The host pretends to set up an obstacle course. He takes five or six small objects from around the house- soda bottles, potted plants, water pitchers, telephone books, kitchen pots or whatever else is convenient- and places them in a line across the floor of the room. He spaces each object approximately three feet apart. He now demonstrated to the group how easy it is to walk the line by carefully stepping over each object. When he has done so, he asks for volunteers from the group who believe they can duplicate this simple feat. A number of volunteers come forward and easily walk the line. The host then asks which one of them would be willing to try to duplicate the walk- this time wearing a blindfold over the eyes to block off all vision. The volunteer is allowed to practice the walk a few times with his eyes open. Afterwards, he is taken to the starting point and blindfolded. Then the leader quickly and quietly removes all the obstacles. When the blindfolded player begins his walk, the leader and spectators applaud every high step as though he has successfully passed over another obstacle. The loudest applause is saved for the finish, when the player’s blindfold is removed and he gets a look at the empty piece of floor he has so carefully crossed.
