Exercise

I was at my native village for the vacation, spending time at my grandparent's house. It was a change from the strict boarding school atmosphere and one that I welcomed. I hadn't been here for a long time, and only had hazy memories of my last visit, but it was amazing how everyone here knew who I was. I couldn't walk down the street without someone telling me how much I had grown or narrating some curious incident that happened the last time I was here.

Something that I had gotten used to in boarding school was beginning the day with an early morning jog. So it was only natural that I got up early the next morning, put on my tracks, t-shirt and jogging shoes, and stepped out of the house. Standing at the door I took a deep breath and looked around. In the cool light of the morning I could see the farmers getting on their cycles, ready to go to their fields.

Smiling to myself, I began jogging down the cart-track. Before long I heard a cycle bell behind me, and turned to see a farmer pedalling frantically after me. Confused, I stopped and turned around.

" Are chota sahib, where are you off to so early in the morning and in such a hurry?" He asked, looking concerned. "Here, take my cycle. You will get there faster if you use it."

It took me a bit of time to explain it to him. I don't think I'll ever forget the incredulous look he had on his face throughout the ordeal.