This is just a burst of feeling Ayush is experiencing lately. He recalls flashbacks as well as present to recollect his mind thoughts which needs to get out.
Cricket had been my companion through countless hours of practice, a silent witness to the relentless pursuit of my dream – a spot on the U-19 cricket team. Months had flown by in a blur of early mornings with the constant ambition in my chest. But lately, the rhythm of my life had been disrupted by a new force, unseen yet omnipresent – the global pandemic.
News reports flickered on the TV screen, the serious announcements of the anchorman a contrast to the usual Saturday night chaos in our house.
Mom was around the kitchen, battling with the news report for my attention. Dad, lazily unaware of the storm, clicked on a classic Bollywood tune, adding his own unique yet casual evening.
Even surrounded by the warmth of my family, a cold dread pooled in my stomach.
The U-19 trials, the culmination of years of dedication, now seemed shrouded in uncertainty. Would they even happen? Was this the year my ambitions would be sidelined by an invisible enemy?
Anxiety hit me BAD. I tried to find solace in the familiar banter between Neha and Ansh, the comfortable laughter of Tanmay, but their conversations felt muffled, a white noise against the roar of my own questions.
Loneliness, a familiar pain, tightened its grip. Being the popular guy, the one everyone wanted to hang out with, didn't erase this feeling. It felt strange, a hollowness amidst the fullness.
On the VC (VIDEO CALL)
Neha, ever perceptive, nudged me "Hey, what's got you in a tight knot?" she asked, her eyes filled with concern.
Taking a deep breath, I poured out my worries – the trials, the pandemic, the suffocating feeling even though I was surrounded by loved ones. Neha listened patiently, then a thoughtful smile touched her lips.
"Remember Kiara's speech about chasing dreams, no matter the obstacles?" she asked. "We may not know what the future holds, but you can't control that. What you can control is your effort."
Her words resonated deeply. Kiara, had shaken things up. Her unwavering belief in myself had pushed me to confront some of the unspoken limitations in our household, limitations that stemmed from love and protection, but limitations nonetheless.
(flashback)
I had spoken up, expressed my dreams, and found surprising understanding. There were new friends now, like Maya, Sanya, and Ansh, who cheered my passion for cricket. When we're together, our laughter echoing in the evenings, a support system I hadn't even known I craved back when the pandemic wasn't there.
Taking a deep breath, I decided to push forward. I started practicing even harder, the rhythm of the ball against the bat a comforting constant.
But then came the murmurs, the whispers of me 'pushing myself too hard.' The discouragement stung, leaving me feeling raw and exposed.
Clearing the air with Kiara had been a relief, a bridge rebuilt between us.
Present
The news report flickered on, a constant reminder of the world outside my window, a world where my dreams seemed to hang in the balance.
Trapped between the comfort of my family and the anxiety about the future, a part of me longed for the carefree days of just playing cricket with Aadhit.
But that ache was eclipsed by a newfound determination. This pandemic wouldn't break me. I would find a way, I had to.
The following weeks were a blur of online classes, and news updates. We found creative ways to train, turning our backyards into makeshift pitches and using water bottles as makeshift wickets. The friendship we shared fueled our determination, a silent vow to keep our dreams alive.
One evening, as the hues of the sunset painted the sky, we huddled around my phone, a video call connecting us to the wider cricketing world.
A renowned coach was conducting an online session, sharing tips and techniques. We soaked it all in, his words were a reflection of hope in these uncertain times.
The days turned into weeks. The pandemic's grip tightened, casting a long shadow over everything. The U-19 trials were officially postponed, a crushing blow to my already fragile hopes.
Disappointment threatened to engulf me, but the unwavering support of my family and friends kept me afloat.
We started exploring online tournaments, virtual competitions that kept the competitive spirit alive.
As time wore on, a new routine settled in. Online classes became the norm, followed by bursts of practice with my friends.
We devised new training drills, pushing each other to improve, our laughter echoing through the evenings.
One evening, during a video call with my friends, Maya brought up the idea of starting a cricket blog.
We all loved writing, sharing our thoughts and experiences about the game. The idea sparked excitement, a sense of purpose amidst the uncertainty.
We brainstormed ideas, tossing names back and forth until we settled on "The Backyard Champions."
Creating the blog became our new project. We poured our passion for cricket into every post, analyzing matches, sharing training tips, and even interviewing local cricket legends.
The blog slowly gained traction, attracting readers from our town and beyond. The positive feedback fueled our enthusiasm, a testament to the power of our shared passion.
The future remained uncertain, the U-19 trials still on hold. But as I looked out my window a sense of calm settled over me. The path ahead might be winding, but I wasn't alone. The support of my loved ones surrounding me, I was ready to face whatever came next.
That's all for this chapter! Hope you loved it and will continue reading "Beyond the Spotlight."
This chapter explored the feeling of a teenager who is facing a Global Pandemic. His dreams are at stake, his life has become a mess, a note on his feelings was important to get it out of his mind. How do you find your voice? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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