918  A thought on male beginners

Date: Sun, 5 Jan 2003 17:14:31 +1100
From: Roger <rde@QDOS.NET.AU>
Subject: A thought on male beginners

I'd just like to raise a point which I haven't seen mentioned, with
regard to beginner leaders:

The first time I ever drove in a car rally (alias 'forest racing in the
dark, on gravel roads, and frequently with the vehicle sliding
sideways'), I had moments of feeling like a total imposter - being
inexperienced, but responsible for the vehicle and, ultimately, two
lives [that of navigator/wife, and my own).

My first tango dances had a feeling of deja vu: Supposedly in charge of
the vehicle, but with the realisation of incompetence. If the partner
was also a beginner, we were bereft of reliable and responsive steering,
as well as control, and if it was a more advanced dancer, that just
highlighted the paradox of my being 'in control' and incompetent at the
same time. Not something to raise self esteem, confidence and the
ability to give a clear, decisive lead. Instead, more a tactile plea to
"please, please do an occho for me?"

So - spare a thought that the wet/dry-noodle beginner might just be
having an identity crisis at the same time. :)

rde