Wednesday, April 15, 2009

The Adventures of the Little Voice Story 3

Joe Rumble was a half-pint when he was born, and by the time he reached college he wasn't any more than a big squirt.  He was quite a success despite his physical stature, due mainly to an inflated ego and lots of bravado.  But he also nourished a secret desire, he wanted to be a basketball hero.  

Mr. Joe Rumble had been kicked out of the coaches office so many times that it had become the talk of the campus.  Some people were even spreading the word that he had tried to bribe the coach.  It was just after Joe had been handed a stinging blow - he had been turned down for the job of water boy - when he heard the Little Voice.  He had his head between his legs as dejected, as any basketball hero would be if he hadn't been given the big chance, when he heard, "If first you don't succeed -- Tra La -- Learn to dribble!"

Responding with his unique athletic prowess Joe jumped behind a tree and looked around.  The Little Voice said,  "Silly, you cant see me.  But if you want to be a hero I'd advise you to learn to dribble."  

About that time the coach walked by.  He looked at Joe with his most touching expression and asked,  "What's the trouble Joe?  Something scare you?"  

"Naw," Joe replied, "just think'n about dribbling."

"Well," the coach said,  "you just learn that trick and you might win a spot on the team."  

"See.  What did I tell you!"  The Little Voice smirked.  

For days Joe spent all his spare time with a basketball.  He ate with it, slept with it and even played with it.  And about once every five minutes he would hear the Little Voice say,  "Dribble!  That's all you have to do!  Dribble!"  

Joe made his spot on the bench and got his chance.  It was in the last minutes of the big homecoming game with the schools worst rival.  Joe's team was one point ahead with just two seconds left to play.  Since all but four of the team had fouled out and Joe was the last substitute, the coach said,  "Get in there boy and stall!"  

The Little Voice said, "Now don't forget to dribble!"

Joe did.  He grabbed the ball and dribbled.  In and out nine other players like greased lightning, around the court with breath taking agility, he flew.  Joe heard the roar of the crowd, and heard them screaming his name.  Just before the whistle, and the final groan of all the fans, ended the game, he sank the winning basket, for the other team.

And the Little Voice cried, "Boy Did he Dribble!"

----


No comments: