As many of our Minnesota Bridge players are aware, some of us have been playing almost since the beginning of time.... others are fairly experienced, yet do not go back to the Dark Ages. And then we have various people who have played just a little bit, those who have played more than that - yet surely not experts. And those who are fascinated and want to learn more and more about this amazing game.
Due to the combo, however, of Covid, politics and a number of other activities that are causing our game to be diminished, at least our "face to face" bridge has dwindled. What does this mean? What can we do about it?
Well, I imagine many of us have a wide variety of thoughts. And - I invite those who have interest in building up bridge again to share ideas! If you don't mind - I'll mention some of my own.
Number One - If you have friends who've never played bridge, yet are intrigued by bridge activities of others - then encourage them to learn! We have had players for years who are great guiding newbies, teaching the vast world of bidding, playing, doubling, guessing - and much much more.
Number Two - If YOU have been playing and have vaulted past the "newbie" stage - yet wish to pump up your game - then we have various opportunities for you! Meet with the Minnesota teachers who can help you to morph from "what does redouble mean?" or "How do I know whether to go quietly - or double?" then discover that you can start improving - and winning - yourself!
And Number Three - if you're a player who has progressed to intermediate, or "By George, I've got it" - or, even has become expert or above and beyond expert... You can be one our bridge players who helps our game to grow. Those starting out can learn a great deal - be it getting expertise from kibitzing, playing a lot, winning once in a while - or learning how to avoid going for 800 when you could have instead said "good here".
This is just a taste of how Minnesota Bridge can grow and thrive again. We can help one another - become experts if now we ain't near that goal - or be proud of more and more people announcing that they are Learning Bridge - and then watching them, over time, changing from beginners to winners.
I truly invite those who wish to share their own thoughts to do so. I myself have been playing bridge since my mid twenties. In the beginning, "Doofus" was plastered on my brow! Yet thanks to the help, support, wisdom and teaching of friends, I improved with time. And then I, too could encourage new players and share ideas.
Bridge is played around the world, with a varied background of so many, it's mind boggling! Let's reclaim our game - and cause many to fall in love with bridge. I and a host of others in the Land of Lakes have had a lifetime of fun and fascination from the game. Let's not deprive others of that joy!
I thank you all!
Peg
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