Thursday, August 28, 2008

A Medal & Its Glory

Having witness a glorious extravaganza of Olympics 2008 at Beijing and with a record 3 medal tally for India, I am forced to share a very fond memory and experience with you. Hailing their fantastic run at the Olympics, I'd pleased to greet my wishes and congratulations to the Victors of millions of hearts Mr Bindra Abhinav, both Kumars Mr. Vejender and Mr Sushil.

Back to the topic, I have two very contrasting and yet related incidents to share with you. I am sure these are the points worth ponder upon and you'll agree later.

First I'll tell you what exactly a medal matters for a person. I was one of the participants in Junior High school & Primary school region level games being conducted at Almora way back 19995-96. I was participating in Junior High school(class 6th to 8th) level games. A Gymnastics competition in the primary games was about to begin and then my teacher came up to me and offered a strange proposal. He said "There are only three participants in this event overall. You look young enough to participate with primary students. You just have to participate & who knows you go on to grab an medal out of the three in stake." As I was a short fellow right from my childhood. (not an overnight miracle I mean). I refused it(the proposal) first, but due to his persistent pressure, I jumped into the ring. ( I don't know what Gymnasts say that. So beg serious pardon.) I was in an act in which I had never tried my hands on. The task was amazing and tough even though it was for lower level than I was at. I knew a couple of 'Asanas' and picked a couple of actions from there on the spot, from the participants who have performed prior to me. Irony of the situation I did not have proper inner wears. A 'Hanumaan chhap kachcha' in precise was that I had. All odd couldn't stop me because there was a strong encouragement from my teacher and that was enough. I fought & grabbed the third position out of four contenders and eventually won the bronze medal. A very little achievement but notable even today after more than 12 years down the line.

At that time I was shy enough to reveal the bronze medal glory won in primary(lower level) competition. I was showing only the medal which I secured in higher level competition, which was incidentally also a bronze.

But when I recall the incident now, it brings a new lease of freshness in my mind and body. I really admire the encouragement that Mr. N D Joshi instilled in me. He, as a dynamic, young and energetic leader blessed me with a medal on which I boast even today. This is how one gets success and happiness unexpectedly. This is what is the foresightedness of the leader which fetches wonders. I truly owe this article and that bronze medal to Mr. N D Joshi. That Gymnastics bronze medal has been more dear to me than the one which I won in Junior level competition in the same Games.

Another part of the story follows up...... To Be Continued...