"As a matter of principle, I never attend the first annual anything"

The core idea here is a mix of humor and a bit of wisdom wrapped up in a pretty clever way. It’s about being cautious of commitments and hype around something that is untested or unproven. The phrase “first annual” is kind of an oxymoron—how can something be annual if it’s only happened once? So, the speaker is poking fun at this contradiction while also implying that it’s smart to let things prove their worth before jumping on board.

Historically, this quote is attributed to George Will, a well-known American political commentator. It’s got that classic Will wit—he's known for his sharp, often humorous take on life and politics. Imagine him at a dinner party, delivering this line with a twinkle in his eye, making his guests chuckle and think at the same time. It’s a reminder to be a bit skeptical about new ventures and to avoid being the guinea pig for every new idea that comes along.

Picture this: a friend invites you to the very first “Annual Great Pumpkin Festival” in your town. It sounds exciting—food stalls, games, prizes for the best pumpkin pie. But, you remember this quote. Instead of signing up right away, you decide to wait and see how the first one goes. Maybe talk to people who attend, see some pictures, read a few reviews. The first year, it turns out, is a bit of a mess—long lines, not enough pumpkins, vendors running out of food. Next year, they’ve learned from their mistakes. They’ve got more pumpkins, more food, and a better setup. Now, it’s starting to sound like something worth your time.

This principle can be super practical. Think of all the "must-have" gadgets that hit the market. The first generation often has bugs and issues—remember the first iPhone? It was revolutionary, sure, but it had problems. People who waited for the second iteration got a way better deal. So, whether it’s the latest tech, a new diet craze, or even a fresh business venture, sometimes it pays to wait and see. Let others test the waters first. You don’t always want to be the early adopter.

Applying this wisdom is straightforward. When faced with something new, take a step back. Ask yourself: has this been tried before? What’s the track record? Is it worth diving in headfirst, or is it better to wait and see? It’s not about being overly cautious, just smartly skeptical.

Imagine you’re at a coffee shop with a friend. They’re super excited about a new gym that just opened—first annual membership drive, they say. They’re ready to sign up. You, remembering this quote, suggest they hold off for a bit. “Why not see how the first few months go? See what the reviews are like?” Your friend thinks it over and decides to wait. Turns out, the gym has some teething problems—equipment not working, classes getting canceled. By waiting, they dodge a bullet and find a different gym that’s more established and reliable.

So, next time you’re faced with the “first annual” anything, take a moment. Think about letting it mature a bit before you commit. It’s a small step but can save you a lot of hassle—and maybe even a bit of your sanity.