Football

While coming back from office, I prefer to walk. Its less than 5 km from office to home. And the road is not too bad. A little dusty, a little uneven. But not too bad. I dont do it for health reasons. I just like to walk this patch. I feel relaxed. Walking is the best stress buster.

I know all the cats and dogs on the way. I stop and greet when I see them. They know me and come running if they see me from afar. Its amazing that they can recognise me. I feel like a mini celebrity.

Sometimes I see old people crossing the road with a lot of effort. Makes me feel a bit sad. I see a lot of sincere people working hard, fruitsellers and hawkers, and young kids getting down from crowded train returning from a hard day at work. Most of them look busy and mostly happy. But I know everyone is fighting their own battle.

Sometimes I stop to watch kids play football or cricket. I am never too busy to miss a good match. Today this kid kicked the ball hard and it hit me. So I playfully said, 'I wont give the ball back'. He sensed trouble. Before he gets upset I challenged him, 'beat me in juggling and take it back'. He did beat me. So, I had to give back the ball. But to make up for the trouble, I bought a new one. He and his friends were super happy.

A fan of Zidane and Madrid, and with cheeky sense of humour, he told me, "hey Zidane, will you select me for Real Madrid?" I quipped, you will surely make it to Royal Bhandup!

Giving up the car did wonders for me.