[Today is] the last day of Wintereenmas. Whether it represents to you a culmination of the past year’s triumphs, a celebration of the year to come, just a party, or “What the hell is a ‘winner bevis’?”, the close of Wintereenmas brings sadness to many gamers’ hearts. For some, Wintereenmas is like a small convention they return to each year, where it’s okay to geek out, it’s okay to stay up way too late playing games, and it’s okay to bring out your deck of Magic cards in hopes of a good match. For many non-hardcore gamers, it’s a release from the shackles that hold them into a game-less life, free from the limitations set by overprotective parents or significant others. Wintereenmas is a lot of things to a lot of people, and rather than mourn its end, we should remember fondly our experiences and apply our lessons learned to every day.
Games bring light to a world of darkness. Allow me to share
with you the qualities I am improving in my life, thanks to Wintereenmas 2009.
Humility – In our yearly competition for Wintereenmas King, the reigning king won, but abdicated in favor of second place.
Creativity – I made a Wii Cake (my 4th videogame confection), inspiring me to be more culinarily creative throughout the year.
Friendship – We welcomed several new revelers this year, including Chris, with whom I share a Fallout 3 kinship.
Planning – Why did we plan on visiting Dave & Buster’s on a Saturday night? Surely, we’ll never make that mistake again.
