The Impact of History on My Life: From GCSE to Playful Games
I am currently studying History as a GCSE, and my advanced knowledge of it has played a pivotal role in achieving top grades. So, yes, I have indeed incorporated history into my life, and it has helped alleviate the pressure that comes with academic challenges.
I take history seriously and invest considerable effort in studying it. One of the lessons I've learned is the importance of understanding Canada's rich history. From the ice trade of the 1800s, where locals would preserve their food by keeping it cold, to the Hudson Bay's fur trade that continues to this day, it is clear that the hardworking individuals who laid the foundations of this country did not do so overnight. This journey through history teaches me to strive and not repeat past mistakes, as revisiting old, harmful cycles can be distressing.
On a personal level, I often reflect on the saying, 'the past is history, the future is a mystery, and now is the present.' This mantra keeps me focused on the here and now and encourages forward movement. For example, instead of wallowing in past disappointments, I choose to march towards better, more productive days.
My history education has not only been academic but has also influenced my approach to play and social interactions. For instance, during my time in Year 6 and 7, we played a game called 'gang up chasey.' This game is akin to a modern version of tag, where one person is 'it' and tags others to join their team, much like an infectious game.
Not every experience in this game was positive for me. One day, I was selected as 'it,' a role that came with a significant amount of responsibility. Alas, my initial chase was thwarted as everyone scattered, leaving me to count for 30 seconds. Feeling dejected, I retreated to our school garden. It was here that the shadow of the Vietnam War captivated my imagination, guiding me to a nearby bush.
In the garden, I transformed myself into a Vietcong soldier, blending into the darkness just as they had done during the war. Patiently and stealthily, I lay low. Then, as luck would have it, a group of kids playing nearby made the fatal mistake of walking close to my hiding spot. With a strategic jump, I emerged from the bushes and tagged every single one of them. The success of this impromptu game added another layer of depth to my understanding of history, making it not just about memorization but also about improvisation and clever planning.
Through history, I have learned valuable lessons that apply to various aspects of life, from academic performance to gameplay. History, with its stories and lessons, not only enriches our understanding of the past but also offers critical insights for navigating the present and shaping a better future.