I was not good at many outdoor activities or games, but loved to watch the challenging sports and used to cheer up my friends by whistling and clapping. There was a sports day in my school; I was probably 7 years old then. My elder sister was a teacher in my school, who was a part of the sports team. Just because I was her sister, she never was lenient to me, and in fact very strict with me, as I was very mischievous. She would advise me then and there to behave properly, and wanted me to focus on everything without distraction. But I was on my own and found pleasure in doing the funny things. All the participants were much older, and the sports event started. It was the spoon race — thus all the participants should hold the plastic spoon in their mouth, which contained the lemon, and they have to reach the pole within the time. But while doing so, the lemon should not fall. Wow! I found it very interesting, and I wanted to take part. So I started pestering my sister to allow me to play. My sister controlled me and scolded me not to behave like that, as everyone was watching her. But I was keen and adamant; thus I approached another teacher and requested her to give me a chance to take part. That teacher with a bit hesitation discussed with another teacher and they arrived at the decision of letting me to join that game. I was so scared to look at my sister who was very upset and angry with me. I started running towards the pole holding the spoon — and almost I was going to reach. But as I was much excited, the lemon fell down, and I could not reach on time. I felt very sad — but quietly waiting there as they were announcing the winners' names. ** But to my surprise, the organisers announced my name too!* They felt that I tried my best, and my perseverance has to be appreciated. They wanted to entertain me as I showed up my enthusiasm — and got their approval to take part too! Somebody hugged me — and it was none other than my sister! And I was truly happy. This experience motivated me to try hard to achieve anything. Even now, if there is any competition for poems or short stories, I always keen to try and make attempts — which brings not only the prizes but also the recognition… — Banooravi