Iain Kelly

BELIEF

Jimmy shook his head as he saw the kid walking up to the gym through the deep snow.

‘You didn’t have to come in today, kid. No one else did.’

‘Weather’s not gonna stop me.’ He walked off to get changed.

‘You know Rocky was made up, right?’ Jimmy called after him.

Jimmy had seen them all in his time, he had grown cynical. Boxing wasn’t a noble art anymore. Now it was entertainment. You didn’t earn your shot at glory, you bought it.

But this kid was special. He emerged and started on the speed ball.

Jimmy watched the hands dancing. His rheumy eyes shone.

j-hardy-boxing-gym
Copyright J Hardy Carroll

Written as part of the Friday Fictioneers challenge hosted by Rochelle Wisoff-Fields (more details HERE). The idea is to write a short story of 100 words based on the photo prompt (above).

To read stories of 100 words based on this week’s prompt, visit HERE.

Iain Kelly

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96 responses to “BELIEF”

  1. neilmacdon Avatar
    neilmacdon

    I think that’s what all teachers live for. Well told, Iain

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Thank you Neil

      Like

      Reply
  2. James Avatar
    James

    We all need a reminder of the glory days.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Especially in what appear to be darker times.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  3. pensitivity101 Avatar
    pensitivity101

    Once in a while that Special Someone walks through your door and renews your faith.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Absolutely.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  4. Viola Bleu Avatar
    Viola Bleu

    Nice!!
    Your characters are always so … REAL 👏🏼

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Thank you so much Viola.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  5. rochellewisoff Avatar
    rochellewisoff

    Dear Iain,

    The kid is every teacher’s dream, isn’t he? Nicely done.

    Shalom,

    Rochelle

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      I think so and in this case it seems to be keeping the old timer going. Thanks Rochelle.

      Like

      Reply
  6. J Hardy Carroll Avatar
    J Hardy Carroll

    The thing about Rocky I most remember is the amazement as the camera tracks Rocky up the long, long staircase and then pans around him, no tracking rail in evidence. Most of the cinema aficionados I knew were mystified. HOW DID THEY DO THAT? Enter the steadicam.
    That said, I got a double DVD set of Rocky and Raging Bull. All I can say about that is watch Rocky first, because after watching Raging Bull it doesn’t hold up at all.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      I agree completely, although Rocky is probably more fun – especially the increasingly silly sequels 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  7. sarahsouthwest Avatar
    sarahsouthwest

    Ah, there’s something romantic in this tale of grit and grime, cynical dreamer and dedicated boy.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Oh yes, despite his old age and world-weariness, he still believes in the dream. Thank you.

      Like

      Reply
  8. k rawson Avatar
    k rawson

    Great take on the prompt, Iain. Cynicism goes down in the fourth round to Talent & Dedication.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Haha, indeed. Thank you 🙂

      Like

      Reply
  9. Sandra Avatar
    Sandra

    A realistic take on both the prompt and the sport. I hate boxing, and this week’s young victim of the sport has done nothing but strengthen my distaste for it. Good one, though.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Can’t say I enjoy it particularly either, especially these days when it resembles a game show rather than a sport. There are some inspirational stories to be found in the more innocent days though.

      Like

      Reply
  10. Edith M. Field Avatar
    Edith M. Field

    It only takes one enthusiastic and committed individual to make the teacher/trainer’s efforts worthwhile! Great story, Iain.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Thank you Edith

      Like

      Reply
  11. Moon Avatar
    Moon

    I really liked the fact that there was this little boy who dreamed a dream that was not ‘trendy’ and yet he was determined to make his unique dream come true. Lovely story, Iain!

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Thank you Moon – we should all have a dream.

      Liked by 2 people

      Reply
  12. Alice Audrey Avatar
    Alice Audrey

    It was always entertainment. It just wasn’t always big money entertainment.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      I don’t know if I wholly agree. I think there was a time when it was about the sport rather than the entertainment – but you are right, it is all about big money now.

      Like

      Reply
  13. granonine Avatar
    granonine

    Heartwarming. Good one, Lain.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Thank you.

