Guys get the reputation (often honestly) for not wanting to follow directions, either verbally or in writing. We’d prefer to do it ourselves, convinced that we can find where we’re going or that we can put together that cabinet without trying to decipher the diagrams. I’m sure there’s a great faith lesson here, as well, but that’s not what sparked this post.

In my English class the other day, every single girl in class did the assignment incorrectly because they didn’t read the directions. All but one of the guys read the directions, and scored better on the assignment as a result. I thought that was interesting, so we discussed the stereotype a bit in class.

The next day, their journal assignment was: “Write an original poem about something really mundane.” This was one girl’s response:

Boys never read the directions,
Therefore, they’re always making corrections.
But today, to their dismay
The girls are the ones who aren’t okay
Looks like the girls have corrections to make.

First, this is just plain fun. Ceremonies like weddings should have more expressions of fun like this.

Second, isn’t it interesting to think about how different generations respond to this sort of thing? This would’ve been unheard of 30 years ago; 60 years ago, it would’ve felt like an affront to the institution of marriage, family, church, culture, etc. Today, it’s one of the hottest video clips circulating the ‘net. There’s great discussion fodder for groups of parents, adult leaders, and students here. (ht Deech Kirk)

Third, isn’t it cool how just a little spark of creativity can create a lifelong memory that truly stands out? Are there places where we can help transform the mundane into something way more fun?

• Harry Potter could be a classmate, playing on their Quidditch team.
• GPS satellite navigation systems have always been available.
• Gas stations have never fixed flats, but most serve cappuccino.
• They never heard an attendant ask “Want me to check under the hood?”
• WWW has never stood for World Wide Wrestling.
• Clarence Thomas has always sat on the Supreme Court.
• Schools have always been concerned about multiculturalism.
• Students always had Goosebumps (We just introduced our kids to these on DVD).
• Caller ID has always been available on phones.
• IBM has never made typewriters.