Raised Stakes

I enjoy competition. Nearly every type of recreation with which I occupy my free time involves competition. Sometimes it's just casual competition--everyone jokes and laughs and has a good time. The birds are singing, the sun is shining, and everyone's eye is twinkling. But every once in a while, I enjoy some REAL competition. The kind of competition where everyone is out for blood. Do-or-die, balls-to-the-walls, no-holds-barred competition. The birds stop singing, the sun trembles behind the clouds, and everyone's eyes are saying, "I'm going rip your guts out." Competition like that only happens when the stakes are high--either you've got a lot to gain or you've got a lot to lose. Here are some examples of times I've experienced REAL competition.

Event: 7-on-7 portion of football practice
The cornerbacks, safeties, and linebackers wanted nothing more than to break up a pass with a crushing hit. We, the receivers, wanted nothing more that to make a catch and break loose for a big gain. The DB coach must have been on meth, because he was always going crazy. Starting positions were on the line, but it was pride that raised the stakes. And trash-talking. On offense, we didn't get to make big hits very often, but when the play called for a crack block...we made them count.

Event: Axis and Allies
When you have invested five hours per day for a week into a board game, the stakes are high. There is nothing worse than putting that much time into a game only to watch your brother march his army into your capitol. Just thinking about it makes me want to throw a game board across the room.

Event: pick-up basketball
Street basketball is territorial. When you show up at a new court you can tell who the regulars are. They have already established who the best players are and they want to beat you so bad that you'll never come back. And if you outplay the competition, well...they might not be gracious losers. So have a big friend with you.