“Beyond the Paddle”

“In the game of life, it’s not about winning or losing, but who we choose to play alongside.”

Embarking on a 14-days fellowship training at YMCA Poona, little did I anticipate that my mornings would be transformed by an unexpected encounter with four table tennis enthusiasts in their early 50s. Each day at 8 am, like clockwork, they gathered with a shared passion for the swift, rhythmic dance of the table tennis ball. As a mere spectator initially, I was soon welcomed into their circle with open arms, turning this happenstance meeting into an unforgettable chapter of camaraderie, mentorship, and enduring friendship.

From the sidelines, I watched their seasoned moves, the swift exchanges, and the sheer joy that emanated from their games. It didn’t take long for them to sense my affinity for table tennis. In a matter of minutes, I found myself holding a borrowed racket, the gateway to a world that would shape the next 14 days of my life. Their generosity extended beyond the invitation; they graciously shared their personal rackets, each with its own tale of countless volleys and victories.

The joy I felt as I stepped onto the table was unparalleled. They appreciated my game, not just for its skill, but for the sheer love I poured into every serve and return. What began as a casual invitation evolved into a daily ritual, and soon, the clatter of the table tennis ball became the rhythm of my mornings.

These four individuals, whose names I came to know only much later, became more than just playing partners. They morphed into friends, brothers, coaches, and mentors. Their camaraderie extended beyond the table, shaping my daily routine and instilling in me a newfound appreciation for the game and life itself.

In the quietude of morning, sometimes, a gentle knock on my door heralded the arrival of these mentors. Their insistence on punctuality and discipline was a lesson in itself. It was not just about playing table tennis; it was about embracing the discipline, respect, and care that bound us together. They, in essence, became purveyors of life’s invaluable lessons.

The bond we forged transcended age, profession, and backgrounds. In their company, I learned the essence of brotherhood—of standing together in wins and losses, of encouraging one another to be better, not just in the game but in life. They made me feel special every day, ensuring that not for a single moment did I feel like an outsider in their tight-knit group.

On the final day of my training, as we shared a moment of revelation, the truth dawned upon me: these four individuals, who had become an integral part of my daily routine, were not just table tennis enthusiasts. They were, in fact, top bureaucrats. The realization left me stunned, for their humility and simplicity had masked their esteemed positions.

As we approached the end of this unforgettable chapter, we captured the essence of our newfound camaraderie in a photograph—a tangible memory that would forever encapsulate those mornings of laughter, competition, and shared stories. It was not just a picture; it was a testament to the connections formed, irrespective of societal roles and designations.

In the serene aftermath of the final game, we gathered for tea—a ritual that marked the end of our daily rendezvous. Amidst the aroma of brewing tea, we shared anecdotes, laughter, and reflections on the past 14 days. It was in these simple moments that the crux of our bond became apparent—it wasn’t about the titles we held or the roles we played; it was about the shared passion for a game that brought us together, transcending the boundaries of societal hierarchies.

“In the echo of the table tennis ball’s bounce, we found the rhythm of life, and in the silence of camaraderie, we discovered the true meaning of friendship.”

As I look back on those 14 days at YMCA Poona, the impact of those early morning encounters extends far beyond the strokes and serves of a table tennis game. It’s a testament to the unexpected connections life weaves, the lessons learned in the unlikeliest of places, and the enduring friendships that emerge when we choose to embrace shared passions.

The fellowship training may have ended, but the resonance of those mornings lingers—a reminder that life’s most profound lessons often unfold in the simplest of moments. In the company of these four extraordinary individuals, I not only honed my table tennis skills but, more importantly, imbibed the timeless qualities of brotherhood, respect, care, discipline, and punctuality. And for that, I am eternally grateful, for it is in the game of life that I truly discovered the beauty of playing alongside those who enrich our journey in ways we could have never foreseen.