Lords of the Rings

I spent the weekend in Santa Monica with my family basking in California's almost always perfect weather-- when I witnessed what might be just a local phenomenon... A "ring culture." Who they are I have no clue, but what they can do as they swing from ring to ring is most impressive-- like trapeze artists at a circus. Why I write about this is because it's an interesting (at least I think so) observation in human behavior -- and particularly an observation about men... Though there are women "ringers" too.

If you've been to the beach in Santa Monica I'm sure you know what I'm talking about. There is a bar with about a dozen metal rings, and anyone who deems himself (or herself) strong enough can swing all the way across and back. All are included and invited to try -- though it takes a certain upper body strength and willingness to be humiliated when you don't quite cut it. Mostly it is the bronzed and chiseled alpha male that makes the attempt. The real ringers can do twirls in between like wanna be Olympians, and swing and arc their bodies into all sorts of contortions as they reach from ring to ring.

As I watched from afar my husband got in line with his "ring friends" as he started to call them by the end of the weekend. He wasn't the only non-regular giving it a go. Some Japanese tourists also waited their turn -- though neither could quite get far enough. An older gentlemen made a few failed attempts but finally, with his family and the regular ringers' support, he made it to the end. Everyone, ringers and spectators alike, gave him a big round of applause as if celebrating a rite of passage. As I said all are accepted. So why do so many men try? (Besides the need for attention while showing off their pecs.) Maybe it goes back to their pack-like mentality from the caveman days (sorry guys) or simply an eagerness to prove their manliness. Certainly there's the challenge and the workout. And while it isn't a competiton -- the regulars do try to outdo one another. But there is also the bonding that goes on. Some of the regulars lend the non-ringers chalk for their hands, or dole out advice... Like you have to pull yourself up to one ring before reaching forward to grasp the other.

Fortunately, my husband is very strong and he made it to the end and back a few times, though his career as a ringer was cut short with the development of a few painful hand calluses. But even my 3 year-old son wanted to try and he was able to hold on for a few seconds.

As for me, you may be wondering? I had nothing to prove and was there for the spousal support. Ok, I do admit to grabbing on to the kids' set nearby. What I discovered? I'm better off with my feet firmly planted on the ground. Well, thank goodness it's a long way to Santa Monica and a definite amount of humiliation. My husband though, keeps talking about the "ring culture" like he's been indoctrinated into a muy macho select club. Oh well, boys will be boys.

Comments

Natalie, I saw you on the show this morning and loved the dress you were weairing!! Wed. 3/14/07. Who and were can I get it. Thanks. I love you hosting. Mary

Natalie,
As a teacher who encourages kids to give the rings a try at every recess, I'm glad to see that upper body strength is uppermost in the minds of many :-)

I'm not so glad to see the "boys will be boys" comment, as many parents use it as an excuse for unacceptable behavior on the part of their sons.

It's a catch-all phrase that is used to cover verbal abuse, physical aggression and sexual harassment...all of which hamper teaching while inflicting emotional and physical distress on kids.

There are thousands of dedicated teachers in this country, working to educate while being mindful of the safety and well being of all in their charge. Truth be told, media messages are making the job of teaching even more difficult.

The only time the media is interested in teachers is when they can get sensationalized headlines from the few bad apples.

How about a series on dedicated, professional teachers (and principals) who work hard each day and need the support of parents and the media.

Thanks

This reminds me so much of the obstacle courses (or so called "confidence courses," I've done for training in the millitary. There is very little else like it in terms of building comradery. Last time i did one we wern't even required to do every obstacle but everyone did anyway. They really are alot of fun once you get over the shock of what it looks like and just do it.
I realized from reading this that i never thought of the obstacles as more for the men. This is one of the perks from being a women in the military i guess:). You see the pack-like mentality close up right from the begining.
Ask anyone who's been through basic training about how the males and females act differently as groups.it's pretty fascinating. After basic guys and girls work together and you don't really think of that anymore. We're just one team. I'm really glad for the opportunity of being part of the "male bonding" experience. I think alot of women are missing out seeing it as such a guy thing and just watching.