      Like

      Reply
  14. pennygadd51 Avatar
    pennygadd51

    It’s a simple story and you tell it impeccably. The picture of the coach carries a deal of conviction. The boy’s dream drives him to persistent, sustained effort.
    But a dream that relies absolutely on your ability to hurt and injure others, and that rewards just a tiny handful of its participants, and where you are celebrated for your dominion over others? That’s not a dream I would ever want my children and grandchildren to have.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      I agree, perhaps that’s why the old coach has become cynical, and yet he can’t let go of that belief that just once he will find the one who really appreciates and values that ability and nurtures his determination into something positive. I’m not saying I agree with him, but that’s his view.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  15. Alicia Jamtaas Avatar
    Alicia Jamtaas

    This is a sweet story, not in a sappy way, but in a way that shows the determination of the boy, and the appreciation of the instructor. Really well done.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Thank you so much Alicia.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  16. Dale Avatar
    Dale

    Well done, Iain! I can’t understand the appeal of boxing. I only like it in movies (go figure).
    All pros are just waiting for *that* special one to walk in…

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      I agree Dale, I rarely take an interest in Boxing, but it does make for great drama.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  17. EagleAye Avatar
    EagleAye

    I really liked this. A lot of folks got the wrong idea after Rocky. It’s still all about hard work and sacrifice. You expressed this so well.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Thank you, so glad you liked it. There are definitely merits to the discipline required for boxing, despite the brutality of it.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  18. OIKOS™-Redaktion Avatar
    OIKOS™-Redaktion

    Reblogged this on Die Erste Eslarner Zeitung – Aus und über Eslarn, sowie die bayerisch-tschechische Region!.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Thank you so much for the reblog.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
      1. OIKOS™-Redaktion Avatar
        OIKOS™-Redaktion

        Thank you too. My pleasure! Michael 😉

        Liked by 1 person

  19. jillyfunnell Avatar
    jillyfunnell

    I love dancing hands, Iain. And he’s just what the cynical coach needs to bring back the faith and enthusiasm. Well told.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Thank you Jilly 🙂

      Like

      Reply
  20. Sascha Darlington Avatar
    Sascha Darlington

    Well done as always, Iain. I like that the “kid” has ambition and is able to impress Jimmy who has probably seen a lot of boxers come and go.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Exactly that, thank you Sascha

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  21. subroto Avatar
    subroto

    Boxing not just about brute force

    Like

    Reply
  22. subroto Avatar
    subroto

    Oops! Sticky fingers hit the enter key too fast. (I am the Ali of the typing world. Not).
    What I was trying to say is that boxing is not just a brute sport that involves clobbering your opponent. The preparation that goes into making a good boxer is incredible. Don’t just expect to rock up and beat your opponent. There is skill and technique too. Good story about a dedicated kid.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Thank you so much. There is a positive side to a very brutal sport.

      Like

      Reply
  23. anuragbakhshi Avatar
    anuragbakhshi

    Of course Rocky was real, at least for the kid, or it wouldn’t have inspired him to make something more of his life.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      There’s a little bit of us who all still believe in the story of Rocky, real or not.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  24. James McEwan Avatar
    James McEwan

    Great positivity in this story with the determination to be the best. Wish the kid had a name.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      His name is Hope. Thanks James.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  25. draliman Avatar
    draliman

    A reminder of his hey day perhaps? A kid with a chance at the big time anyway. Nice piece.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      You have it exactly. Thank you.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  26. Ann (bunnygirl) Avatar
    Ann (bunnygirl)

    This is why it’s often more fun to watch Little League, high school football, or just about any sport being played by kids. They’re in it for the love, not the money.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      I agree 100%. A shame when money comes to ruin that initial love.

      Like

      Reply
  27. Laurie Bell Avatar
    Laurie Bell

    Wow that’s dedication. Making his mentor proud I’d say.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Thanks Laurie 🙂

      Like

      Reply
  28. ahtdoucette Avatar
    ahtdoucette

    A great nostalgia story that reminds of an age that seems long-gone.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Thank you Anne

      Like

      Reply
  29. Mike Avatar
    Mike

    Some kids just have the right ability, you did not have to say any more, fine storytelling

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Thanks Mike

      Like

      Reply
  30. Jennie Avatar
    Jennie

    This is all heart and belief. I loved this story, Iain.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Thank you so much Jennie

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
      1. Jennie Avatar
        Jennie

        You’re welcome, Iain.

