Life is truly a game; some people play it safely, while others take risks and chase adventure. For me, gaming has been more than just a pastime it has served as a refuge, a teacher, and a bridge to friendships that transcend borders. I am Jonathan Ivan D. Tampus, a fourth-year graduating student at Cordova Public College pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and working as an SEO intern at Kapwa Marketing.
Gaming has been a part of my life since I was 10, and it has shaped me in ways I never imagined. In this blog, I want to share my journey, the lessons I’ve learned, and how this hobby has become a defining part of my identity.
The Beginning: A Young Gamer’s Curiosity
I can still remember the first time I played a computer game. My older brother introduced me to it at an internet café. The neon lights of the monitors, the intense clicks of the keyboards, and the competitive energy in the air felt new and exciting. Little did I know that this experience would spark a lifelong passion.
Back then, our parents were strict about playing computer games. We had curfews, and if we broke them, we faced the legendary “pinch on the sideburns” from my aunt or mother. But even that didn’t stop us. My brother and I would sneak out to play, walking about 150 meters to the café, immersing ourselves in the digital worlds that awaited us.
The penalty for playing games too often was even harsher during my high school years. If we played too much, our daily allowance would be reduced from ₱40 to ₱30. But for me, the trade-off was worth it. The thrill, the challenges, and the satisfaction of improving my skills kept me returning for more.
The Evolution: More Than Just a Game
As the years went by, gaming became more than just fun; it became my escape. Like many others, I encountered tough times, moments of loneliness, and struggles where I felt I had no one to turn to. But gaming was always there.
I once came across a quote on Facebook that resonated deeply with me:
“I don’t know when it happened, but I realized one day, after all these years, I had been staring at the same screen for countless hours. I feel a bit of regret.
But then I remembered it was there during my tough times, in the lonely hours, times when I couldn’t have someone to run to, and yes, it is a reason I get happy.
Maybe it’s an addiction, but damn, it saved me.
I didn’t just play because I loved it, but also because it was there when no one else was.“
This quote reflects my feelings about gaming differently. Gaming wasn’t just about winning matches or leveling up; it was about having something constant in my life, something that brought me joy, comfort, and even purpose.
As the years went by, gaming became more than just fun it became my escape. Like many others, I encountered tough times, moments of loneliness, and struggles where I felt I had no one to turn to. But gaming was always there.
The Turning Point: Gaming as a Means to Earn
Many people see gaming as a waste of time, but it was an opportunity for me. When I discovered Dota 2, I didn’t just play for fun. I learned how to make money by buying and selling in-game items.
At first, it was just small transactions, such as trading items with fellow players. However, as I gained more experience, I realized there was an entire economy in the gaming world. I started making real money from something I loved, which changed my perspective. Gaming wasn’t just entertainment anymore; it was a skill that could be profitable.
This experience taught me valuable entrepreneurship, negotiation, and financial management lessons. Today, as an IT student, I see how my passion for gaming has influenced my love for technology. It pushed me to explore different aspects of the digital world, from programming to understanding online business models. Gaming made me realize that technology is not just about coding but innovation, creativity, and limitless possibilities.
Building Connections: Friends Beyond Borders
One of the most unexpected but rewarding aspects of gaming has been the friendships I’ve made along the way. Through online games, I’ve met people from around the world. We might not speak the same language fluently, but in gaming, communication transcends words. Strategy, teamwork, and shared victories create bonds as real as any face-to-face friendship.
Some of these friendships have lasted for years. We celebrate wins together, share life stories, and support each other during tough times. It’s incredible how a simple game can connect people who may never have met otherwise.
The Challenges of Being a Gamer
Of course, being a gamer isn’t always easy. There are misconceptions people often think gaming is a waste of time, an addiction, or something that only kids do. But those who genuinely understand gaming know it requires patience, skill, and dedication. It teaches problem-solving, strategic thinking, and adaptability, valuable skills in real life.
My biggest challenge is balancing gaming with school and other responsibilities. Sometimes, I get too immersed in a game and have to remind myself to focus on my studies. But over the years, I’ve learned the importance of time management and discipline. Gaming taught me that in life, just like in games, you need to know when to push forward and when to take a break.
Lessons from Gaming
Looking back, gaming has taught me more than I ever expected. Here are some key lessons I’ve learned:
- Persistence Pays Off– Whether it’s leveling up in a game or achieving a goal in life, perseverance is key.
- Teamwork is Everything– No matter how skilled you are, teamwork and communication make a difference.
- Adaptability is Crucial– Every game represents new challenges, just like life. The ability to adapt is what sets players and people apart.
- Mistakes Are Learning Opportunities– Failing in a game is just a step toward success. The same applies to life.
- Enjoy the Journey– It’s not always about winning; sometimes, it’s about the experience, the fun, and the memories you create along the way.
A Message to Fellow Gamers
To those with the same passion for gaming, never let anyone tell you that what you love is meaningless. Gaming, like any hobby, has value. It can be a source of joy, a way to connect with others, and even a path to new opportunities.
If gaming makes you happy, embrace it. If it helps you through tough times, let it be your refuge. Just remember to find balance. Enjoy the game, but don’t forget the responsibilities that come with real life.
My Story, My Game
Gaming has been a massive part of my life for over a decade. It started as a simple pastime, became a source of income, and evolved into a passion that shaped my personality and career path. It has given me memories, friendships, and skills that extend far beyond the screen.
As I approach graduation, I realize that life itself is a game. In it, we level up, face challenges, and strive for success. And just like in gaming, the key is to keep playing, learning, and, most importantly, enjoying the journey.
So, whether you’re a gamer or not, to anyone reading this, my story inspires you to embrace your passions, no matter what. After all, in the grand game of life, happiness is the ultimate victory.