Thursday, April 07, 2011

ROLE -MODELS FOR OUR GENERATION 🏏



Dreams do come true!!! For some like Sachin Tendulkar, it takes all of 22 years to become a reality; but eventually, the long and seemingly endless wait, bore fruit. For others, the wait might not seem like one at all, as in the case of Virat Kohli, who played his first ever World Cup and reaped rich dividends almost instantaneously. 

Over the last weekend, when the enthusiasm of almost every Indian rose to a fever pitch, as India won that elusive 'World Cup' after 28 long years, I joined in the revelry as well, in my own small way. I was overjoyed too. The excitement was thoroughly contagious; and it managed to rub off, even on the most confirmed cynic of the game of cricket.🏏

I've always loved the game though, and am proud to say that I've stood by the Men in Blue, even at times when they were down in the dumps and ridiculed by the world at large, for not performing well-enough. So, this win was a truly stupendous moment, and one that I will cherish forever in my memory. 

Although I was around way back in 1983, I was only about 4 years old then; and so I don't even have a faint recollection, of that momentous occasion. So, for me this World Cup win, is the first one that I will be able to remember, for a long time to come. It's a story I will be able to tell my grand-children some day, cause I was here when it happened.😊

There were a number of special moments in this World Cup, and a number of people who made this event something to remember, for a long, long time; but I'd like to write about two special people that I'm really, really happy for and proud of. When I think of this World Cup win some years down the road, the faces of these two individuals, is what will stay with me.

The first one of course, is Sachin Tendulkar. While it was his dream to hold that Cup one day; and his entire team worked so hard, in order to make that dream of his a reality, it was also a desire in my heart, to see Sachin conquer that one final summit, in the game of cricket, that had eluded him even after 6 World Cups.

Like scores of others, I too have always admired the 'Little Master' for his dedication and perseverance. He has a steely resolve and an undying spirit in him, that just refuses to give way. I admire the way he just gets better and better as the years go by, maturing like wine into the best you've ever tasted. It's been 22 years and he still seems to possess the energy and the determination to keep going for a few years more. 

Already into my 30's, I sometimes feel the strain of life catching up with me; but Sachin somehow manages to overcome every hurdle along his path. He truly is an 'Inspiration', to the world at large; and I'm proud to say, I was born in the same generation as him, and lived when he walked the face of the earth. Men like him are born just once in a lifetime; and I'm glad I've been around, to witness his various achievements.🌟

Without doubt, the second person I was really proud of, was our 'Captain Cool' - Mahendra Singh Dhoni or 'Mahi', as he is often lovingly referred to. His composure on the field, has been spoken of by many. His tactical decisions and his straightforward approach, have also been applauded by one and all. 

Over and above all of these qualities though, what stood out for me about MSD was his humility. His ability and willingness to take a back seat, is what had been most commendable. Right through the tournament, he led from the front; but when it was time to bask and revel in the glory, he didn't hog the limelight all by himself. Instead, one had to struggle to find Dhoni in the images in the newspaper, the day after the historic win. He just blended into the background so effortlessly; and so, what we saw was 'Team India', and not just the Captain who led the team.👏👏👏

I think that was the most outstanding mark of his 'Leadership'. I admire a Leader like him who can be Humble, even in the face of adulation of this proportion. To be able to stand his ground and not get carried away in the moment, is something that I am so proud of him for. I hope that MSD will continue to be as humble as he was in those winning moments always, because it is that one quality of his, that has made him rise up even higher in people's estimation.👍

The World Cup is now over; but those proud and joyous moments will live on. I may never meet Sachin or Dhoni in my life-time. My acquaintance with them, may just be restricted to the images I see of them on the T.V. screen, every time they step onto the field; but these two men, have left an indelible mark on my heart. 

More than their ability and mastery of the Sport itself, it is their 'human qualities' that have touched me and appealed to me. I pray that they may always be blest in all that they do.✨️💕