Double-Dutch

Kids these days just don’t know the fun we had playing outside when we were younger. Did we have TVs… yes. Game consoles… sure! However, although a Different World, Mario Bros., and Sonic the Hedgehog were entertaining, there was nothing like the competition of seeing who could last the longest doing dance steps, while singing “soul train comes on channel five” between two clothes lines that doubled as disciplinary tools. (if you know, you know).

As a child, and teenager, playing double-dutch was one of my favorite things to do. It was always interesting to see the multi-colored jump ropes they used on TV shows because our jump ropes were white, with the consistency of cable cords. Anyway, the fun started with deciding who would go first, and hearing people yell out numbers and sayings to beat the number 1. Someone would yell, “I’m first” and immediately after another person would say, “I’m 0, got not higher.” Once the order was established, those controlling the ropes were decided. This was – and remains- very important. Turning the ropes requires rhythm, a steady hand, and singing ability. If someone was double-handed (unable to maintain a steady rhythm), they would be shamed, and banned from ever turning the rope again. Also, you had to sing the song for the jumper. Plain and simple, being the rope turner required talent.

After the song was chosen, and my favorite was “Big Mack” (again, if you know you know), then it was time to get the party started. Another comedic portion of double-dutch was the various ways people jumped in the ropes. I mean it was literally always a process, that involved rocking back and forth, with one leg forward, and sometimes arms moving in a rowing fashion. This was also necessary to time your entry accurately. Now, some people took way too long to get in the rope, which resulted in the rope turners stopping or that person losing their turn. But typically, the ritual worked well enough to get within the ropes. Once in, it was time to get busy. A game of double-dutch could literally last for hours, as everyone would take turns jumping and turning the rope. However long we stayed out there it was worth it because during this time, we laughed, supported each other, and built and solidified connections.

Things I realized from reflecting on my time playing double-dutch include:

1.       There is always an order to things in life. (sometimes you just gotta wait your turn sis).

2.       You need people… they are not optional, they are essential. (stop pushing away your support system)

3.       Exercise can be fun! (didn’t even see it as exercise until i wrote this post #shouldershrug)

4.      Sometimes you’re the jumper, and sometimes you’re the rope turner. (it ain’t always about you, supporting others is just as important as receiving support)

5.       I miss outside.

What was your favorite game to play outdoors?