This is one of my very favorite games. In my life, this little game has risen to the level of a practice! I’ve “done” played it so often now that it is simply a part of my life. Here’s an example where I compare story(s) to marshmallows and then I fill in the blank.
Example: If a [_BLANK_] was a [_BLANK_], then [_ BLANK_]. In this case I filled in the blanks in the following ways:
If a story was a marshmallow, then …
- it would stick, as in it wouldn’t be easy to forget.
- the story would come in a bag along with many others.
- once eaten it would be gone.
- it would be inexpensive.
- many stories would look, taste, and feel the same.
- they’d come in mini and regular versions.
- they’d be welcome with a cup of hot chocolate on a cold night.
- they might be used to make a peanut butter and marshmallow sandwich – which sounds not so tasty to me.
- combined with chocolate and graham crackers, we’d all want s’more (contributed by a passing bystander who wishes to remain anonymous).
This exercise of taking one thing and comparing it to another is wonderful for gaining perspective in a number of different ways. It’s a game with legs and you can bring it to your story work, the invitations that are presented to you in life, or you can use it to add a little humor to your day. It also makes a cool add to a journaling practice. It’s a great little learning tool to have in your back pocket to play alone or with others.
I learned this little game while taking a stand-up comedy course given by Carol Roberts. Thank you Carol!
Enjoy the stories and have a playful day,
Mary
