The elementary school playground
Asphalt and hopscotch
The smell of freedom, fresh air
And enough supervision to get away with almost anything
The Wild West
The first true civilization of youth
A world run by kids
Where we first learn the value of a trade.
What do you have that I want?
What can I offer in return?
Don’t want what I have? No sweat. No deal.
Anyone for a peanut butter and jelly sandwich?
Or…
How about I give away this brand new winter jacket my mom bought me in return for the coolest pair of sneakers I’ve ever seen worn by the coolest person in class? Sure, they’re too big with 6 months of playground rubbed into the leather, but how cool will I be?
Not every deal feels like a good idea after the fact.
Not every trading partner plays fair.
But a deal is a deal and it’s yours to keep.
Some kids have lots of money.
Some have lots of stuff.
Everybody can win.
Life gets complicated when we leave the playground, but does it really need to be?
A return to first principles. Everything I need to know I learned in kindergarten. 😉
Here’s to offering real value and getting fair trade in return.
In the meantime, I’ve got a pack of raisins calling your name.
Mary
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