Episodes
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In this episode of Play Saves the World, the hosts Daniel and Kevin are joined by Thomas Jones, also known as the Birdman, to discuss the love of homing pigeons. They talk about the different types of pigeons, the special abilities of homing pigeons, and the bond between humans and these birds. Thomas shares his personal journey with pigeons and how they saved his life by keeping him away from negative influences. The conversation also touches on the intelligence of crows and the role of nature in providing a sense of freedom and calm. Thomas shares how he got into raising and racing pigeons, including a story about hatching a pigeon from an egg found by his son. He talks about different types of pigeons and their abilities, as well as the process of racing pigeons. Thomas also discusses his ministry of releasing pigeons at funerals and weddings, explaining the symbolism behind it. He shares some fun facts about pigeons and surprises the hosts with a live pigeon named Wolf. The conversation ends with Thomas sharing his YouTube channel and the impact his videos have had on viewers.
Takeaways
Homing pigeons have a special ability to find their way back home no matter where they are released.
Pigeons can form a strong bond with their owners and provide a sense of companionship and dependability.
Nature and animals, like pigeons, can bring a sense of calm, joy, and connection to something greater.
Hobbies and playful activities, such as keeping pigeons, can have a profound impact on one's life and provide a sense of purpose and meaning. Pigeon racing involves training and racing homing pigeons over long distances.
Releasing pigeons at funerals and weddings symbolizes the release of the spirit and brings comfort to grieving families.
Keeping pigeons requires regular cleaning and protection from predators.
Pigeons can live up to 20 years in captivity.
Pigeons have a heart rate of 600 beats per minute while flying.
Different breeds of pigeons have different abilities and characteristics.
Sound Bites
"The birds actually were good for me and kept me away from a lot of things that I could have gotten involved in as a youth."
"We can find calm and love in things that aren't actually affectionate."
"Hello, Slater. Thank you. I think Slater is the first non-human guest we've had on this podcast."
"I got one more surprise here thought I'd share before we go and this is Wolf"
"Say hello to Wolf"
"I'm embarrassed that I, I showed my ignorance in front of the bird man"
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
02:40 The Special Abilities of Homing Pigeons
07:58 The Bond Between Humans and Pigeons
13:23 The Calming and Freeing Power of Nature
20:52 Rediscovering Childhood Hobbies
24:49 Thomas's Journey into Raising and Racing Pigeons
32:40 The Symbolism of Releasing Pigeons at Funerals and Weddings
35:41 Fun Facts About Pigeons: Heart Rates and Training
41:01 The Challenges of Raising Pigeons: Cleaning and Care
43:37 The Longevity of Pigeons: Up to 20 Years in Captivity
45:51 Thomas's YouTube Channel: Sharing the Love for Pigeons
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In this episode, Daniel and Kevin discuss the necessary and unnecessary aspects of play. They explore how play helps us focus on the present moment and be more present to the realities in front of us. They also discuss how play reflects the values of God and is a core element of our humanity. Playfulness allows us to be fully engaged in the present and brings joy and fulfillment to our lives. Play allows us to be present and free from the burden of seriousness. It is a way to engage in lightness and self-forgetfulness. Playfulness is a mark of divinity, as angels can fly because they take themselves lightly. Play is unnecessary and purposeless, which brings joy and freedom. It helps us reject the oppressive narratives of the world and embrace our core identity. Play is a revolutionary act that rejects the compulsory nature of work and allows us to be truly human.
Takeaways
Play is both necessary and unnecessary. It is unnecessary in the sense that it involves unnecessary obstacles and is an end unto itself. However, it is necessary for human flourishing and brings joy and fulfillment to our lives.
Play helps us focus on the present moment and be more present to the realities in front of us. - It allows us to let go of worries about the future or regrets about the past.
Playfulness reflects the values of God and is a core element of our humanity. It is a gift that allows us to fully engage in the present and experience the joy of being.
Engaging in play can be a form of meditation or worship, where we focus on the present moment and let go of future-oriented or goal-oriented thinking.
Play is a reminder that life is not just about achieving goals or being productive, but also about experiencing joy, connection, and the beauty of the present moment. Play allows us to be present and free from the burden of seriousness.
