Mutual Respect
Everyone writes their own play book. Everyone makes their own rules, imposes their own penalties for infractions, awards achievement points. Everyone decides what’s truly important, disregards the peripheral, relegates meaning to its importance in the grandstand; the nose bleed seats are places we don’t talk about.
If you find someone who understands your play book, can accommodate your rules, save them the seat beside you, enjoy the game, together. Compare notes. No judgment, no belittling, no condescension. “I respect your vision, I applaud your plan, but don’t assume I’m going to live it because you do. It sounds like a great idea, let me consult my play book.”
There are plays I’m no longer willing (or able) to make. I’ll explain why, and I appreciate your acceptance and understanding. It goes without saying that I’ll do the same for you. If our plays aren’t lining up, if we’re always in a huddle with no momentum, we might need to take a breather. Step away from the particulars of the game and see the bigger picture, for clarity’s sake. Create some new patterns, more workable, a little bit surprising.
Big games teach lessons beyond mere competition, stretching to include the strength of everyone on the team, to encompass celebration. Regardless of who “wins”, if you’ve played hard and smart with every fiber of your being, long devoted years of practicing devotion, disappointed and weary, perhaps, far less naive but happier, there are never any “losers.”
LBM 2/9/2024
