I return to the court again at the town park to shoot around. The first sunny day in ages.. It has been a cold and gray winter in Kingstree, South Carolina.

But today is different. Just 54 degrees but after shooting around for about half an hour I am actually starting to sweat--getting some of those toxins out. 

The blackbirds are flying high above as usual, forming a criss-cross pattern of flight over me, crying out my presence. People tend to underestimate crows and ravens and jays, not recognizing their remarkable intelligence. Having played basketball countless times in city parks, and sharing the territory with these birds, I have learned how they signal to their group that I am down there but am no threat.

One month to knee replacement surgery...If my doc knew I was on the court again, he might chew me out. He acts incredulous when I tell him that after my recovery, I am going to be out there playing "21" or even half-court again.

He is a good doctor, but I think he underestimates my love of the sport, does not realize my eye-hand coordination and shooting touch, even at the age of 65. Maybe the thought of someone my age still wanting to play hoop surprises him.

Well, I know what I can do and I know what I love. And I know how hard I'm going to work to get back into shape.

***

 I always listen to music, blaring my my car radio, when shooting around, and usually an appropriate song pops up. This time it was Tom Petty, "Running Down a Dream." Great driving song. Great song of freedom and hope and exploration. Everything began to flow together as I shot around to 100. Despite the knee, I managed 55% from outside...not bad.

I haven't lost the touch. I haven't stopped living. Far from it. It may be obstinacy talking, but no one is going to tell me what I CAN'T do.

I love the sunlight and shooting around or pick-up and the crows and the classic rock...and I know there is a spirit deep inside that inspires me keep on firing up shots for as long as I can breathe.

My message, especially to older readers, but really to anyone who has happened upon this blog note: don't let anyone--even a well-meaning doc--tell you what you CAN'T do, when that thing you are striving to do constitutes both your passion and a wellspring of creativity.

Call me a rebel, but I love to reach beyond society's expectations...for a man of 65...