Playfulness is a mark of divinity, as angels can fly because they take themselves lightly.
Play is unnecessary and purposeless, which brings joy and freedom.
Play helps us reject the oppressive narratives of the world and embrace our core identity.
Play is a revolutionary act that rejects the compulsory nature of work and allows us to be truly human.
Sound Bites
"Play really helps us to focus on the gift of being over doing."
"Play gives us the ability to be more present to the things right in front of us."
"Play is the necessary unnecessary."
"Creating points of focus and goals that are so unnecessary that we don't get tricked into thinking they are serious and important."
"Creating a mandala that gets destroyed or moving a piece across a board that doesn't matter."
"Play is a powerful tool for freedom and gracefulness."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
14:40 Recap of Previous Episodes
19:50 The Necessary Unnecessary: Play and Our Humanity
23:53 Play as a Reflection of God's Values
25:54 The Gifts of Playfulness: Joy and Fulfillment
29:16 Play: A Necessary and Defining Element of Our Humanity
32:10 The Power of Presence and the Freedom of Play
37:22 The Theology of Play: Connecting Play and Grace
46:48 Embracing Lightness and Laughter: The Oppression of Seriousness
50:23 Playfulness as a Revolutionary Act
57:15 The Joy of Being Light: Laughter and Freedom
01:00:51 Exploring Tabletop Games and the Joy of Raising Homing Pigeons
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Missing episodes?
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Previously, We Discussed How Play is Non-Instrumental, Voluntary, and Unnecessary. And yet, as will discover this episode, it is a necessity for human flourishing. It is the "necessary unnecessity."
Playfulness is ubiquitous for animal life
Playfulness in Ubiquitous to Human Experience Since the Beginning - For Adults Too
* Royal Game of Ur (2500 BC)
* Barbara Ehrenreich - Dancing in the Streets - A History of Collective Joy
* Herodotus - Games invented in Lydia (450 BC)
* Chess, Go, Backgammon, Mancala - Africa, Asia, Middle East
* Alfonso's Book of Games (1283)
Playfulness is Behind Creativity and Cultural Advancement
* Steven Johnson - Wonderland: How Play Made the Modern World
* Banu Musa Brothers (9th century Baghdad)
* Merlin's Magical Museum (Thomas Denton, 18-19th century England)
* Punchcards lead to looms lead to computer programming
Play is Essential for Human Development
* Dr. Stuart Brown has written and taught extensively on this topic, discovering that play is essential for emotional, physical, and mental development and health--and that the absence of play can lead to social and emotional challenges later on in life.
* Jonothan Haidt has recently also argued for the importance of free play for human development
Play is Therefore a Basic Human Right
* J. Drew Lanham - People have fought and died for the right of others to play
* It is not a luxury; it is an essential part of being human
* Dave Bindewald - In the face of suffering, our task is not to marginalize play, but to double-down on its importance.
Jane McGonigal - Given that We are Wired for Play, How Can We Gamify Life?
* Would probably still define work and play a little differently than she does (she says play is work we enjoy), but she is great at exploring ways to bring elements of play (voluntary, unnecessary obstacles) to work
* What are some examples?
* Quests to do chores
* Tombstone Hold-Em
* Crowdsourcing Research - Three Body Problem
* However, they are still a means to an end.
So What's Going On Here? If Play is Unnecessary, Why is it Such a Necessity?
* On our next episode, the spiritual necessity of play
Takeaways
Play is a universal and essential part of the human experience, not just for children but also for adults.
Playfulness and play have been present throughout history and across cultures, from ancient games to modern-day fashion and coding.
Animals also engage in play, demonstrating the innate nature of playfulness.
Play is a catalyst for human creativity and cultural achievements, shaping our society and civilization.
Play allows for experimentation, exploration, and the development of new ideas and concepts. Play is a universal and essential part of the human experience.
Bringing elements of play into other areas of life can lead to increased creativity, team building, and enjoyment.
Games can be used to crowdsource solutions to complex problems.
Sound Bites
"Play is a universal and essential part of the human experience"
"Animals play on various levels, demonstrating the innate nature of playfulness"
"Playfulness is a major part of human culture and has shaped our creative and cultural achievements"
"Energy and capitalism and growth, you know, these new areas and fields inventions come about really through play"
"You know, can bypass our normal systems"
"Play is not a luxury. It's an essential part of what it means to be human. It's a human right."
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In this episode, Daniel and Kevin explore the concept of play and its distinction from work. They discuss how play is fundamentally non-instrumental, meaning it is not a means to an end. Play can generate its own purpose and goals, which are often short-lived and inconsequential but deeply meaningful. They reference the work of philosopher Bernard Suits, who argues that our true human identity is as the grasshopper, a playful creature, despite societal pressures to be like the ant, focused on work. Play and games are interconnected, as play requires some structure or rules to create a sense of playfulness. Play is defined as the voluntary attempt to overcome unnecessary obstacles. It is non-instrumental, meaning it is not a means to an end. Play is also unnecessary, but it is essential for human beings. It allows us to be fully human and brings meaning to our lives. Play can be structured or unstructured, but it always involves accepting certain obstacles or rules. It is distinct from work, which is instrumental and necessary for survival. Play is wired into our nature and is a fundamental part of being human.
Takeaways
Play is fundamentally non-instrumental, meaning it is not a means to an end
Play can generate its own purpose and goals, which are often short-lived and inconsequential but deeply meaningful
Our true human identity is as the grasshopper, a playful creature, despite societal pressures to be focused on work
Play and games are interconnected, as play requires some structure or rules to create a sense of playfulness Play is the voluntary attempt to overcome unnecessary obstacles
It is non-instrumental and not a means to an end
Play is unnecessary but essential for human beings
It can be structured or unstructured, but always involves accepting certain obstacles or rules
Play is distinct from work, which is instrumental and necessary for survival
Play is wired into our nature and is a fundamental part of being human
Sound Bites
"Play is fundamentally non-instrumental"
"Play can generate its own end, its own goal"
"Our true human identity is as the grasshopper"
"The voluntary attempt to overcome unnecessary obstacles"
"It is the necessary unnecessary to be human"
"Play is without a means to an end"
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Recap
11:12 The Non-Instrumental Nature of Play
30:49 Embracing Our Inner Grasshopper
32:53 Introduction and Dalek Voice
37:30 The Definition of Play
45:21 The Essentiality of Play
54:34 Structured vs Unstructured Play
56:21 The Distinction Between Play and Work
59:42 Wired for Play -
To define what play is, we have to define what work is.
(This isn’t all that unusual – scholars do it with secular vs. religious, or prose vs. poetry.)
Work or labor is intentional human activity to support our needs and wants, or those of others or our larger group.
Work is something we do for another purpose – it is 2-eyed, 1 eye to the activity itself and 1 to its outside result (payment, food, etc.).
It is a means to an end.
Work isn’t inherently bad. In the Bible it is implied that humans would work the earth before the Fall. Work is not a result of original sin, but original sin corrupts work, so that the ground is cursed, and there are thorns and thistles in our gardening. We will now sweat to make the bread we must eat.
In fact, work can be marvelous
- a sense of purpose and contribution and accomplishment
- The pleasure of your earned paycheck for your labor
- The ability to form and improve our world
- The freedom to engage in different kinds of work to support us
- The notion of vocation, that our work might be something God calls us to do with our time and energy
Work and play are not necessarily opposed to each other
Sometimes the distinction is said to be productivity, but this isn’t true (e.g., work day with nothing getting done versus Minecraft)
Jane McGonagal says that play is just work we enjoy
Brian Sutton-Smith: the opposite of work is depression
One person’s work can be another person’s play (e.g., computer programming, professional athletes, spreadsheets)
Work being play would be awesome!!!
But clearly work can be oppressive
Some forms of work are oppressive or dangerous – factories, or gig economy with no benefits and vulnerable employment
Being underpaid because your labor is set by supply and demand
You might hate your job but are stuck with it because you need the money
If you cannot work you will have no way to support yourself
You are vulnerable to work changing, being fired, AI
The instrumentalization of all things, including our time (Oliver Burkeman)
When we are only a cog in the machine, when we spend our days only in service to some other goal, then everything become a means to an end, and we never get to the end itself.
