Blogger's Note: This is a special blog, written on request! Hope you like it! though it's more about Rodrigues House than anything else!
The most awaited event of the year for all FAPSians in the inter-house Music Competition. This is so for a number of reasons, the most obvious of these being the fact that it is the last inter house event of both, the calendar year and the academic year, and the 10ths and 12ths have only Prelims to look forward too after this. For the others, the third term is a very boring uneventful term compared to the 2nd so we enjoy this event to the max! For me, music competition has always had special significance, because I love music in any form! Having taken part everyyear since my 6th standard, i was more than familiar with the procedure of preparation for this event. This year was a little more special for me in two ways, being Vice Captain for Music along with Tarini, we had a role to play in organizing the whole thing along with the Music Captains and NS, ofcourse! Also, this year Rodrigues house was more or less in the hands of Prashanthi and me, our captains, being very busy with their Phy projects and the likes.
The competition was scheduled for 14th December, 2007, a mere 7 days after the last day of our Second Term exams, that ended on 7th Dec. Ah! that week of preparation is always full of tension, ego-clashes, sparks and if we're unlucky, spats and tears. The first few days are never hectic, we all imagine that we have more than enough time to complete our preparations. So the weekend passed with little or no practice, except for D'mello House who were very clever and very dedicated! Come monday, the tension began to build. Our first priority was getting good singers, and we hadn't even been able to hold proper selections. So we spent some time on making sure that our singer weren't tone deaf! Then we had to choose a song for the 'Indian' category, which proved to be a very cumbersome and time-consuming task. After we came to the conclusion that most of the Rodrigues House guys could not sing really well, we figured that we might as well pick some really simple song and try and jazz it up a bit! So we decided on "Koi Mil Gaya" from Kuch kuch Hota Hai, much to the amazement of the other houses. I'm sure they laughed at the folly of our choice!!
Our carol was not much of a problem. Having Amodh on our side, we figured some traditional carol would sound best, but our bright idea was scorned at by sir... He gave us a carol - "Torches", something no one had heard of before. In theory, a very simple piece. Without Prashanthi singing alto though, we would never have had a chance! Now came the question of Western. We should have been smart like Corbett house and picked something that we knew, and we could teach. "Lookin out my back door" was the piece assigned to us, a mere 2 days before D-Day. With much difficulty, we learnt all the songs. Unfortunately one very imp detail that we forgot to consider, was costumes! We finalized the costumes only the day before 14th!
In between all of this, we had to take selections for Open Event. The very fact that we had to take selections for an "open" event makes it clear how much of competition there is for this particular category. There were 30 aspirants of which we were allowed to choose only 6. It wasn't easy. And although we were completely fair, it was most of our friends that got selected. Well! we cant help it if our friends were the best singers in school! After much deliberation and debate, we settled on the final 6. 2 of them, clearly stood out, but one refused to sing, because she did not have the minus 1 track!
The big day dawned cloudy and cold, and we were expected to be in school before7:30 am! We didnt get much done in the morning, Rodrigues house had just one practice. I'm not really sure about the other houses, because I spent most of my time writing out the scoresheets (the order of houses) in the Music Room. The Trophies, fresh out of being polished, looked brand new and had an amazing silver shine!
The competetion, scheduled to start at 9:30, began very late, at about 10:15 if I remember right! Anna gave the opening speech, well, a little too fast. But you can't blame her, she was nervous. We had a very special guest with us, former head girl of FAPS, actor (Chak-de India), Anaitha Nair. Nope, no snobbishness around her, she was just your typical FAPSian, as Zubin put it very rightly, a little later!
The order of Houses was as follows, Gidney, D'mello, Corbett and Rodrgues - going by the order in which we all placed the previous year. As tradition holds, we began with the junior school groups singing two carols each, trained by their teachers, Mr.Daunt and Mr.Fabian. NS was giving what we called "a running commentory" between houses. The comperes did a great job as usual, with Shane and Jolly Jr entertaining everyone for Rodrigues House. Smrithi and Krishna, for Corbett, but Zubin and Naquia did a little bit just before the junior school part! Maggu and BD for Gidney; and Khanna and Pooja for D'mello.
Indian Solo followed this. With Soda representing Gidney, DK representing D'mello, a 10th std girl who's name i didnt get representing Corbett. And a sweet little 8th std girl representing Rodrigues!
Indian Group turned out to be very interesting, with Gidney screwing up pitch majorly and then getting back on track, D'mello lacking a bit life, Rodriuges totally dead, and Corbett simply amazing!
Western Solo - Taru Vijay for Gidney, Jyotsna for D'mello, Jennie for Corbett, Shane for Rodrigues.
Western Group, nothing much different here. Gidney wasnt bad actually! acc to reports, cos I didnt here them. D'mello was great, Corbett even better and us - well, I'd rather not talk about it. I wouldn't know where to start, with the horrible tempo change, or the even more horrible Altos.
Carol, i think, was the best category for the houses. Rodrigues wasn't bad at all, Gidney - didnt hear them :( D'mello was great, but Corbett blew the crowd away! and all of us too. They were unbelievable!!
Open event - most awaited!! Grace and Dileep - didnt hear them :( Tara, with a lil voice training, she's the next Madhuri... amazing! except for a few notes, but that was cos of her cold. Zubin - wow! but not as amzing as selections - there he really shocked me! never knew he could sing so well!! Dominic - the finale... we sure saved the best for the last! creme de la creme! i swear.. what a voice. Still a little trouble jumping octaves, but anyone'll have trouble with that. He was brilliant.
