Charles’ built was like the linebacker Lawrence Taylor. I have seen him around the park from time to time, not because his presence and his resemblance to my favorite Giants but his agile movement on the court and text book swings. He was a great player, a solid 4.0.
One day I was hitting with two guys I found on the court. After watching us from outside of the fence, during the break, he came in and invited me to play.
The two guys gasped. Did he mean one of them, I hesitated.
“I watched you play. Not many girls play single hand back hand. You have it naturally and play beautifully.” He complimented me.
He did pick me. I was overjoyed. I am conscious of my own ability and would never ask to play with a better player, unless she or he initiated it. Then I thought about Mr. Huang on the badminton court and worried briefly: what did I have to offer? I was weak and essentially a beginner.
I walked to my side of the baseline on a cloud. He sounded genuine and those few words put me at ease. We rallied for a while then he suggested a set. I was barely 3 at the time, mind you. At his level, he had the ability to make the game and he more than generously did. The fact that a great player was willing to play with me, motivated me to no end. I played my heart out as much as not to disappoint him, and as to prove to him that I was willing to learn and to play. He could swat me like a fly just like Mr. Haung. Instead, he managed to keep the rallies long enough for both of us to enjoy. On the few points that I did mamage brilliantly he would tacitly relent.
This match illustrated perfectly what a great player, or country in that matter could elevate and motivate a new comer.
China’s surge does not have to build on other’s decline. Just ask Pete Sampras, Roger Federer and Serena: do they welcome the challenge or prefer to sit at the top alone? China’s surge will only push America to become better.
USA, please do not squander your lead, the world needs a good cop.
China, jiayou, you are almost there.