Such instrumentalization also generates a disturbing lack of presence. We are always lost in the future (or sometimes the past), which spiritual traditions (and psychology) tell us are often the causes of restlessness and fear: “do not worry about tomorrow” (Luke 12), Buddhism’s grounding the present
Protestant work ethic
A rather strange valuing of work due to Protestant ideas about grace, salvation, and human effort (since you are saved by grace alone but cannot know if you are truly among the elect who are saved, your best hope is to be a good worker in the vague hope that this indicates your salvation, but it cannot actually impact it)
As a result, we come to tie our sense of self worth and value to our work, to our productivity through work – so if you fail at work you fail at life. We value others based on their wealth and work habits
Martin Luther King Jr. tied the Protestant Work Ethic to racism and the exploitation of the poor (“We have deluded ourselves into believing the myth that capitalism grew and prospered out of the Protestant ethic of hard work and sacrifice. The fact is that capitalism was built on the exploitation and suffering of black slaves and continues to thrive on the exploitation of the poor—both black and white, here and abroad.”)
This impacts many Western Protestant cultures where one should stay extremely busy and complain about work a lot – don’t take vacation, let work consume you because it’s inherently good to work.
As a result, we can feel a profound lack of freedom, value, and agency.
The truth is: work is often overwhelming. It can be good. But it cannot save us. It is not our true purpose. -
Daniel and Kevin attended Geekway to the West in St. Charles, Missouri, and bring you this special episode filmed live with their 3,500 best friends. Some special guests join us, and then we share some favorite convention moments and games, along with some special announcements.
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Sam Macdonald of Garphill Games discusses his religious journey and board game philosophy. Sam explores the connections between board game design and religious faith, especially in the areas of community, self-expression, rules, fun, and the joy of discovery. We also take a stab at potential games based on Biblical stories.
Takeaways
Game design can reflect the heart of God by promoting fellowship, agency, following rules, and having fun.
The Art of Discovery in games, with hidden gems and Easter eggs, can create a sense of enjoyment and excitement for players.
Game design can provide opportunities for players to express themselves creatively and explore different strategies.
Following rules in games and in life can lead to a more peaceful and joyful experience.
The intersection of games and faith offers unique opportunities for exploration and growth. Finding new strategies and paths to victory in board games can be a fun and rewarding experience.
The Bible contains hidden meanings and connections between passages that can be discovered through deep reading and study.
Games can facilitate fellowship and problem-solving, providing a safe environment to solve problems and feel a sense of mastery.
The art of discovery can also be found in reading scriptures, where the Holy Spirit can illuminate truth to the reader.
Designing biblical-themed games can be challenging, as it's important to balance creating enjoyable experiences with conveying a message.
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The conversation explores the idea that faith is often associated with restrictions and limitations, but it should actually set us free. The Spirit of God works through play and games to bring about freedom. The conversation also touches on the article 'Play and Freedom, Patterns of Life and the Spirit' by Simeon Zahl, which discusses the tension between law and grace in Protestant Christianity. It highlights the need to understand the freedom that comes with the Spirit and the danger of idolizing past patterns of faith. The conversation also delves into the popular notion of destiny and how it can hinder the freedom of the Spirit. In this conversation, Daniel and Kevin discuss the concept of play and its relationship to grace and work. They explore the idea that play is an attitude and an activity that brings joy, freedom, and creativity. They emphasize the importance of play in living a meaningful life and how it can help us overcome the burden of seriousness and unrealistic expectations. They also announce a transition in the podcast to focus on the intersection of play and meaning, with the new name 'Play Saves the World.'
Soundbites
"What if the point of faith is to set us free for something better?"
"The Spirit of God makes freedom a reality through play and games."
"Is grace something that removes us from the law or empowers us to keep the law?"
"The spirit is playful, meaning that it causes joy and delight."
"Play is grace that expresses itself through play."
"Play is the overcoming of unnecessary obstacles."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction: Faith and Freedom
07:30 The Tension Between Law and Grace
13:25 The Freedom of the Spirit
27:56 The Spirit of Play and Freedom
34:17 The Unimportance of Play's Goals and Purposes
45:45 Play as an Attitude to Life
Takeaways
Faith should set us free rather than restrict us.
The Spirit of God works through play and games to bring about freedom.
