Energized by my friend, Chris

When we moved back to Tucson, I met my neighbor across the street, Bruce Lee.  No kidding, I really believe he is THE Bruce Lee of filmdom fame, although Hans made me doubt that when our wayward pup decided to nip Bruce on their meeting.  As months progressed, Bruce and I always wave to one another.  For two Christmases now, we've received egg rolls from Bruce.  This year, I thanked his wife, Veronica and she admitted that it was indeed the karate champ himself who made the rolls!  Wow!

Several months ago, on my way out at oh-dark-thirty, I passed Bruce's son Chris as he trudged to the school bus pickup point down the street.  I stopped and we introduced ourselves.  Ever since then, Chris greets me with a smile and a wave as I pass him so early in the morning.

A few months ago, Chris stopped by to see if we'd buy some cookie dough to support his school activity, wrestling.  Naturally, Marie and I did, possibly but not probably due as much to the fact that Chris was selling Macadamia Nut cookie dough, by favorite.  During that conversation, I learned that Chris carries a GPA well in excess of a 3.0.  We've often talked about me attending one of his wrestling meets.  The chance came this weekend when Chris told me there was a tournament at his high school, Marana High School.

Saturday morning, I got on my bike and pedaled the dozen miles or so to the high school.  I paid my five bucks and went in.  It was around nine o'clock.  I ended up watching four matches.  By the way, a dozen teams were participating from all over the Tucson area including the Foothills where Brad and Jesse attended.  I really enjoyed the matches, and I was totally energized by all of these young athletes from all over Tucson who were willing to put their skills on the line for their school, their parents and themselves.  It was incredible! I never did see Chris wrestle, as I left at 1000 to ride home and attend to other things.

This afternoon, Sunday, I was out front when Chris and his wrestling buddy Billy drove up to his house.  As always, Chris greeted me with a broad smile.  He never knew I was there yesterday.  Then he proceeded to tell me proudly that he won the entire tournament.  I could see his buddy Billy was proud of his friend.

Next time you think American youth are going to hell in a hand-basket, check out a 'minor' high school sport event.  You'll be glad you did.