I was introduced to the Kobayashi Maru when "Star Trek" first hit the big screen. At the time, I didn't realize the invaluable importance of recognizing a Kobayashi Maru scenario would have in my work as a counselor and life in general.
Kobayashi Maru is essentially an unsolvable problem employed during training to test and measure how the "Star Trek" crew would react when faced with an unsolvable, stressful situation. At work, identifying an unsolvable problem early saves me time and valuable energy.
A real-life example of Kobayashi Maru would be the North Korean government regime. Despite the urging of most countries all over the world, the last Stalin-esque regime on the planet continues to believe suppressing freedom and controlling the people is the way to go. Those guys simply don't get it. You can beat your head against the wall, and they will continue to abuse their power over the people. You know the type.
The point being is: Kobayashi Maru is created by people. While we cannot change those who abuse their power, those of true spirit can work together as a community, society and country to overcome problems and improve relations and conditions under which we live.
Michael Fiorito
Kaunakakai
