Winners can play the waiting game

In the mid 1960s, researchers at Stanford University conducted a study using three- and four-year-olds, an empty room and a marshmallow. The rules were simple. Each child was told that the marshmallow was theirs, but if they could wait a few minutes to eat it, they would be given another marshmallow when the adult, who needed to leave the room for a few minutes, returned. The child was then left alone with his marshmallow, his hunger and his coping skills. For the next few minutes, researchers watched how the children coped with the temptation set before them. Again, the choice was simple. One marshmallow now, two marshmallows for waiting. To cope with their wait, some kids wiggled, some squirmed, some danced and a few sang. Of course, others simply gobbled up their marshmallow without pause. The researchers followed these kids (as good researchers do) into adulthood. What they learned was the adults who were the happiest, most successful and most secure in life were the same ones who, as children, waited for that second marshmallow. One can construe from this study that self-discipline is a critical component to lifelong success and happiness. That's interesting research considering how heavily the culture leans toward instant gratification. Indeed, there is value to be derived from waiting. I'm glad to know that as I design my vineyard trellising system. After all, I'm not going to be able to share any of my grapes with you until September 2010. Hope you're okay with waiting, too!

What a difference a day makes

The Vineyard on Labor Day

The Vineyard on Columbus Day