Growing up in Marina Beach

It was Rangan’s 9 th birthday in 1953. He used to play in marina Beach Sports facility with friends. His best friend was Rangachari.  On that day, the care taker was having stomach pain. Rangachari then proposed to the care taker that he will take care of the volleyballs, Tenni Koits (Ring tennis- white rubber ring around 7 inches diameter), nets and other items and keep them locked inside the facility at the end of the day. The caretaker readily agreed. Rangachari and Rangan wound up in the evening, locked the facility room and left.  Next day, when the care taker returned, he found one Tenni koit ring missing. Though the care taker was murmuring something, his playmates started blaming Rangachari that he should not have volunteered at the first place. Rangachari maintained his silence all the time, as he and Rangan had done the work in good faith.  He said  "Ranga! My father had advised me in the past, that I should not react, when someone is blaming or criticising, as the truth will prevail".  The caretaker started to leave the scene to go to the facility. Just then two young children started digging a small pit below the steel posts of the volleyball court and took out the hidden ring to play. On seeing this the caretaker and every one was relieved.  Rangan had now developed an unshakable faith in Rangachari, not knowing Rangachari will be his companion for many many years to come.