swathi says…

Simon says, “Pay attention.”

Simon says, “Touch your nose.”

Simon says, “Read these words.”

Simon says, “Cover one eye.”

Simon says, “Stop reading these words.”

Haha!  Gotcha!  You are now eliminated from the game of “Simon Says.”

Annoyed?  Of course you are.  Welcome to psychological warfare.  Perhaps I exaggerate, but “Simon Says” is one of those children’s games that seem to haunt us into adulthood.  I’m a medical student, and every day feels like a game of “Simon Says” – constantly following commands by our seniors, showing complete submission, and at times facing overwhelming humiliation.

Now, by no means am I complaining.  Every job that demands excellence has high standards of training and rightly so.  But this is what we are conditioned to expect from our days in the schoolyard playing “Simon Says.”  From my memory, it was always the most dominating kids playing the role of “Simon,” dutifully eliminating players.  Maybe this game is a primer for future leaders.

On the other hand, let’s take a look at the players.  They have to keenly listen, focus, and control their reactions.  What a wonderful exercise to encourage children to be mindful and attentive.

Whether you’re “Simon” or one of his players, there are valuable skills to be learned from each opposing role.  Although, “Simon Says” inspired the name of my website, I assure you this “Simon” has only one command – Swathi says, “Enjoy my blog!”