Vote of Thanks - moi!
Prize Distribution - aah! Corbett took like a clean sweep... except Indian solo. Everything else was theirs. Prizes were given out by Anaitha, with Mr.Boye reading the results. As usual he made a little "mistake". "2nd place goes to Rodrigues House" cheering in the crowd, but a little muffled. becasue of shock, " OH! I'm sorry, I'm sorry... I read the wrong heading.. It goes to D'mello House"!! anyway...
As tradition holds, we went to Corner House after much time-wasting and celebrating in school. And as we were leaving, the 12ths entered!
Oh! It was Ramya Mallya's birthday, and the 12thies did their special birthday song thing!!
There are plans brewing for another fun day out! hopefully, it'll be as great as we hope!!
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Words...
"You're not a parameter I judge myself by"
One simple un-thought statement caused so much pain. And I didnt even realize this until a week after I said it. If I were to justify myself then I would say that I was in tensed because of my exams. But nothing could possibly justify what i said. And he certainly did prove me wrong, He did turn out to be a parameter for me to judge myself by. I never knew that I caused the pain in the first place, but I should have. And the sad part is, that I probably won't learn from this, and I will just go ahead and hurt someone all over again. Is there a way to learn from this kind of thing?
I am apologetic, I do regret. But I don't know how to express this feeling! I don't want to bring it up incase i just go on and say the wrong things and hurt him more, but I do want to make him understand that I stand corrected.
Mistakes are sometimes hard to fix... Words sometimes get stuck in one's mouth... Words sometimes come tumbling out of one's mouth in a rush, too fast to stop, and things are said that are later regretted
One simple un-thought statement caused so much pain. And I didnt even realize this until a week after I said it. If I were to justify myself then I would say that I was in tensed because of my exams. But nothing could possibly justify what i said. And he certainly did prove me wrong, He did turn out to be a parameter for me to judge myself by. I never knew that I caused the pain in the first place, but I should have. And the sad part is, that I probably won't learn from this, and I will just go ahead and hurt someone all over again. Is there a way to learn from this kind of thing?
I am apologetic, I do regret. But I don't know how to express this feeling! I don't want to bring it up incase i just go on and say the wrong things and hurt him more, but I do want to make him understand that I stand corrected.
Mistakes are sometimes hard to fix... Words sometimes get stuck in one's mouth... Words sometimes come tumbling out of one's mouth in a rush, too fast to stop, and things are said that are later regretted
Friday, December 7, 2007
Confessions of a Girl with no pen name
Blogger's Note: This starts off as something about clinging to the past then just gradually moves into "me", so brace youselves - this is more I've written about myself in, 4 years, i think! Thanks for reading...
I tend to cling on to old images, images of me, just because I'm afraid to embrace a new me. I'm so used to being what everyone thinks I am that I don't even realize that maybe I have changed.
Take for instance the fact that I used to be a tomboy. I still like to think of myself as one and maybe there's an intrinsic boyish quiality in me (don't laugh guys, you have a feminine side too!). Like, I'm into F1 and cricket, and cars are a passion (to an extent). I never was very interested in Barbies but then neither was I crazy about GI.Joes. But that was because of the way I was brought up - Never put too much value in materials. I had two barbies - both birthday gifts from friends and one Kelly doll. But then, I'm a big softie for cuddly,soft toys, beanie babies and huggables.
I like dressing up - I mean, not make up and ultimate hairstyles, but matching clothes and nice earrings (i'm a big fan of the earrings!). Shoes! Not a passion. Shopping - Yuck! I can't stand it. I mean, if its necessary then fine, but for pleasure, no way! That's why i prefer going shopping with my dad, its quick and accomplishes the purpose. If I go with my mum or sis or both then I bug them so much that we're home within the hour! I hate going to 500 shops and trying on variations of the same outfit or shoe and then realizing that the first one was the best anyway. I'd much rather buy the first thing I like and then if I like something else, buy that too...
On the other hand, I like senti movies, chick-flicks, teen flicks, and soppy TV serials (Except Desperate Housewives and the Bold and the Beautiful). But then, I'm not really into romantic novels preferring Jefferey Archer, Robert Ludlum, Alistair Maclain and such action-ish books. I mean, I don't mind a little love in an action-based story, like MI3, but love as the basis of the story is a little too much for me! The only one tolerable such book I've read is 'A suitable boy'. Quite a nice book, I must say.
I'm quite a normal girl when it comes to bursting into fits of laughter and spasms of giggles. I love Archies, Teen-based series like '8 simple rules' and 'Malcolm in the Middle', 'Lizzie Maguire' and 'As told by Ginger'.
I'm not boy-crazy, but i have had my bout of "crushes"! It used to be that I'd much rather go out and play than sit around with my friends talking, till a few months ago. But that has changed too.
I love making cards, hate shopping for gifts. I'm emotional about things like "Last full day of school" and "Last 3:20 school bell I'll hear"
I hate social gatherings like Weddings and Tam Bram thread ceremonies (Tam Bram - Tamil Brahmin). I can't stand to meet relatives who I havent seen in a decade. Friends are fine, close family is fine, but not distant relatives... This is because i'm very uncomfortable while talking to someone I don't know personally. I suck at social skills, actually, I have none!
