If you didn't have anything better to do with your time during the earlier parts of the day this summer, you probably watched a fair amount of the World Cup (or perhaps you tried your best to avoid the World Cup).

While the soccer was good and the general excitement over the spirit of competition was fun to watch, the real breakout star of the competition might have been Paul the Octopus, the resident of a German aquarium who successfully predicted the outcome of every Germany match and the Spain/Netherlands final. Sadly, like a candle in the wind, our prognosticating pal Paul has been taken away from us.

A shame, but as Neil Young said, it might be better to burn out than fade away. Plus, apparently octopi don't live all that long. Who knew?

Hopefully, you're predicting the outcome of soccer matches wherever you are, Paul. We'll see you at the crossroads.