By Nilanjan Datta,
AIFF Media Team

NEW DELHI: At a time when #StayHomeStaySafe echoes the sentiment of not just 1.3 billion people but the entire world, National Team ‘Ironman’ Sandesh Jhingan, a born optimist, feels “it’s not long before smiles will be back.”

“But for that, we need to be responsible, not indulge in any kind of hara-kiri or stupidity,” he smiles. “These are difficult times -- it’s the time to show our character as a nation. We need to stick to directives from authorities and cooperate. Stick together as a team.”

Currently, in Chandigarh with his family, Jhingan stated the day is not far when he foresees “football reuniting the entire world.”

“History will tell you that sports have always been the unifying factor. And history will repeat itself again,” he quipped.

“I can imagine the buzz at packed stadiums, the passion, the support of the fans when things get back to normal. Everyone will again go out and shout for their heroes, their teams. That’s the beauty, and power of sports,” Jhingan expressed, only to reiterate: “But all of that lies in our own hands. The earlier we want it to happen, the more responsible we need to be.”

Having a gym at his own home, staying fit isn’t much of a concern for the sturdy defender. The rest of the time is spent “writing, and spending quality time with family.”

“For me, the definition of life is not to complain, but they get the best of the current situation,” he declared.

“In this 2K era, almost everyone complains about not getting enough time to spend with family. But now when all have been told to stay at home, people feel otherwise,” Jhingan smiled sarcastically.

“Complete your office work from home, play with your kids, take care of your parents, talk with all – stay as a family. Be responsible for them. When did you last do all of that? Strengthen your family bonding.”

“This is not the time to complain or enjoy outdoors by socialising. Wellness of family, neighbours, friends and the entire society is much more important than going out for dinner, or catching a movie. Isn’t it?” Jhingan stated in one breath.

On similar lines, on the professional front, despite the postponement of India’s match against Qatar, Jhingan preferred to look at the “brighter side.”

“I had promised Coach and medical staff that I would be ready for the home match against Qatar. I pushed myself for that, knew no limits. But now I have gained more time to regain the strength of my knee. Of course, there was no way this match could have been played. But it will be soon,” he added.

“And that will be quite a spectacle.”