Like a gambler, you need to read a dogmatist’s tells

Do you remember the words to the Kenny Rogers song, The Gambler ?

You got to know when to hold ‘em, know when to fold ‘em.

Know when to walk away, know when to run.

You never count your money, when you’re sittin’ at the table.

There’ll be time enough for countin’, when the dealin’s done.

My uncle was a county prosecutor in Montana for 30 years. Conflict was part of his job. He was married to my Aunt Jean. He learned never to challenge his wife’s statements. My uncle advised me to never argue with his wife. Kenny Rogers’ lyrics come to mind as I think about his admonition.

I’m betting every one of you have a similar experience to my uncle. No matter how tough a person is, there’s a time to continue the conversation, a time to fold your cards, a time to walk away, and a time to run.