I hate the customs of certain festivals where the girls are expected to look all pretty and dolled-up. I don't want a traditional 4-day long Tam Bram wedding. I want to go for atleast one hard-rock concert, attend atleast one F1 race live, watch Federer play live just once...
I'm quite the sentimental goose, I save things up like movie stubs and napkins from aircrafts just for memory's sake. I love automobile magazines, but don't get them at home unless my cousin comes.
Love puppies, scared of dogs, cats I like but fear their claws. I visualize too easily, imagine too quick, fear without reason and by my friends do stick (hey! it rhymes).
I hate male chauvinists! but then, I hate female chauvinists too. I believe that mean and women are equal; different, but equal. I hate women who say, "We're better" and men who say, "We're superior".
I hate politicians who don't keep up their word, authors who dont believe in what they write about, musicians who dont love what they play and scholars who dont have a thirst for knowledge.
I get hurt really fast and tears are easy to come. I hate showing that I can be vulnerable but at times, try to get attention by being vulnerable. I compare myself with one certain person too much and kick myself about it once in a while. Sometimes I know that I'm a hypocrite because I feel that I'm better than other epople, but thyese are few and far between.
I act like I dont care about what other people think, but in reality, i do!
There are things in me that I want to change but am too afraid to contemplate the new me. I seem sure of what I want to do, focused, controlled! But actually, I'm just as confused as the next 16 year old.
People think that I'm quite the brain. The fact is, I just have bookish knowledge. I happen to have a good short-term memory, but that wont help me in the long run.
I've committed sins, then looked for atonement... I think I've quelled ie all.
I love praises (is there anyone who doesn't?), but flattery will only get you upto a certain point with me.
I have problems concelaing some feelings, but others seem to be locked away in a secret, theft-proof safe somewhere inside me.
I believe that I can be a leader, but I believe that I am not trully one yet.
I'm inspired by many, but have no role model or idol, envious of quite a few, but not jealous.
I can accept things. It takes me time to adapt to change but not that long.
I cant stand criticism, but do my best to accpet it.
I started this blog to be a part of a particular group, but now i'm hooked for my sake. But even now, I still keep the reader in mind, and reveal only 99%. That 1% is still concealed. Many people know me. But only a few know 99%. No one has that centum.
I used to long for certain things - comforts, luxuries; but now I'm beyond that. At times I feel ageless - sometimes like a real kid, and at others like a really old, worldly-wise person. MOst of the time, though, I feel like me - young, confused, vulnerable.
I have horrible judgement of people. If I think you're a horrid person, chances are you're one of the micest, most sincere guys there could be.
I trust too many, yet trust so few...
You think I'm confused?
Look at yourself...
I tend to cling on to old images, images of me, just because I'm afraid to embrace a new me. I'm so used to being what everyone thinks I am that I don't even realize that maybe I have changed.
Take for instance the fact that I used to be a tomboy. I still like to think of myself as one and maybe there's an intrinsic boyish quiality in me (don't laugh guys, you have a feminine side too!). Like, I'm into F1 and cricket, and cars are a passion (to an extent). I never was very interested in Barbies but then neither was I crazy about GI.Joes. But that was because of the way I was brought up - Never put too much value in materials. I had two barbies - both birthday gifts from friends and one Kelly doll. But then, I'm a big softie for cuddly,soft toys, beanie babies and huggables.
I like dressing up - I mean, not make up and ultimate hairstyles, but matching clothes and nice earrings (i'm a big fan of the earrings!). Shoes! Not a passion. Shopping - Yuck! I can't stand it. I mean, if its necessary then fine, but for pleasure, no way! That's why i prefer going shopping with my dad, its quick and accomplishes the purpose. If I go with my mum or sis or both then I bug them so much that we're home within the hour! I hate going to 500 shops and trying on variations of the same outfit or shoe and then realizing that the first one was the best anyway. I'd much rather buy the first thing I like and then if I like something else, buy that too...
On the other hand, I like senti movies, chick-flicks, teen flicks, and soppy TV serials (Except Desperate Housewives and the Bold and the Beautiful). But then, I'm not really into romantic novels preferring Jefferey Archer, Robert Ludlum, Alistair Maclain and such action-ish books. I mean, I don't mind a little love in an action-based story, like MI3, but love as the basis of the story is a little too much for me! The only one tolerable such book I've read is 'A suitable boy'. Quite a nice book, I must say.
I'm quite a normal girl when it comes to bursting into fits of laughter and spasms of giggles. I love Archies, Teen-based series like '8 simple rules' and 'Malcolm in the Middle', 'Lizzie Maguire' and 'As told by Ginger'.
I'm not boy-crazy, but i have had my bout of "crushes"! It used to be that I'd much rather go out and play than sit around with my friends talking, till a few months ago. But that has changed too.
I love making cards, hate shopping for gifts. I'm emotional about things like "Last full day of school" and "Last 3:20 school bell I'll hear"
I hate social gatherings like Weddings and Tam Bram thread ceremonies (Tam Bram - Tamil Brahmin). I can't stand to meet relatives who I havent seen in a decade. Friends are fine, close family is fine, but not distant relatives... This is because i'm very uncomfortable while talking to someone I don't know personally. I suck at social skills, actually, I have none!
