“You do Wordle, right?” was the question I was asked by so many for the longest time. “No,” was my answer, until I became interested in the word game that has swept the nation, and the rest of the world! What was it about those colored squares in a puzzle formation that captivated my friends and family? Why should I become involved in a game that seemed so mercurial as it was explained to me. Trying to guess a word that was determined by, undoubtedly, a computer, seemed foolish, and I had no interest. Until I began to play, and like its myriad of players, became hooked.
My assumption is that everyone knows the premise: five letter words; enter a letter in the box and if it is gray, it is not in the word; if it is yellow, it is in the word but in a different place; green means the letter is in the word and in the correct place. Easy enough? NO! There are thousands of words that can fit any of the combinations of letters entered, and the true skill, if there is any, is to have strategies to use, even when they don’t work.
I have deposed friends and family about their first word each day, since we all start with a clean slate (good Wordle words, clean and slate, by the way!) and some begin every day with the same word, while others (including me) start with a different word each day. Some will share their choice, while others would rather give you their credit card number and social security id then spill their start word.
But the best part of each day is when I solve the word (okay, sometimes with the help of my little posse) and then SHARE with them my hidden puzzle. How much fun to see them return, or sometimes, pre-empt, with their recognition of the word. It is a little bond, and I love bonds.
Now don’t get upset with me when I tell you that there are countless other word puzzle games to ensnare you, because then you might truly become obsessed, like me. From Wordle, it is Spelling Bee, LetterBoxed, Wafflegame, The Mini Crossword, and those are just the ones on my phone. I also adore the Crytoquotes and work in a book of them as often as possible.
Are these games helping my aging brain? Not sure, but I do find myself encountering five letter words (aphid?) I never knew existed; love to be challenged, and love the camaraderie of knowing others are stumped or successful with me.
One more thing about the aging brain (I know, did I have to go there again?) Working on strength, balance, cardiovascular and brain challenges are all helpful I am told. But I will add one more, and that is my fave…connecting with others, socializing even if just around words, a meal together, or a game of cards or tiles all help us to feel rejuvenated and connected. I am all in when with others, because that is how my brain power expands and grows, stretching to connect with others.