Influence someone different from you
When I first arrived at the school for the blind, they asked if I knew how to play chess. When I answered in the affirmative, they were excited. “Finally we have someone to play chess with Carl.”
“Wait, who’s Carl?”, I asked. They explained that Carl had a form of autism and also was allergic to chocolate. But, he loves cats and wanted to find someone to play chess with. That’s where I came in.
“You and Carl will be in this room together, to play chess.” We were in a separate room and I had no experience with someone that has autism, not to mention someone that’s visually impaired. Uncomfortable is the best word that I can think of, but that’s not strong enough.
The day of our first chess competition came and I met with Carl. He was very nice and friendly. He had a way with people. The Vo-Ag teacher even let him borrow his nice chessboard.
For the next four years, Carl and I played chess together. Yes, he was better than me. He claims to have beat me in three moves. I claim it was four moves, but that’s not much better.
We became fast friends. Our relationship grew stronger with every match.
In the end, I realized that it wasn’t about playing chess. It was about spending time together.
There is no price you can put on time.
The fear that I felt was unfounded. Do you have those same feelings when you encounter someone different from you?
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Brian E. Wagner is a Speaker, Author and Coach, and he is also the Creator of A RADICAL VISION.
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So accurate. Everyone wants to be accepted and loved (or at least liked) by others. You have definitely found your calling brother. Also.. ..there is nothing more valuable than your time and we all need to choose how we spend it wisely.
You’ll get no argument from me. Thanks Sis.
Great article Brian! Thank you for sharing.
Thank you Mary Jane. I appreciate you!