Editorial September 9, 1996 Issue

Simple, penetrating truth

Mark Swinney

If you really want to help others, it is important to help them in precisely the way that will do them the most good. If you've done any snow skiing, you may be familiar with a situation that can develop when a novice skis along with a group of more experienced skiers. Before long the novice is getting so much advice, is so overcoached, that he or she can't seem to do anything right.

"Remember," the beginner hears from too many directions, "always stand in your ideal, centered body position, drive your thighs and knees forward to flex your ankles, pulling your feet back underneath your hips and pressing your upper body forward simultaneously. And remember, as your skis turn across the hill, to keep your head and torso square to the fall-line with your shoulders level with the horizon—tipped neither uphill nor downhill—as your legs and hips lean to the inside of the arc of the turn. Now ... START SKIING!" The results are usually less than stellar.

Obviously, the way the well-meaning, accomplished skiers are trying to help is now the leading problem. Too much instruction unasked for and given at the wrong time can confuse and even bewilder. A good ski instructor knows when and how best to help.

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