I hate the customs of certain festivals where the girls are expected to look all pretty and dolled-up. I don't want a traditional 4-day long Tam Bram wedding. I want to go for atleast one hard-rock concert, attend atleast one F1 race live, watch Federer play live just once...
I'm quite the sentimental goose, I save things up like movie stubs and napkins from aircrafts just for memory's sake. I love automobile magazines, but don't get them at home unless my cousin comes.
Love puppies, scared of dogs, cats I like but fear their claws. I visualize too easily, imagine too quick, fear without reason and by my friends do stick (hey! it rhymes).
I hate male chauvinists! but then, I hate female chauvinists too. I believe that mean and women are equal; different, but equal. I hate women who say, "We're better" and men who say, "We're superior".
I hate politicians who don't keep up their word, authors who dont believe in what they write about, musicians who dont love what they play and scholars who dont have a thirst for knowledge.
I get hurt really fast and tears are easy to come. I hate showing that I can be vulnerable but at times, try to get attention by being vulnerable. I compare myself with one certain person too much and kick myself about it once in a while. Sometimes I know that I'm a hypocrite because I feel that I'm better than other epople, but thyese are few and far between.
I act like I dont care about what other people think, but in reality, i do!
There are things in me that I want to change but am too afraid to contemplate the new me. I seem sure of what I want to do, focused, controlled! But actually, I'm just as confused as the next 16 year old.
People think that I'm quite the brain. The fact is, I just have bookish knowledge. I happen to have a good short-term memory, but that wont help me in the long run.
I've committed sins, then looked for atonement... I think I've quelled ie all.
I love praises (is there anyone who doesn't?), but flattery will only get you upto a certain point with me.
I have problems concelaing some feelings, but others seem to be locked away in a secret, theft-proof safe somewhere inside me.
I believe that I can be a leader, but I believe that I am not trully one yet.
I'm inspired by many, but have no role model or idol, envious of quite a few, but not jealous.
I can accept things. It takes me time to adapt to change but not that long.
I cant stand criticism, but do my best to accpet it.
I started this blog to be a part of a particular group, but now i'm hooked for my sake. But even now, I still keep the reader in mind, and reveal only 99%. That 1% is still concealed. Many people know me. But only a few know 99%. No one has that centum.
I used to long for certain things - comforts, luxuries; but now I'm beyond that. At times I feel ageless - sometimes like a real kid, and at others like a really old, worldly-wise person. MOst of the time, though, I feel like me - young, confused, vulnerable.
I have horrible judgement of people. If I think you're a horrid person, chances are you're one of the micest, most sincere guys there could be.
I trust too many, yet trust so few...
You think I'm confused?
Look at yourself...
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Her
"Yuck!", she said, "Eww! Horrible taste". She was actually "tut-tutting" with disapproval. The worst part was that he was right there, two seats down from me. He was in his little group, as usual, talking about something or the other instead of working. She had a comment for that too. "They're just trying to impress us", she muttered! "Well! Don't be so cock-sure! They're always talking. Can you be any louder?!?", I wanted to say, but instead i just laughed out, and LOUD. Then she said, "Now that was loud...". I felt like... no, I didn't feel like hitting her. Imean, this was expected. I just wished she'd shut up. Now I felt all wierd. I had warned her that looks weren't everything, but she insisted on comparing!
All my other friends had no comments... But then, maybe they were being nice! It's possible. Diplomatic creatures that they are. Well, i said, i don't care, and it doesn't make a difference either way!
Blogger's note: I'm sorry about this wierd entry! I had written out this really nice entry but i dont know where i put those stupid sheets of paper! so anyway... When i find it! I'll post it!
All my other friends had no comments... But then, maybe they were being nice! It's possible. Diplomatic creatures that they are. Well, i said, i don't care, and it doesn't make a difference either way!
Blogger's note: I'm sorry about this wierd entry! I had written out this really nice entry but i dont know where i put those stupid sheets of paper! so anyway... When i find it! I'll post it!
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Brazilian Grand Prix
blogger's note: this is basically like my thoughts on the Brazilian GP. Basically i wrote it for my dad. But its really late! sorry dad!
The Brazilian Grand Prix was a thrilling end to an action-packed, controversial season of Formula 1 racing. The much awaited season finale was a dream ending to a riotous season. For the first time since the 1980s, three drivers entered the last race fighting for the championship. Lewis Hamilton – rookie driver, aiming to be the youngest champion has been the hot favorite throughout the year, apparently in the Mclaren Team too! Two time world champion, Fernando Alonso has had quite a stormy season, with troubles within his own team and, in the last couple of races, with his performance. But he had his die-hard supporters egging him on. Kimi Raikkonen in his first season for Ferrari, after five years with Mclaren, had all of Ferrari’s supporters rooting for him. Until the Chinese GP, he did not even appear to be a serious contender for the title as he was far behind Hamilton.
Hamilton, Alonso and Raikkonen entered this week's race with 107, 103 and 100 points respectively. the stage was set, apparently for Lewid who started from the first row of the starting grid. After and excellent Q3 session for Massa, he took the pole with some stunning lap times at his home circuit.
Kimi and Alonso shared the second row. Alonso had a fairly poor qualifying session without his usual confidence and brilliance being projected. As the five green lights went out to signify the beginning of the end (as in, last race!), the Ferraris surged ahead of the Mclaren drivers. Both Lewis and Fernando were at a disadvantage as they both started from the fairly unused, dusty side of the grid.