        Liked by 1 person

  31. plaridel Avatar
    plaridel

    every trainer dreams of meeting somebody like him. hopefully, he lives up to the expectation.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      I hope so, and not another disappointment.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  32. Jan Vanek Avatar
    Jan Vanek

    A sweet story of hope. Thank goodness for the Jimmys of the world. Loved it!

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Thank you so much Jan 🙂

      Like

      Reply
  33. Inside the Mind of Isadora Avatar
    Inside the Mind of Isadora

    Ahhh … this is a feel good story in so many ways. The trainer must feel proud to have such a dedicated boxing student. I guess there’s a hunger they feel. They must in order to put themselves in that kind of situation. My dad was a big boxing fan. I remember watching the fights and thinking, who wants to get hit like that? Great story, Lain.
    Thank you for adding a new word to my vocabulary – rheumy. Enjoy your weekend …
    Isadora 😎

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      You’re very welcome, thanks for reading and your kind comment 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  34. rgayer55 Avatar
    rgayer55

    You wouldn’t believe how many cobwebs, dustballs, and mites I had to wade through just to write this comment. Dedication and preserverance will always take you to the next level.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      I appreciate your determination 🙂

      Like

      Reply
  35. liz young Avatar
    liz young

    I wonder if dancing hands will get anywhere with rheumy eyes? Good story.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      I think they could go far.

      Like

      Reply
  36. Björn Rudberg (brudberg) Avatar
    Björn Rudberg (brudberg)

    I think that this is what every coach lives for… to find that talent.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Absolutely. Thanks Bjorn.

      Like

      Reply
  37. Vivian Zems Avatar
    Vivian Zems

    A star in the making…it seems.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      If he sticks on the right path.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
      1. Vivian Zems Avatar
        Vivian Zems

        *fingers crossed*

        Liked by 1 person

  38. Dawn M. Miller Avatar
    Dawn M. Miller

    Even the arts and sports that have been commercialized still contain their stars.
    Good story reminding us of what raw talent is.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Thanks Dawn.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  39. Susan Avatar
    Susan

    The young man’s inspiration is at least in part credited to the old man’s mentorship. This story rings of hope.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Thank you Susan.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  40. Lynn Love Avatar
    Lynn Love

    Maybe this one kid will be enough to warm that cynical old heart. eh? Well written tale Iain

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      He’ll keep him going for now. Thanks Lynn.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
      1. Lynn Love Avatar
        Lynn Love

        My pleasure

        Liked by 1 person

  41. mumpoet Avatar
    mumpoet

    As a teacher myself, I find myself surrounded more and more by a generation of young people that don’t believe they have to work hard for anything. I don’t think the youtubers and reality T.V stars help as they make everything seem to come too easily. It’s like the young people just wait for something to happen, when we know the reality is, it probably won’t. But then you get those that know the worth of the hard work and relish in it, improving before your very eyes – and succeeding at the end of it. Those are the ones that make the slog worth it! Very well told as always, Iain 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      It’s good that the teachers can still be inspired by a few pupils too. Thank you so much.

      Like

      Reply
  42. jwdwrites Avatar
    jwdwrites

    Well Iain, I see what you mean about a taking a similar tack, but I think I prefer yours. 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      You’re very kind to say so, but there’s every chance it will still end the same way as yours did 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  43. Sarah Ann Avatar
    Sarah Ann

    It’s hard to make boxing sentimental, but you managed it. A heart-warming little number.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Thank you Sarah Ann.

      Like

      Reply
  44. patrickprinsloo Avatar
    patrickprinsloo

    The rheumy eyes – a great touch speaking volumes. Knockout!

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Thank you Patrick 🙂

      Like

      Reply
  45. The Reclining Gentleman Avatar
    The Reclining Gentleman

    I think the kid in your story could teach Rudy in mine a few things!

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Absolutely 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  46. mandibelle16 Avatar
    mandibelle16

    Sounds exciting for this guy, to see a reminder of his own youth.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Iain Kelly Avatar
      Iain Kelly

      Absolutely, making him feel young again. Thanks Mandi 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
      1. mandibelle16 Avatar
        mandibelle16

        You’re welcome.

        Liked by 1 person

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