Life is a video game

Jumanji is an extraordinary movie franchise. Not just because the part 1, that released in the 90s, starred Robin Williams and featured breakthrough animation. And not just because part 2 introducing The Rock was wildly entertaining. And not just because part 3 with Danny deVito is hilarious. What makes it truly incredible is that it mimics real life to the T.

Like the protagonist, we all find ourselves playing a game – but in our case we call it the game of life. The parallels are striking.

  • Once we begin playing, we can't stop until the game gets over i.e. when we die

  • The game (aka life) has rules that aren't straightforward

  • There could be a manual or two, written by players (people) who lived before us, but they aren't always clear or relevant. Some could downright misguide.

  • We discover and understand the rules of the game as we proceed on our journey towards the goal

  • The game evolves in due course

  • Unforeseen challenges abound at every corner

  • Every player (or individual) has inherent strengths and weaknesses

  • To move forward, we need to quickly comprehend the task at hand and take appropriate action

  • In the game of Jumanji, a misstep would cost the player their life; in real life, a misstep could also cost a life, or perhaps, lost opportunity

Personally, the most significant parallel between the game and life, is the sense of incredulity.

"Why am I here?”

"What is all this?"

"What the hell is happening?"

Irrespective of the unanswered questions, the fact remains that the game demands to be played. There's no way out until the game winds itself down.

Might as well have fun while playing it.

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