Sudoku has a unique perspective of life. Even with three errors, we still get a 'perfect' score.
For years I have had visions of writing a book on this topic. It was, most likely, spurred by the famous "everything I need to know I learned in kindergarten." I don't know if I can fully get behind that statement, however I have found Sudoku to be far more than an mind-engaging puzzle. The first twenty attempts resulted in intense frustration. I could not fathom how a box, filled with nine boxes each filled with nine smaller boxes, could be so challenging. To make it even more boggling, we are only using numbers one through nine in any given box. My granddaughter could count far past nine when she was three years old. I just could not understand. If the design is simple, the variables are limited and the instructions can be written on a post-it note, then why was I ready to declare it a 'stupid game' and throw the book across the room?
Aah...well...that answer is simple as well. I did not yet understand that Sudoku held the meaning of life.
We have heard that "every problem holds the solution" and Sudoku is evidence of this bold statement. Every puzzle can be solved...every time. There were times...countless times...where I was certain the creators had made an error; an unsolvable puzzle was glaring at me from the book I held in my hand. Hours later I would be forced to concede I would not be writing a letter to the publisher requesting a refund on my purchase.
It has been over ten years since I completed my first Sudoku and it has been a beautiful journey. I am so happy that I stayed the course; that I allowed myself to get to this place in time. Today when I get to the point where the puzzle seems impossible, I can easily shift my perspective. Some puzzles require a shift in perspective several times; some puzzles can be completed in a matter of minutes. I can choose the level of complexity and have a quick win, or I can go for a challenge. The possibilities are endless, yet each puzzle rewards me with success. Even making three errors rewards me with a 'perfect score'.
And the meaning of life?
Trust in the process; shift my perspective; errors are inevitable but the label of 'bad' is counterproductive; receive the beauty and joy of the NOW.
From my heart to yours,
Dayton ~ the holistic wellness coach