Every Off-Road Trip Needs A Leftie!

Pity the left-handed person. With something like 90 percent of the population right-handed, lefties are at a distinct disadvantage. But it’s not all bad news. In fact, lefties offer unique contributions to society.

You’re probably thinking, “Hey, Tom, what do you know about left-handed people?” Quite a bit, actually. I am one. Going on any many, many years, in fact. That’s a lot of living in a right-handed world. I have nothing against right-handed people, mind you. Just thought it’s time to stand up to the 10 – 15 percent of the population that favors the left hand.

What’s it like to be left-handed?

As I mentioned, it’s tough living in a right-handed world. Almost all coffee cups are made for right-handed people. No, I’m not talking about the placement of the handle. It’s the image or saying on the cup. When I grab a right-handed coffee cup, the saying faces away. I don’t get to enjoy the inspiring phrase along with my cup of joe.

Of course, the same holds true for a right-handed person who uses a left-handed mug.

Scissors are the same way. The majority are right-handed. We lefties have to search for a left-hand model. Or risk cutting at an angle or a curve.

Certain tools are right-handed, too. I’ve become somewhat ambidextrous from using power tools over the years. The picture to the right is a left-hander’s shower.

When we write or sign anything, we have to hold the left hand at a weird angle so we can see what we’re writing. We call it the hooked position. Geez. I get writer’s cramp at those book-signing events.

Lefties offer unique talents

We left-handed people are indispensable. You should invite at least one left-handed person to every four-wheeling excursion. Occasionally, a task requires reaching into a left-hand corner or space. Those situations are a bit awkward for a right-handed person. Not so for a leftie.

If you have just one set of gloves, you can share a glove with a right-handed buddy. Each person gets a glove suitable for the strong arm.

Play baseball? You have some advantage over right-handed hitters, research shows. As a group, lefties have a higher hitting average. Due to their stance at the plate, they’re in position to punch a grounder to right center. And then get a jump on the throw to first base.

Food cooked in a Dutch oven tastes much better when prepared by a leftie. Stirring the pot in a counterclockwise motion brings out the flavors more effectively. I’m serious! My stews and peach cobblers are a hit during every outing. It’s that slow, methodical stirring and mixing with my left hand that brings out the best in those ingredients.

Notable left-handed people throughout history

We lefties are in good company. Here is just a sampling of famous or important left-handed people:

• Buzz Aldrin
• Babe Ruth
• Sandy Koufax
• Oprah Winfrey
• Jay Leno
• Paul McCartney

On top of that, at least one retailer in the nation is devoted to left-handed consumers. Lefty’s The Left Hand Store carries a wide assortment of merchandise for the office, home, school and more. Check it out online.

Are you left-handed? Don’t despair. Be proud, you’re part of a special group. Roughly 10 -15 percent of the population is left-handed. Keep your chin up, and remember our motto: Lefties Do It Right.

P.S. This Aug. 13 is International Lefthanders Day. Mark your calendars, and get ready to celebrate with lefties everywhere.

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