Suma Yarabarla

My name is Suma Yarabarla. I started playing tennis ever since I could first hold a tennis racket. Tennis tends to like to invade my mind and make my heart rapidly race; it has been the subject of my dreams and journal entries numerous times. It is the reason for some of my brightest memories and achievements and for some of my most haunting downfalls. Tennis is the link to many of my friendships and serves as the pastime my family uses to spend time with one another. It taught me to be competitive, yet also to be aware of looming fears and at times building so much pressure that it felt difficult to freely breathe. While playing tennis, my mind wandered away from school and other issues and into a world of peace and quiet. It provided me with a place of serenity; my own place of salvation where no one could easily break into it, and for that, I am thankful for it. Although I do not play as much tennis today, it still is an active a part of my life as I volunteer to teach elementary school kids tennis, and as it serves to be a great topic to talk about when I meet new people. Tennis is the part of me which I am grateful for and will never let go.