Raikkonen on passing Hamilton seemed dangerously close to Massa for an instant, but immediately settled behind him into 2nd place realizing the danger in pushing any harder. Although Alonso got the upper hand over Hamilton, Lewis was not in the mood to throw the championship away just like that. An overly eager, or rather, slightly desperate Hamilton got rather too close to his teammate and was forced to go off the track onto the gravel. This caused him to fall down to 8th place, just out of reach of that title. Displaying some amazing driving, better than we’ve seen all season, he moved into 6th place, the perfect position to be for him. Let me explain, at this point what the outcome would have been like had things continued this way. Massa in first place would have gone on to win at his home circuit, earning even more support and ofcourse boundless pleasure. Kimi, coming in second would have gotten 8 points giving him a total of 108 points. Alonso, in 3rd place would have earned 6 points giving him a total of 109. Hamilton would have won the championship by earning 3 points for placing 6th giving him a total of 110. But in F1, nothing stays constant, nothing is a guarantee.
I missed a major part of the race where Kimi took the lead from Massa, (thanks mom and krupa) so I don’t know how that happened! (Please enlighten me if you know!) But before this, there was a major turn of events. In what seemed to be an irreversible tragedy for Hamilton, he began to slow down suddenly. He was moving, but hardly so. For a lap, it looked as though he was out of the running and then his car suddenly began to gain speed. As we learned later, he had some trouble with his gearbox. He dropped to 18th place. What a blow for his overenthusiastic fans!
In the meanwhile, Kimi pulled away into the lead and even Massa seemed to be unable to keep up with his pace. He even set the fastest lap of the race!
Alonso, behind the two Ferraris seemed to be painfully trudging along, all hope of Championship lost unless something went horribly wrong for one of the two Ferraris ahead of him.
As the chase in front was in progress, Hamilton, from the back, was creeping up his way into the top 10. With 8 laps to go, he was in 7th position. He needed to finish 6th, to equal Raikkonen’s points. With 8 laps to go, the gap between him and Nick Heidfeld was about 17 seconds. Although he was lapping a second faster than Heidfeld, it looked like he was going to run out of laps.
With 3 laps remaining and Kimi going faster than ever, Ferrari fans sat with their fingers, toes and whatever else possible, crossed, praying for nothing to go wrong. 1 lap to go and Kimi was nearly there. Chequered Flag! He’s won the race. Ecstasy. Celebration time has… but wait! What was just on screen, 5th and 6th place Robert Kubica and Nick Heidfeld were way too close for comfort. My heart stopped for a nanosecond until they separated to a comfortable distance.
Breath holding continued for a few more seconds until they both safely crossed the line. Quick math was done to ensure that our calculations were right. Pregnant silence prevails, listening to the commentator in anticipation of a confirmation of our hopes. Team Radio of Ferrari, “Lewis has safely crossed the line in 7th, it’s all over. By our calculations, you’ve won it!” Pure ecstasy. Unthinkable happiness. What seemed impossible three races ago has happened! Even before the start of the race today it was possible but not probable.
Thoughts during the race (at various points): [1] Before the race, “To win, Kimi would have had to finish first with Alonso 3rd or below and Hamilton 7th or less. No way! Like that’s gonna happen” [2] During the race - “NO! Kimi’s second. Massa’s too good here. Kimi’ll never pass him, Oh no!” [3] 1 lap to go - “What if the 5th or 6th crash out? Lewis’ll win by default. Oh my gosh! What tension!” [4] After the race - “Yay! Yay! Yay!”
The well deserving champion rises out of his vehicle and we see jubilation, though not jubilation like we expected – more like shocked, stunned, dampened jubilation. The true joy is seen on the podium, rather, when he leaps onto the podium. The unexpected has happened. The impossible really IS possible. But hey that’s F1!
The Brazilian Grand Prix was a thrilling end to an action-packed, controversial season of Formula 1 racing. The much awaited season finale was a dream ending to a riotous season. For the first time since the 1980s, three drivers entered the last race fighting for the championship. Lewis Hamilton – rookie driver, aiming to be the youngest champion has been the hot favorite throughout the year, apparently in the Mclaren Team too! Two time world champion, Fernando Alonso has had quite a stormy season, with troubles within his own team and, in the last couple of races, with his performance. But he had his die-hard supporters egging him on. Kimi Raikkonen in his first season for Ferrari, after five years with Mclaren, had all of Ferrari’s supporters rooting for him. Until the Chinese GP, he did not even appear to be a serious contender for the title as he was far behind Hamilton.
Hamilton, Alonso and Raikkonen entered this week's race with 107, 103 and 100 points respectively. the stage was set, apparently for Lewid who started from the first row of the starting grid. After and excellent Q3 session for Massa, he took the pole with some stunning lap times at his home circuit.
Kimi and Alonso shared the second row. Alonso had a fairly poor qualifying session without his usual confidence and brilliance being projected. As the five green lights went out to signify the beginning of the end (as in, last race!), the Ferraris surged ahead of the Mclaren drivers. Both Lewis and Fernando were at a disadvantage as they both started from the fairly unused, dusty side of the grid.
