The probability of regrowing enamel, and fun in the waiting versus fun in the using

Asked how the probability of regrowing his enamel stands now, the Wonders say it has improved by about 3%.

They tell him he is still only toying with the idea: like someone who studies a pencil from every angle — its size, shape, hardness, the surface it rests on — without ever pushing it.

It is fun, it gives a sense of control and power, and it distracts him from other things in his life, which he admits he likes doing.

Frederick recognises a belief that the fun lies in it taking time, since getting everything immediately would remove the fun; they call this very limiting and propose shifting it so that the fun lies in the using.

They illustrate with a man who spends twelve years at boat shows and magazines becoming an expert on boat building while never owning a boat: better to buy any boat and start using it, discovering through use what he would like next.

The difference is between a practical, experiential existence and one based on dreams, wishes and anticipation — both valid, but exploring and experiencing gains more, because nothing tells you what it feels like except getting on the water.