Designs of the Heart

A decade and half is a long time to realize that as the purpose in life, there would be no better option than cheerleading. The thought struck me as I saw the cheerleaders during a cricket match. Whenever a bowler, batsman or those in the field performed exceptionally well, the whole crowd cheered. Yet there was the necessity of a group of trained individuals to pep up both the teams as well as the spectators. I suppose the idea behind it is to make the most of that particular moment of achievement.

          You get to see such groups in amusement parks, gardens and other tourist spots. People come to these places to relax and unwind themselves. Even at these places if such groups are considered a necessity, then I suggest a similar arrangement in all zones of human activity. Considering the hectic pace and the monotony of the workplace, cheerleaders should be appointed there on first priority.

They will surely give due credit to the new age “mantra”—i.e. ‘to make the most of the moment.’ Happy workers increase productivity to a great extent and the co-coordinators in almost all institutions are working towards turning their official premises into happy places.

           While observing the proceedings of a small programme, I realized that it was churning out a lot of disinterest among the audience. It was quite evident that it lacked vibrancy.

Each one at the receiving end indulged in their own style of criticism. Is it right to say that the participants lacked zeal? Each one, be it the participant or the organizer’s action packed performance surely guarantees the success of any programme. Every moment being precious not a single individual can afford to slacken as it may affect the mood of others around. If an attempt at organizing things beautifully fizzles out, then ‘the next time’ would never see the light of the day.

          In a gathering, often you hear of people talking of a glorious past and it is always true. I remember a striking personality, who was a member of our church many years ago. He would always sing and pray loudly. He also used to make it a point to stay back after the Mass to wish and laugh with all the parishioners and not to forget the human strain within us as we also occasionally denounced his mannerisms as being too showy and pompous. 

As his retirement date approached, he shifted his residence to stay with his children. He became the pride of another parish and we are still struggling to subdue our envy. Whatever be our contribution, we need to throttle it to the full is what I learnt from him. Only then can we expect the same from others. I too incurred a couple of glares and stares from those around, when I attempted to recreate his magic spell.

An explosive leader or a responsive audience on whichever side we are, we need to give it our best shot. The wisdom of the old, the vitality and energy of the youngsters, the consistent persistence of the middle aged and the pure innocence of the kids, all pooled together can form into an invincible group.

If we redirect our energies, each one becomes a bundle of enthusiasm. What more can we ask for?