THE CHEERLEADERS

To live content with small means; to seek elegance rather than luxury; and refinement rather than fashion; to be worthy, not respectable; and wealthy, not rich; to study hard, think quietly, talk gently, act frankly; to listen to stars and birds, to babes and sages, with open heart; to bear all cheerfully, do all bravely, await occasion, hurry never; in a word, to let the spiritual, unbidden and unconscious grow up through the common. This is to be my symphony.

-William Henry Channing

The air in the stadium was tense and uptight with the eager and deafening roars of the numerous spectators. The basketball match was getting fiercer and more competitive as the seconds ticked by. Banners of rich and intense colours adorned the ceiling, flapping in the wind as if applauding the players, urging them to carry on this battle of mind, body and spirit. I settled myself comfortably on one of the soft, cushioned seats, munching popcorn while calmly surveying the whirl of colour and flurry of activity before my eyes.

Almost at one glance, the cheerleaders mesmerized me. Tossing their long, golden-streaked hair, they seemed like daughters of the radiant, glowing sun, as lively and vivacious as fire sparks. Their arms were like slender willow branches swaying and bending in the breeze as they dances sensually on the shiny wooden floor to the upbeat music.

They twisted their lithe bodies into sensational positions while cheering at full volume with the might of a lioness. Their feet never once stopped as they tapped and spinned, nodding their heads and giving winsome, engaging smiles.

Their eyes twinkled merrily and their cheeks were like rosy apples after the energetic dancing. Skipping across the stadium while twirling their brilliant fans above their heads, they were like stunning flamingoes of a pinkish-red, spreading out their feathered wings, doing their own special dance with the vigour and vitality of busy, buzzing bees.

Their skimpy tops and mini-skirts of flaming, vivid hues glittered and gleamed under the dazzling spotlight, showing off their tanned skin, as glossy as bronze plates. I wondered what my grandmother would say if she saw their clothing. Perhaps she would scream in shock, march up to them and give them a good lecture! The thought extremely tickled me and I could not help but giggle, drawing strange stares from the people sitting around me.

Flowers of various soft shades ornamented their costumes. Their midriffs were finely chiseled, accentuating the smooth and even curves of their supple, flexible bodies. Gay streamers attached to their multi-colured outfits fluttered in the air like tails of a phoenix, creating swishing sounds that are pleasant to the ear.

They were the perfect essence of vibrancy and beauty. They were so young, so carefree, just like the whispering wind, delighting our hearts and filling our souls with pure bliss.