For years, the World Cup had been something I watched from a far. I had only seen it happen on TV, watching through broadcasts, and highlight videos. I had seen other countries turn their streets into celebrations, seen fans crying tears of joy, and strangers embracing each other after goals. 

For the first time in my life, the World Cup was coming to my home country, the United States. And with a bit of luck, my family and I were able to get tickets to one of their games. After landing in LA, it already felt like a different atmosphere. Visitors exploring the states for the first time, jerseys from all over the world, and a lot of red, white, and blue. 

As I headed toward the stadium, I understood I was not just going to another soccer game. I was going to watch an important part of history from a fan perspective. I knew it was a memory that I would never forget. 

While walking into the stadium, you could hear chants, see flags waving, people in jerseys, as well as volunteers, vendors, and fans filling up every bit of space. It was an atmosphere and event like I've never seen or felt before.

Something that didn't even cross my mind before walking in the stadium was the amount of fans I would see from the opposing country, Paraguay. Seeing them cheer on their country and representing a nation I was not very familiar with gave me a sense of how important this tournament is to everyone around the world. 

When the national anthem began, the loud crowd suddenly became unified. Some fans had tears in their eyes, some singing loud and proud, and some just standing and taking it all in. It was a similar vibe when the Paraguayan national anthem played, showing how important consideration for others and respect is even in competition.