The Battle to Create

It is, I think, a part of the human condition to want to grow and challenge oneself. We are driven to see how we measure up to our peers, and what we can master in the world around us. Some of us will actively seek out those who can challenge us. As we stare into the eyes of our opponent, we must answer the question that has been put to us... Scrabble, or Chess?

I choose Scrabble.

The genius of Scrabble is this... You win by creating, rather than by attacking or destroying, and your success is tied to the success of your opponent. You can choose to create a masterful combination of letters, knowing that you may also be creating a wealth of opportunities for your opponent to do the same, or you can hoard your letters and hope that your opponent does not.

Scrabble is most enjoyable when all parties are playing to maximize their own creativity. Enjoyable experiences are more likely to be repeated. The desire to challenge oneself is satisfied, but negative feelings associated with loss are defused somewhat by the afterglow of the creative process.

Don't get me wrong - I can play a mean game of Chess. But I'm a whole lot more fun when we are playing Scrabble. ;)