Raikkonen on passing Hamilton seemed dangerously close to Massa for an instant, but immediately settled behind him into 2nd place realizing the danger in pushing any harder. Although Alonso got the upper hand over Hamilton, Lewis was not in the mood to throw the championship away just like that. An overly eager, or rather, slightly desperate Hamilton got rather too close to his teammate and was forced to go off the track onto the gravel. This caused him to fall down to 8th place, just out of reach of that title. Displaying some amazing driving, better than we’ve seen all season, he moved into 6th place, the perfect position to be for him. Let me explain, at this point what the outcome would have been like had things continued this way. Massa in first place would have gone on to win at his home circuit, earning even more support and ofcourse boundless pleasure. Kimi, coming in second would have gotten 8 points giving him a total of 108 points. Alonso, in 3rd place would have earned 6 points giving him a total of 109. Hamilton would have won the championship by earning 3 points for placing 6th giving him a total of 110. But in F1, nothing stays constant, nothing is a guarantee.
I missed a major part of the race where Kimi took the lead from Massa, (thanks mom and krupa) so I don’t know how that happened! (Please enlighten me if you know!) But before this, there was a major turn of events. In what seemed to be an irreversible tragedy for Hamilton, he began to slow down suddenly. He was moving, but hardly so. For a lap, it looked as though he was out of the running and then his car suddenly began to gain speed. As we learned later, he had some trouble with his gearbox. He dropped to 18th place. What a blow for his overenthusiastic fans!
In the meanwhile, Kimi pulled away into the lead and even Massa seemed to be unable to keep up with his pace. He even set the fastest lap of the race!
Alonso, behind the two Ferraris seemed to be painfully trudging along, all hope of Championship lost unless something went horribly wrong for one of the two Ferraris ahead of him.
As the chase in front was in progress, Hamilton, from the back, was creeping up his way into the top 10. With 8 laps to go, he was in 7th position. He needed to finish 6th, to equal Raikkonen’s points. With 8 laps to go, the gap between him and Nick Heidfeld was about 17 seconds. Although he was lapping a second faster than Heidfeld, it looked like he was going to run out of laps.
With 3 laps remaining and Kimi going faster than ever, Ferrari fans sat with their fingers, toes and whatever else possible, crossed, praying for nothing to go wrong. 1 lap to go and Kimi was nearly there. Chequered Flag! He’s won the race. Ecstasy. Celebration time has… but wait! What was just on screen, 5th and 6th place Robert Kubica and Nick Heidfeld were way too close for comfort. My heart stopped for a nanosecond until they separated to a comfortable distance.
Breath holding continued for a few more seconds until they both safely crossed the line. Quick math was done to ensure that our calculations were right. Pregnant silence prevails, listening to the commentator in anticipation of a confirmation of our hopes. Team Radio of Ferrari, “Lewis has safely crossed the line in 7th, it’s all over. By our calculations, you’ve won it!” Pure ecstasy. Unthinkable happiness. What seemed impossible three races ago has happened! Even before the start of the race today it was possible but not probable.
Thoughts during the race (at various points): [1] Before the race, “To win, Kimi would have had to finish first with Alonso 3rd or below and Hamilton 7th or less. No way! Like that’s gonna happen” [2] During the race - “NO! Kimi’s second. Massa’s too good here. Kimi’ll never pass him, Oh no!” [3] 1 lap to go - “What if the 5th or 6th crash out? Lewis’ll win by default. Oh my gosh! What tension!” [4] After the race - “Yay! Yay! Yay!”
The well deserving champion rises out of his vehicle and we see jubilation, though not jubilation like we expected – more like shocked, stunned, dampened jubilation. The true joy is seen on the podium, rather, when he leaps onto the podium. The unexpected has happened. The impossible really IS possible. But hey that’s F1!
Thursday, October 11, 2007
The Festive Season
Festivals, supposed to be times of joy, fun, breaking out of the routine and bringing people together. In today's modern world, that doesn't seem to be happening. Look at Dussera. So many idols of various Gods on 1,3,5,7,9, or maybe even 11 steps... dolls, idols, breakable! And when and old, worn idol with rusted nails breaks it brings great sadness. Hmmm... wierd! sadness over a bit of clay. Doesn't that seem silly.
Fighting! thats what hurts the most. One person wants something done in one way, and another in some other way. One person works, one helps, one doesnt, one gives a critical analysis. The critical analysis isn't taken very well which is obvious because who likes criticism after two long days hard work? The lazy daughter is chided... the son is let off scott free since he's the boy, and only the girl has to learn to do all of this so that when she gets married she'll be prepared, in case she gets and orthodox mother-in-law! The good daughter, helpful ofcourse is made to do little work, but ofcourse the lady of the house does do all the work, and so at the end of the day its understandable that she's tired and frustrated cos the market didn't have any nice new dolls. The nose was chipped, or the nose and mouth were blurred or rather smushed together, or it looked like the goddess had lipstick on, or this was broken, or that was cracked, or the paint wasn't nice! Well, i guess quality isn't really what it used to be! And at the end of the day, its supposed to all be for fun! I'm sorry, but I dont see the fun in this at all...
