Tennis. Why do we run and chase and hit a tennis ball over and over every day? Running so fast we burn holes in our shoes, lose our breath and occasionally fall. Late nights, early mornings, 40 degrees, 100 degrees, sore shoulder, knee surgery, blisters, back pain, neck ache, elbow, we play through it all. Because we live off the adrenaline. Because the game frees your soul and spirit. Because you’re invincible when you step on that court with racquet in hand. Because that one ace, volley, lunge forehand backhand winner can make you smile all day. The camaraderie with other players is a sacred union. “You can learn more about a person in an hour of play than a month of conversation,” said Aristotle. The sensation of the ball on the strings and getting the feet in position to hit a Djokovic winner right where you planned to is a rhythm to live by. Because it’s possible to strike shots that leave all your worries behind. Also the feeling of making your opponent or rival hit an amazing shot is also a secret joy. Why would someone push themselves so hard to play this sport until they need to see a surgeon or can barely walk at the end of the day? It’s not for money or fame. We do it because we love it. If you’re a tennis player keep playing.
