It’s FRIDAY! And you know what is more exciting? It is BUNCO night at our church! If you have never experienced Bunco, I hope you will soon. Though Bunco’s roots are founded in nineteenth century England, it has regained popularity in the last several years. It is social game that is completely luck based, but it moves quickly and it allows many people to meet without the awkwardness of small talk.
Eric talked to me about the joys of Bunco for years before I tried it; however, once I did play the game, I absolutely loved it! If you are interested in hosting a Bunco night, check out the rules. Be sure to have a large room, treats, and several folding tables! Rules vary, so if there is a Bunco veteran in your group, you may want to let him or her explain the game to the others.
For someone as shy as me, game nights can sound like torture. Think about it: All those people. The pressure of not letting your team down. The possibility of looking like a fool. Why would anyone play games in large groups for fun??? Why, I ask you?!?!
Reason # 1 – Game Nights Break Down Barriers
The very concern I used to have about game nights is exactly what game nights help to alleviate: awkwardness. Part of the reason I do not invest much time in building new relationships is the uncomfortable mountain of small talk which is often required. Game nights do not require this! You sit down, you play, you laugh, you let your hair down, and you effortlessly learn about your new acquaintances. And if you do something silly, nobody really cares. (And those who do care need to get out more! ~smile~)
Reason # 2 – Game Nights Are All About Fun
Relationships need fun. This is harder for those personalities who place so much emphasis on accomplishment, propriety, and perfection. But, fun is an accomplishment! Laughter is great medicine. We need other people and game nights provide a relaxed, social atmosphere. A game night date with friends is not likely to turn into a business meeting. It is just about fun!
Reason # 3 – Game Nights Include Others
It is tempting to push people out of your life when you get into a relationship instead of inviting people into your life. Playing games keeps couples in social circulation. We have all had (or been) that friend who fell off the face of the Earth with each new relationship. As much as we love our sweeties, we need others in our lives too. Investing in friendships now, prior to marriage, will benefit you both when you are married. Please don’t give in to the temptation to ostracize yourselves from others, no matter how “in love” you are right now. ~smile~ You need to spend some time alone to talk and get to know each other better, but not every minute. If you forsake friendships now, don’t be surprised if your friends have moved on after your wedding.
Reason # 4 – Game Nights are Great Equalizers
Doctors, lawyers, students, mechanics, pastors, teachers, and store clerks can all enjoy playing games together. You do not have to have to drive the same kind of cars or have a similar net worth to play Cranium or Phase 10. Those who enjoy formal dinners can find something in common with those who enjoy tractor pulls at a good, old-fashioned game night. You do not need to be refined, exceedingly intelligent, or well-read to enjoy a rousing round of Mad Gab and eat snacks. Nor do you need to be a world-class redneck. We all co-exist peacefully across card tables from each other (well, depending on the level of friendly competition!).
Reason # 5 – Game Nights Create Memories
Some of my favorite memories include playing cards with Eric and my in-laws. We laugh, act goofy, and enjoy coffee and snacks. Even if Eric and I are not in a particularly good mood, games have a way of bringing the happy out of us. As your life unfolds and you have kids, make game night a tradition in your house. It will bring your family together during times they would otherwise retreat to the four corners of the house. Make it something everyone in the house looks forward to, and feel free to invite friends over to join in the fun occasionally. Make some great, inexpensive, happy memories!
Bonus Reason – Game Nights Give You Future Insight into Your Sweetheart
Game nights can help you observe your potential, future spouse. Does he get upset when he loses? Is she a competitive gamer? Does he laugh off when caught trying to cheat? Is she a gracious winner? Do you both have similar drives to win? Do one of you verbally put the other down during the gaming process? Answers to these questions provide insight into a person’s character and can be one of many factors assisting you with your long-term decision of who you are eventually going to marry.
It is so effortless to connect with the one(s) you love while playing games. It is a way to learn about, and enjoy, your sweetie without even trying. Don’t neglect to have fun together. Invest in finding new hobbies and games you enjoy together. Invite quality people into your gaming experience, and choose to love life.
Happy Bunco night to all!
Have you and your sweetie enjoyed attending or hosting a game night together?