Spatial Requirements: Classroom with moderate space required
Activity Type: Movement/group
Grades: 1-12
Group Size: 2 or more
Time: 15-20 minutes

Introduction: When an individual is up against a wall (failure, drugs, anger, “who cares” attitude, fighting, “I can’t” and family problems), it becomes very difficult to see the big picture and a vision for the future. When a person climbs the steps using the WhyTry principles, he/she will be on top of the wall with the “big view” and endless options.

Materials:

• 1 small soft ball or paper ball per person 
• 1 large waste basket or bucket
• Blindfold (optional)

Activity:

Place a wastebasket or bucket in the middle of the room. Have your group make a circle around the basket, about 25 feet away from it. Have each individual close their eyes or wear the blindfold and then spin them around three or four times with a ball in their hands. With their backs to the basket, have them try to make a basket. After everyone has had a turn, take the blindfold off and have them face the basket. Each person should take one giant step towards the basket and take another shot at the basket. This step represents the Reality Ride.  Briefly review the other WhyTry analogies, and with each brief review, have them take another step. A point is awarded each time the ball goes in the bucket, or you can give a small piece of candy each time a ball goes in the bucket. Each person will take a giant step after each review and attempt another shot at the basket. By the time you cover the last WhyTry analogy, the shot should be a slam-dunk.

Processing the Experience:

• How hard was it to make a basket with a blindfold on?
• What might the blindfold represent in your life?
• Why was it easier with the blindfold off?
• As you took each step towards the basket, did it become easier to score points?
• The activity became easier with each step you took toward the basket.  How does life become easier as you apply the analogies and climb the wall?