Was preparing to walk out of the school to head home when my basketball team's bus came roaring in after the girls' defeat on their first match. Usually at this time last year, the girls will get a good trashing down for all their half-hearted efforts and bad court attitudes that often cost them victories despite their potential.
As their bus came to a stop before my eyes, I decided to stay and watch them alight with a heavy heart. One by one they came down, with their eyes red and tears welling up in their eyes. They must have been crying throughout the entire journey.
I know for the past year they have been training very hard, going through extreme sharpening of their characters and withstanding constant scoldings, punishment and half-a-day long training sessions 5 days a week. I saw them evolve from a prideful, stubborn and divided team to a committed and passionate one. Knowing the strong opponents they have to face in their first round, I know how important their every match was. I felt so sorry.
As I stood stupefied searching for words to comfort them, something moved within me and I reacted enthusiastically, "Let's go for lunch together! My treat!"
And kids being kids, some took the bait! (Who doesn't like free meal right?) Then soon many followed suit after much persuasion. We went to the nearest eating place and everyone ordered whatever they wanted. We sat down for a meal, revisiting the entire match that which has caused them so much distress earlier.
Now, 30 minutes after leaving the eating place, I look back and recall their uplifted faces looking chirpy and bubbly even after a sad defeat that might cost them a chance into the second round, I am still telling myself it is the best unplanned 50 dollars spent ever!