If this is what fun used to be, well maybe... 20 years ago. But now, I'd much rather be finishing a bio project or getting ready for an SUPW presentation that is due immediately after the holidays than sit around talking to friends who come once a year, just for this sake about things that dont really matter to me anymore. And ofcourse there's the singing. Some person who hasnt seem you in five years, "Why don't you sing a song dear. Something about (insert God's name)". Then when you patiently explain that you dont learn classical music along with reasons for why you stopped (cos u know that if u dont give reasons, questions are sure to come!) the person says, "Oh! Thats a pity. But i'm sure you remember some simple piece. It doesnt matter which God its about. I just want to hear your voice." As much as one wud be flattered that one's voice is in demand, singing something that you haven't sung for about 5 years now is no mean feat. You politely decline saying you're sorry but you don't really remember anything. Words go back and forth and finally after a few minutes the conversation changes track and you are thankfully forgotten. You quietly slip out of the room and lock yourself in yours, and decide to come out only after everyone's left. But ofcourse, the "return gifts" or whatever they're called, must be given, so out come the girls of the house! And the worst part is, this sort of routine goes on for 10 days!!
Its even worse if a small kid comes along. In my house the children are 16 and 21, so the house isnt really kid-proof. In the sense that, there are sharp objects lying around, like scissors and stuff. Also, there are a thousand breakable things and small objects lying all over the house. Entertaining the kid while trying to keep him or her away from all the "dangers" and trying to get a bit or worn in, can be a bit of a pain!!
The festive season... I'm still looking for the festivity in it. Call me anti-social, call me non-traditional... unfortunately... this is how i feel! When i grow up... festive seasons will be different... very different!
Fighting! thats what hurts the most. One person wants something done in one way, and another in some other way. One person works, one helps, one doesnt, one gives a critical analysis. The critical analysis isn't taken very well which is obvious because who likes criticism after two long days hard work? The lazy daughter is chided... the son is let off scott free since he's the boy, and only the girl has to learn to do all of this so that when she gets married she'll be prepared, in case she gets and orthodox mother-in-law! The good daughter, helpful ofcourse is made to do little work, but ofcourse the lady of the house does do all the work, and so at the end of the day its understandable that she's tired and frustrated cos the market didn't have any nice new dolls. The nose was chipped, or the nose and mouth were blurred or rather smushed together, or it looked like the goddess had lipstick on, or this was broken, or that was cracked, or the paint wasn't nice! Well, i guess quality isn't really what it used to be! And at the end of the day, its supposed to all be for fun! I'm sorry, but I dont see the fun in this at all...
If this is what fun used to be, well maybe... 20 years ago. But now, I'd much rather be finishing a bio project or getting ready for an SUPW presentation that is due immediately after the holidays than sit around talking to friends who come once a year, just for this sake about things that dont really matter to me anymore. And ofcourse there's the singing. Some person who hasnt seem you in five years, "Why don't you sing a song dear. Something about (insert God's name)". Then when you patiently explain that you dont learn classical music along with reasons for why you stopped (cos u know that if u dont give reasons, questions are sure to come!) the person says, "Oh! Thats a pity. But i'm sure you remember some simple piece. It doesnt matter which God its about. I just want to hear your voice." As much as one wud be flattered that one's voice is in demand, singing something that you haven't sung for about 5 years now is no mean feat. You politely decline saying you're sorry but you don't really remember anything. Words go back and forth and finally after a few minutes the conversation changes track and you are thankfully forgotten. You quietly slip out of the room and lock yourself in yours, and decide to come out only after everyone's left. But ofcourse, the "return gifts" or whatever they're called, must be given, so out come the girls of the house! And the worst part is, this sort of routine goes on for 10 days!!
Its even worse if a small kid comes along. In my house the children are 16 and 21, so the house isnt really kid-proof. In the sense that, there are sharp objects lying around, like scissors and stuff. Also, there are a thousand breakable things and small objects lying all over the house. Entertaining the kid while trying to keep him or her away from all the "dangers" and trying to get a bit or worn in, can be a bit of a pain!!
The festive season... I'm still looking for the festivity in it. Call me anti-social, call me non-traditional... unfortunately... this is how i feel! When i grow up... festive seasons will be different... very different!
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
A World of Unreality
If you watch, or used to watch, Full House on Z Cafe then you'll know this particular episode that I'm gonna talk about.
Remember the episode where DJ, Steph and Michelle go to Camp Lakota along with DJ's boyfriend, Steve (I think!!). And when they get home, all they can talk about is camp, camp and CAMP. And Joey, Jesse and their dad, along with Becky are really upset that they cant stop talking about Camp. Michelle brings back a bunny rabbit that they had nursed to health at camp and Steve offers to drive her back there to set it free and DJ and Steph want to go along too. There they think they're being attacked by a mud-monster, which is actually Joey covered in mud, because it was a very stormy day. But the important part is that when they go there they realize that it wasnt the place that mattered so much because when all the kids weren't there the place just seemed a lifeless, lonely cabin! And so when they get back they realize that the elders had been upset and hurt and then everything becomes all better.
Well, I'm just trying to make a point. Sometimes people get caught up in something temporary, something thats takes place only for a few days or a maybe a couple of weeks. And when they have to get back to the real world, they have trouble letting go of what was so great, though they dont realize that anything can be made great, as long as you want it to be. Suppose you have to run a race, and you psych yourself completely, in the sense that you are totally into it and are confident of winning. Then, you're bound to do well, and even if you don't win, you still have a feeling of contentment. Cos you went in with a positive mindset. But the minute you think, "I'm SO going to come last" then 99% percent chances, you will come last. And then your just going to think, "Damn! I knew that was going to happen. I should just stop trying." But in the first case you'd think, "Okay, so I didn't get it this time, maybe I have better stamina, I'll try 800m". Do you see my point?
