I have hobbies … some of them strange.  For instance, I look at people and sense how alive they are.  No judgment, just looking.

Long ago, 52 years to be exact, I managed the laundry at the Prince of Wales Hotel in Alberta, Canada.  I remember two people especially.  One was a teenaged guy who worked for me.  It looked like he had given up on life already.  Emotionally flat, the world’s weight on his shoulders.  I didn’t know how to help.

Then there was the purchaser for the hotel.  He had to be 70 or more.  Every time I walked into his office, I was given a gift … his presence, his joie de vivre, his understanding of my young life.

Part of me concluded “I guess it takes time” to become yourself, to become light, to see the blessing life is.

***

And now it’s today … just a few years into the future.  It’s my turn to be the old guy.

I’m falling in love with an 18-year-old tennis player I see on TV – Mirra Andreeva.  She’s spontaneous, silly, so herself.

Two days ago, she hit a ball to her opponent that won the match.  But she was so dialed in that she didn’t get that it was over.  Head down, she was preparing for the next shot.  Then she looked up and saw a stadium of fans standing and cheering.

Big smile, and this look as she ran over to shake hands with the other player:

She and Emma Navarro laughed at the net.  Emma had just lost in Wimbledon, one of the biggest tournaments in the world, but it felt that she too was swept up in Mirra’s spirit.

***

And then there was yesterday.  Mirra’s coach Conchita Martinez was playing a doubles match in the “Legends” part of the tournament.  In 1994 Conchita was Wimbledon champion.

So what happens?  Mirra shows up to cheer on her coach …

So “out there” … as we say in Canada.  So much for needing an advanced age to discover your joy! 

Here’s a closeup of Mirra’s hat:

The night before, this is what Mirra had to say:

I will come to the court and support and obviously coach.  That’s my time to get back at her

Love it!

And during the match:

You’d better win this game

Keep it up!

And somewhere I read that Mirra also yelled something like this:

You’re the best player … on this court

***

Thank you, Mirra

You inspire me