Welcome to the first of Preacher’s Sermons. The frequency will vary depending on interest but this gives me a chance to not take over the podcast in order to manhandle the co-hosts. Granted, Clayton likes that…so… 

Our next episode will cover how to get fellow geeks to begin role-playing for the first time or how to break down the barriers that past gamers have that keeps them from rolling dice. Let me discuss how role-playing has improved my life. 

1. Improved my hygiene. Never want to be one of the stereotypical gamers.
2. Allowed me to not taking what I see for granted. With a masterful game master crafting the story you’re playing in, you learn to not accept things at face value. You explore, you probe and ask irritating questions that give you a better understanding of your environment.
3. Non Player Characters are never your friend, will betray you and have their way with your mother. Like number two, I have learned to not just accept people for what they say but what they do. You ask about nuance of idiosyncrasies, watch their behavior and not trust easily. But they’ll still hit on your mother.
4. Understand narrative flow. Even If I cannot always follow this lesson, I understand the three act method and how to create a sense of resolution.
5. Creativity. Too many people accept what is fed to them and never let their imagination wander. This allows you to think outside of the box and create new methods for handling conflict in work life and at home.
6. Socialization and friendships are worth keeping. Every one of my close friends has been role-players. They love the craft, enjoy being a part of an epic story and have a better understanding of sticking together.
7. Avoid those who want to own or control everything. There is an inevitable problem that comes from a person who cannot give up control. This applies to both players and game masters.

What’s your thoughts, Geekheads? Do you agree with my list or have these same issues driven you to the brink of madness? Has it driven you to a job in business? Sound off, dammit!