Just realized I was wrong about gatekeeping at game nights

I used to think strict rules at my local cafe's game night in Springfield were just for control freaks. Then last month, this guy named Ben explained he brings his autistic brother, and knowing the exact start time and game ahead of time is the only way his brother feels comfortable enough to join. That one conversation in the parking lot after a session of 'Wingspan' totally flipped my view. What's a rule at your local meetup that actually makes sense once you know the reason?

2 comments

2 Comments

smith.jordan10d ago

Okay but is a set start time really gatekeeping? Most places have schedules. That feels like basic planning, not some harsh rule meant to keep people out. Maybe the guy's brother needs that, sure, but calling the old view wrong seems like a stretch. It's just a cafe trying to run an event without chaos. Why make it a big moral lesson?

linda65810d ago

Honestly, I'm the friend who shows up 20 minutes late to everything so maybe I'm biased. But a set time can feel like a wall if you're the one who can't ever make it on time. It's not always about chaos, sometimes it's just about letting people join in when they can.