Don’t Yuck My Yum

How many of you really enjoy a glass of wine? I, for one, take pride in being one of the founders of the Radford University Wine Society (back when we were a campus that could enjoy wine). Any chance to gather with family or friends over a glass of wine is always a guarantee of a great time for me (and Rita)! Like most wine evenings, I have a story to share, a phrase to introduce, and a philosophy that’s as comforting as a cozy blanket on a chilly autumn evening: “Don’t Yuck My Yum.” This fun saying, which found its roots with Allie Smith from The Traveling Vineyard, blossomed during a recent wine-tasting gathering with the Vault ladies this September. It’s all about fostering an open mind and celebrating diverse tastes and opinions.

At the beginning of the night Allie shared with us 2 crucial rules for her ultimate wine tasting experience. 1) Do not take a sip until everyone has been served, and 2) “Don’t Yuck My Yum” – in other words, refrain from expressing distaste for a wine that someone else might genuinely enjoy. It’s not just great advice for wine tasting; it’s also fantastic life advice. Allie’s wisdom reminded us that being open-minded and accepting of different preferences can make life (and perhaps even wine) all the more enjoyable.

Now, let’s explore why “Don’t Yuck My Yum” has become our mantra for celebrating diversity in mind body and spirit:

1. Stay Open to New Experiences:
Life is a grand adventure, and its bouquet is full of diverse scents and flavors. Just as we’d be open to trying a new wine to explore its unique qualities, let’s approach life with the same open heartedness. Taste the unfamiliar, explore the unknown, and you might discover something incredible.

2. Respect Others’ Preferences:
Imagine a world where every single person had the exact same taste buds, where we all adored the same food, art, music, and experiences. Sounds a bit dull, doesn’t it? Fortunately, we live in a beautifully diverse world, where each person brings their unique flavors to the grand banquet of life.

Just as a wine connoisseur appreciates the myriad grape varietals, each with its distinct character and charm, we should also cherish the diversity of human preferences. Here are a few reasons why respecting others’ preferences is like savoring a fine wine.

3. Value Individual Choices:
Every person’s choice is a story waiting to be heard. When someone shares their passion or enthusiasm for something, it’s like sharing a piece of their story. Even if you don’t share their preference, validate their choice, and appreciate the enthusiasm they bring. It’s a small gesture that fosters understanding and connection.

Now, you might be wondering why a wine-tasting event led to such profound wisdom. Well, wine, like life, has its surprises. Sometimes, the wine you least expect to enjoy becomes your favorite, just as people’s stories and perspectives can astonish you when you take the time to listen.

As we concluded our evening, we raised our glasses, not just to the wine but to the vibrant tapestry of life itself. “Don’t Yuck My Yum” is more than a catchy phrase; it’s a reminder that life is too short for judgment and closed-mindedness. So, let’s savor life’s richness, embrace diversity, and remember to be open-hearted.