February 13, 2025: The Chopsticks Dilemma

As a 10-year-old boy, I joined the Burlington Boys Choir.

We traveled up and down the East Coast, staying in host homes along the way.

To prepare us for these experiences, we took etiquette classes, learning how to represent our group with grace and poise.

I picked up lessons that have stuck with me for years: the proper order for silverware, dinner table manners, tying a necktie, writing thank-you notes, making a bed, folding a towel.

But one thing that was never covered? How to eat with chopsticks.

Today, at a Japanese restaurant with friends, I realized this gap in my education. I fumbled with those wooden sticks until, without a word, the waitress brought me a fork. Clearly, I looked helpless.

But by the end of the meal, I kept at it, little by little. It wasn’t graceful, but I managed. Wounded pride is a powerful motivator to grow.

Here’s to learning new life skills, at any age.

Brian Forrester