helpful customs officer who genuinely welcomed me to Russia. As a Canadian customs officer at the border in my 20s, it was all about me being an authority figure and the public being a commodity. So this friendly behaviour caught me by surprise. Then, everytime I meet someone new, a smile would occur once they knew that I was a Canadian.
I am glad that I am a lifelong learner.
Charles McGill, New Westminster