There is a tension between law and grace in Protestant Christianity.
Idolizing past patterns of faith can hinder the freedom of the Spirit.
The popular notion of destiny can limit our understanding of the freedom of the Spirit. Play is an attitude and an activity that brings joy, freedom, and creativity.
Play helps us overcome the burden of seriousness and unrealistic expectations.
Play is an essential part of living a meaningful life and being fully human.
The concept of play can be applied to various aspects of life, not just board games.
The podcast will transition to focus on the intersection of play and human flourishing, with the new name 'Play Saves the World.' -
We explore the concept of seasons in the context of board gaming and life, and discuss the origins of the phrase "this too shall pass" and its relevance to the changing nature of emotions and experiences. Daniel and Kevin share their personal gaming stages and how their approach to board games has evolved over time. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the importance of selectivity and finding contentment in the games we already own. We discuss their evolving gaming preferences and the stages of faith. We explore the enjoyment of lighter and quicker games, the appreciation for simple solo games, and the adaptation to changing gaming preferences. We also draw parallels between stages of faith and stages of gaming, reflecting on the journey from zealousness to a holistic approach. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the continued enjoyment of games and the avoidance of jadedness.
Takeaways
Gaming preferences can evolve over time, with a shift towards lighter and quicker games.
Simple solo games can provide a peaceful and meditative experience.
Adapting to changing gaming preferences and finding enjoyment in different types of games is important.
There are parallels between stages of faith and stages of gaming, with a journey from zealousness to a holistic approach.
Continued enjoyment of games requires avoiding jadedness and appreciating the role of play in the larger human experience.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
02:01 The Origins of the Topic
03:02 The Concept of Seasons
04:22 The Story of "This Too Shall Pass"
06:21 The Wisdom of Ecclesiastes
09:17 Personal Gaming Stages
12:22 Discovering Board Game Geek
13:34 The Magic of Board Games
15:17 Rediscovering the Magic
24:16 Transition to Selectivity
28:02 Realizing the Need for Selectivity
30:12 Preference for Lighter and Quicker Games
30:57 Enjoyment of Simple Solo Games
33:18 Adapting to Changing Gaming Preferences
36:18 Appreciation for Game Setup and Learning
37:35 Stages of Faith and Stages of Gaming
46:15 Connecting Games to Life and Faith
49:07 Reflections on Becoming the Person You Once Judged
53:08 Continued Enjoyment of Games and Avoiding Jadedness
57:13 Upcoming Episode: Book Club and Special Announcement
Daniel's stages/approaches of gaming
Trusting - You just trust what others tell you (games are for kids)
Zealous - You dig deep into the particular details and embrace them and defending them as world-defining. (Tell others about types of games.)
Sectarian - This thing unites and defines your particular people. (You find your peeps and you celebrate what makes your group unique.)
Personal - You own this thing for yourself. You question it, make it your own. (Finding your own gaming style; doesn't have to be like others.)
Connecting - You see how this thing is connected to other things. It doesn't exist in a vacuum. (How do games relate to other things in life.)
Holistic - This thing is just part of a larger whole. (Gaming is part of a the larger mystery of life)
NEXT TIME - Book Club: Simeon Zahl Article, "Play and Freedom: Patterns of Life in the Spirit"
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In this episode of Board Game Faith, we discuss the topic of role play, both in games and in real life. We explore the benefits and risks of role play and dive into a video from the YouTube Channel @PeopleMakeGames about the popular role-playing game Jubensha in China, with its deep character development and commitment involved in role-playing games and share personal experiences with role play. We also highlight the power of role play in building empathy and connection with others.
In this part of the conversation, the hosts discuss the social dynamics of playing Jubensha and the emotional dimensions of role-playing games. They explore the idea that playing Jubensha creates a sense of connection and intimacy among players, even with strangers. They also discuss the satisfaction of solving logic deduction puzzles and the self-discovery that can come from playing a role. The hosts delve into the topic of violence in games and the different reactions to murder versus assault. They question why murder is often seen as acceptable entertainment while other forms of violence are not. The conversation ends with a discussion on the potential marginalization of women's experiences in gaming and the need for further exploration of these topics. In this conversation, Daniel and Kevin discuss the benefits of role-playing in games and in everyday life. They explore the idea of assuming different roles and how it can lead to personal growth, catharsis, and self-understanding. They also touch on the potential threats to games, such as increasing state interference and censorship. The conversation delves into the parallels between role-playing in games and in religious life, highlighting the idea of playing our best selves and the potential for personal transformation. They also mention the use of role-playing in therapy and the positive impact it can have. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the value of role-playing and its potential for building community and personal development.
