Dance, dance! I was very much interested in doing dance. During my childhood days, I took part in many of the cultural events in school and won prizes. As I was growing up in the village, there was no such facility to learn dance or music — but I developed my passion towards doing the dance, and acting in dramas too. This particular incident happened when I was studying in the secondary school. In my class there were lots of friends always following me, as I used to crack jokes and did funny things to laughter. There was one girl who was rich and always showing off. She used to come in the car, distributing the quality chocolates and sweets for her birthday. She was very selective in choosing her group of friends, and always neglected me while playing the games. It hurt me a lot — are the people not all the same? ** It was the annual exam time. We had maths exam, and this girl was seated in the front desk. The question papers were given and we all started answering the questions. Suddenly I could see this girl burst into tears and sobbing. The teacher asked her if anything was wrong, or she was unwell. The girl replied that she had forgotten to bring her geometry box. I want to mention here that I always take two pencils, two erasers — and that day I took two geometry boxes. When the teacher asked whether anybody had a spare one, I came forward to give my box. The rich girl felt so happy, as she could do her exam nicely — and from that day onwards she started talking to me friendly. * It was the school annual day. I was selected for doing the princess role in the historical drama. The rehearsals were going on — when the teacher asked me whether I had any rich dresses and costume jewellery. I felt shy and panicked, as I didn't have such things. But to my surprise, this rich girl stood up, and assured the teacher that she had many and could offer to me. I performed well in that drama, wearing her things — and bagged a silver cup too! * As the saying means a friend in need is a friend indeed,* I always give importance to friendship. Each friendship ultimately makes us who we are; brings something new to our life; gives us a shoulder to lean on; and friendship is never anything but sharing. In fact, they are the new energy to our soul! — Banooravi