The Games We Play
Lorraine bought my grandson a magic game.
I was appalled!
On a DVD this magician was doing magic tricks and then revealing the secrets to the audience of how he performed all those amazing wonderful acts. I always thought that it was a no-no to show the ways and methods of trickery. Yes, we all knew that the performer was breaking the rules of the Magicians Union by divulging and exposing clandestine and time-honored facts of sorcery and wizardry.
However, the 4-year-old Lewis and I, his 75-year-old grandpa, sat and were dazzled by the subterfuge. Harry Houdini, the famous escape artist of the 1930s and 1940s, is still revered for his magical feats and his brilliant escape tactics. Magicians have always been highly regarded.
Another game we played has the overlong title, “Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?” Just be forewarned; these modern fifth-graders are really and truly smart. Actually I knew more about geography in the fifth grade than I do now. Many of those countries have broken apart and many have changed their capital cities.
A time-tested object is a deck of playing cards. Fifty-two cards, four suits (spades, diamonds, hearts, and clubs) are the source of much fun and entertainment. From “Steal the Old Man’s Bundle,” to “Gin Rummy” to “Go Fish,” the time goes by pleasantly and the kids love it.
Monopoly is a game for future financiers and real estate magnates. Greed and money gathering are necessary to become a winner in this serious game.
“Family Feud” is a game with multiple players that can either cement a family or get them angry. I never watched it on TV because those people were so disgustingly, manically happy. Their smiles never seemed real and they were forever clapping their hands at nothing important.
Due to having six grandchildren I get involved in many modern games that are clever and eye-opening. One is called “Cranium” and another is called “Imagine If.” The kids love them and I am getting used to joining in the fun. I’m trying my best but it will be quite a while till I become a true gamester. Games are a fun way of connecting generations.