Takeaways
We all play different roles every day, whether it's in games or in real life.
Role-playing games involve deep character development and commitment, allowing players to - explore different personas and motivations.
Role play can be a powerful tool for building empathy and connection with others.
The popular role-playing game Jubensha in China has gained massive popularity and has many dedicated shops.
There are both benefits and risks associated with role play, and it's important to approach it with intention and awareness. Playing Jubensha creates a sense of connection and intimacy among players, even with strangers.
Role-playing games provide satisfaction through solving logic deduction puzzles and self-discovery.
There is a discrepancy in society's acceptance of murder as entertainment compared to other forms of violence.
The marginalization of women's experiences in gaming may be reflected in the different reactions to murder versus assault. Role-playing in games and in everyday life can lead to personal growth, catharsis, and self-understanding.
Increasing state interference and censorship pose threats to games and their appreciation in different parts of the world.
Role-playing in religious life can help individuals play their best selves and foster personal transformation.
Role-playing can be used in therapy as a therapeutic tool.
Role-playing has the potential to build community and create positive social connections.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction: Roles We Play in Life
01:19 Welcome to Board Game Faith
12:37 Personal Experiences with Role-Playing Games
15:59 Benefits of Role-Playing Games
27:45 The Cozy Murder Genre
28:22 The Comfort of Murder
29:28 The Acceptance of Murder as Entertainment
32:12 The Role of Conflict and Risqué Elements in Fiction
33:21 The Influence of Patriarchy on the Perception of Violence
34:48 State Interference and Censorship in Role-Playing Games
36:25 The Benefits of Role-Playing in Everyday Life
40:10 The Geopolitical Implications of Role-Playing Games
41:28 The Therapeutic Potential of Role-Playing
52:09 The Role of Religion as Role-Playing
54:05 The Intersection of Gaming and Faith
55:11 Upcoming Episode: Seasons of Life and Gaming
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In this episode, Rev. Dr. Casey Sigmon, Professor of Preaching and Worship at St. Paul School of Theology, discusses the importance of play and imagination in combating burnout and enhancing preaching. She shares her background in film and theater and how it influenced her approach to worship. Casey also introduces the Pause/Play Center for Clergy Renewal, which focuses on providing rest and healing for pastors. The conversation highlights the power of well-preached sermons and the need for pastors to prioritize their own well-being, the importance of taking a leap of faith in preaching, and the connection between imagination and play. The conversation explores the resistance to play and the counter-cultural nature of play. Casey shares her favorite games, Killer Bunnies and Cards Against Humanity, and discusses shows that are not good until they're suddenly good.
Takeaways
Burnout is common among those in caring roles, and play can be a transformative tool to combat it.
Imagination is a crucial aspect of preaching and worship, allowing for creativity and connection with the audience.
The Pause/Play Center for Clergy Renewal provides a space for pastors to rest, heal, and develop new habits for preaching and pastoral care.
Well-preached sermons that engage the imagination and connect with the human condition have a greater impact on listeners.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction: Burnout and the Power of Play
03:14 Special Episode Milestones
06:43 Guest Introduction: Casey Sigman
08:03 Casey's Background and Journey
13:14 Influence of Film and Music Videos
21:39 The Creation of the Paws Play Center
25:06 The Importance of Imagination
27:31 The Impact of Well-Preached Sermons
29:25 The Importance of Taking a Leap of Faith in Preaching
33:04 The Connection Between Imagination and Play
37:25 The Pause Play Center and Its Offerings
44:32 Resistance to Play and the Counter-Cultural Nature of Play
49:07 Why People Are Unaware of Their Need for Play
53:02 Favorite Games: Killer Bunnies and Cards Against Humanity
56:03 Shows That Are Not Good Until They're Good
57:45 How to Connect with Casey and the Pause Play Center -
Oliver Burkeman's 4,000 Weeks: Time Management for Mortals (2022) is our pick for our monthly book club. We loved how it made us think about our modern drive to master time and efficiency, and how this debilitates human happiness. Rethinking our lives and our use of time means more time for flourishing, games, and play, even if we don't get everything done (because we never will).