Okay, I'm sort of deviating from the point. I'm just saying, sometimes people live too much in the moment, they forget the things that matter most, like family, long-lasting friendship and doing well in life.
Think of this situation, you've just made a new friend, and you too get along amazingly, you have the same tastes in everything. It happened fast, a sudden friendship. No prelude. You spend all your time with that friend. Trying to get to know him better, trying to figure out more things that you have in common, because, you seem to be soul-mates. And after about a week after you've exhausted all the things in common, you start to explore the things that are different, and you realize that when it comes to things that matter, you guys are actually very different. Then you realize, that for a week you did nothing but spend time with this new friend, that in the process you've alienated the old, more constant ones. Friendships that were built over time, with arguments and disagreements and patch-ups and "Forgive me"s.
Thats what I'm talking about, getting too involved in one thing. Many people make that mistake. There's not much of a healthy balance when it comes to people. We take old friends for granted, thinking they'll be there for you no matter what. And good friends will definately always be there for you, but you've got to remember that you need to be a good friend and need to be there for him or her too. New friendships are very very important, but not at the cost of old ones. Give replationships time. It takes time to build trust and true happiness. Make a new friend an old friend. It can't be that hard... It just needs time.
And not just new friendships. Anything. If a camp is happening for a week, have fun with it. But when you get back to the real world or school, chores and life in general, it cant be good to pine for the week-long camp, cos ultimately thats definately not permanent in your life. Look at what you have and appreciate it before you forget all about what you have to get something that you see before. Remember, one bird in hand is better than two in a bush. Don't regret what has gone by, appreciate what is happening, but dont long for what is to come, cos there's no way you can tell what is to come.
I can hardly believe that people can centre their whole lives around something that has gotten over, or something that isn't real anymore. I guess thats why we have 'Devdas's in this world. Pining for what is lost. Living in a world of unreality.
Remember the episode where DJ, Steph and Michelle go to Camp Lakota along with DJ's boyfriend, Steve (I think!!). And when they get home, all they can talk about is camp, camp and CAMP. And Joey, Jesse and their dad, along with Becky are really upset that they cant stop talking about Camp. Michelle brings back a bunny rabbit that they had nursed to health at camp and Steve offers to drive her back there to set it free and DJ and Steph want to go along too. There they think they're being attacked by a mud-monster, which is actually Joey covered in mud, because it was a very stormy day. But the important part is that when they go there they realize that it wasnt the place that mattered so much because when all the kids weren't there the place just seemed a lifeless, lonely cabin! And so when they get back they realize that the elders had been upset and hurt and then everything becomes all better.
Well, I'm just trying to make a point. Sometimes people get caught up in something temporary, something thats takes place only for a few days or a maybe a couple of weeks. And when they have to get back to the real world, they have trouble letting go of what was so great, though they dont realize that anything can be made great, as long as you want it to be. Suppose you have to run a race, and you psych yourself completely, in the sense that you are totally into it and are confident of winning. Then, you're bound to do well, and even if you don't win, you still have a feeling of contentment. Cos you went in with a positive mindset. But the minute you think, "I'm SO going to come last" then 99% percent chances, you will come last. And then your just going to think, "Damn! I knew that was going to happen. I should just stop trying." But in the first case you'd think, "Okay, so I didn't get it this time, maybe I have better stamina, I'll try 800m". Do you see my point?
Okay, I'm sort of deviating from the point. I'm just saying, sometimes people live too much in the moment, they forget the things that matter most, like family, long-lasting friendship and doing well in life.
Think of this situation, you've just made a new friend, and you too get along amazingly, you have the same tastes in everything. It happened fast, a sudden friendship. No prelude. You spend all your time with that friend. Trying to get to know him better, trying to figure out more things that you have in common, because, you seem to be soul-mates. And after about a week after you've exhausted all the things in common, you start to explore the things that are different, and you realize that when it comes to things that matter, you guys are actually very different. Then you realize, that for a week you did nothing but spend time with this new friend, that in the process you've alienated the old, more constant ones. Friendships that were built over time, with arguments and disagreements and patch-ups and "Forgive me"s.
Thats what I'm talking about, getting too involved in one thing. Many people make that mistake. There's not much of a healthy balance when it comes to people. We take old friends for granted, thinking they'll be there for you no matter what. And good friends will definately always be there for you, but you've got to remember that you need to be a good friend and need to be there for him or her too. New friendships are very very important, but not at the cost of old ones. Give replationships time. It takes time to build trust and true happiness. Make a new friend an old friend. It can't be that hard... It just needs time.
And not just new friendships. Anything. If a camp is happening for a week, have fun with it. But when you get back to the real world or school, chores and life in general, it cant be good to pine for the week-long camp, cos ultimately thats definately not permanent in your life. Look at what you have and appreciate it before you forget all about what you have to get something that you see before. Remember, one bird in hand is better than two in a bush. Don't regret what has gone by, appreciate what is happening, but dont long for what is to come, cos there's no way you can tell what is to come.
I can hardly believe that people can centre their whole lives around something that has gotten over, or something that isn't real anymore. I guess thats why we have 'Devdas's in this world. Pining for what is lost. Living in a world of unreality.
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