Love at first sight

I must have been ten. My dad took me somewhere. I don't even remember the reason. He went to get his errand done and I was to wait in my dad's old beaten up blue jeep. That's where I heard people clapping and shouting. I assumed some kind of show being performed.  I couldn't content my curious little self. 

I  followed the direction of the really inviting noise. It wasnt much far , just a few steps behind our jeep. I reached the scenario. I saw a huge crowd, cheering and eyes glued. It was a basketball match.

Those where in the early 90s in a small place called Bumthang. Bumthang was very far from all  the modernisation and was considered a remote place.I was familiar with basketball. I saw my brother in the court every day. I never really cared, until that evening. 

What caught my attention was among the men playing basketball, I saw a lady too. For me that was the first time seeing a lady play amongst men. Oh, and she was so smart. She wore a purple short slacks and a white t-shirt. She tied her long black hair way up pony, she was tall and fit,  and when she made her score , my jaw dropped down. Right then and there I knew I wanted to be like her.

Growing up in a remote place, to see such a sight, during those days was a great opportunity. Ever since that day, I have never looked back. I always imagined myself to be that fine lady and practiced religiously. Of course, it was not until another few years I played for my class, 
then my house and then my school. I enjoyed the game so much. Having a bad eyesight was not a great help but that didn't slow me down either.I must have broken couple of glasses, till I could play well. I don't consider myself an awesome player and not being modest either. There is nothing I want more than to play basketball forever. I love the sound of the ball dribbling, I love it when my heart is about to burst, I love it when I am drenched in my sweat, I love the aniticipation, the fear and the focus, I love bonding with my team and ofcourse I love making scores.  I am satisfied with my endeavour, maybe in my next life, I can make it big ;-)

With time and responsibilities, my practice has dwindled. But I must say, basketball has been one of my best decision in life. I have so many memories to ponder on, made so many friends on the way, learnt valuable lessons, got enough scars as medals and later was able to influence my students as well. 

I do wonder about that lady. If I ever meet her, I would like to thank her for being my inspiration.

I reminiscence about my very first encounter and call it ' love at first sight'.