Life & Fairness.

As a graduate student, one of the odd jobs that I did was administer tests to undergraduate students. On the first week of Fall 2003, a certain student walked in. He stood there. Told me who he was. Asked for his test. I had to hand him his question sheets. Only, I did not know how. I knew I should not be reacting visibly -- that would be rude. But, I really did not know what to do. He was a typical Clemson student. Had a backpack, was clad in shorts and T-shirt like the others - since it was early Fall. Was on time. Was very unhappy with Charlie Whitehurst, Clemson's fumbling quarterback. Very typical. Except, he did not have both his hands from the shoulder down. I couldn't just hand him the sheets -- he had none to receive. Eventually, in a charming way, he said 'don't worry, just place it on the table -- I will pick it up'. He got ready, picked up the sheets between his chin and chest. Sat down - as in, on the floor. Started writing. The exam -- it had heat flow equations to be solved. He held his pencil between his first toe and second. Was solving a problem that involved evaluating double integrals. I am human. Had a tear.

Through the semester, we became good friends and at the expense of racial stereotyping, let me say, he had a sense of self deprecating humor that you would only find with African-Americans. Charming guy.

Why did I mention that? Well, today, here in Madras I played chess with a woman. I won. A small matter of detail -- she was blind.

And, I continue to complain how life is unfair.