We explore the concept of time and our relationship with it, highlighting the illusion of time management and the artificiality of modern time. We also discuss the idea of embracing our limits and the futility of trying to battle against time. Overall, the book challenges the notion that we can control time and encourages a deeper reflection on how we spend our limited time on Earth. It delves into the flawed attempts to be efficient and the instrumentalization of time in modern society. The conversation also highlights the importance of living in the present moment and the dangers of constantly living for the future. It discusses the measurement of time and how it contributes to impatience and restlessness. The conversation draws from various spiritual traditions and emphasizes the need to let go of future expectations. It explores the joy of settling and the joy of missing out, as well as the pressure to choose a path and the depth of commitment. Finally, it emphasizes the importance of focusing on the next step rather than waiting for the perfect opportunity. We emphasize the need to make time for play and challenge societal expectations that prioritize work over play. We explore the idea that play is an end in itself and can resist the Protestant work ethic. We also discuss the value of hobbies and the role of play in grounding us in the present moment. Finally, we reflect on the importance of using our time and talents well to make life more luminous for others.
Takeaways
Embrace the nature of time and avoid trying to make it something it's not.
Beware of the dangers of efficiency as an idol and the instrumentalization of time.
Learn to live in the present moment and let go of future expectations.
Develop a curiosity and openness towards challenges and problems.
Settle and commit to a path, finding joy in depth and commitment. Break down projects into smaller steps and focus on taking the next right step.
Make time for play and challenge societal expectations that prioritize work over play.
Recognize that play is an end in itself and can resist the Protestant work ethic.
Engage in hobbies and embrace the value of weird and unique interests.
Use your time and talents well to make life more luminous for others.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction: The Battle with Time
03:13 Lent and Time
08:23 Animals and Time
11:27 The Illusion of Time Management
13:29 4,000 Weeks: Time Management for Mortals
19:36 The Artificiality of Time
21:20 The Battle with Time
22:43 Embracing the Nature of Time
23:19 The Flawed Attempt of Efficiency
24:26 The Instrumentalization of Time
25:33 Living for the Future
26:37 The Present Moment
27:31 The Measurement of Time
28:38 Impatience and Restlessness
29:52 Expectations and Frustrations
30:50 Drawing from Spiritual Traditions
31:47 Letting Go of Future Expectations
32:28 The Joy of Settling
35:20 The Joy of Missing Out
36:42 The Pressure to Choose a Path
39:38 The Depth of Commitment
40:55 Focusing on the Next Step
41:47 Taking the Next Right Step
42:21 Breaking Down Projects into Smaller Steps
43:04 Making Time for Play
43:35 Play as an End in Itself
44:02 Letting Go of Societal Expectations
45:18 The Importance of Hobbies
46:16 The Present Moment in Play
47:26 Resisting the Protestant Work Ethic
48:37 The Value of AT-like Activities
49:24 Embracing Weird Hobbies
56:56 Using Time and Talents Well
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You might think death and gaming are not connected. But loss is always a part of games as pieces and elements are lost. Some elements of games are fairly abstract (Uno cards or chess pieces), but other elements can be very personal, such as a character you've played for years in D&D or in a legacy type game such as Gloomhaven. Games also address death through theme and content: One Night Werewolf has players killing each other; Village has meeples age and die, to be moved to the graveyard; Endurance face nearly certain death even as a miraculous escape remains possible (Shackleton achieved it, after all!). Such gaming experiences give us vital ways of thinking about and discussing death and grief, as well as suggesting ways of facing our own mortality.How is death represented in games?* It is the nature of games to abstract reality. How to abstract death?* Simplest example perhaps is chess - the piece is removed from the board for the rest of the game* The state is permanently changed for the rest of the game* But we don’t care about chess pieces - we care about humans and living creatures (maybe trees?), so games that evoke humanlike characters make us feel loss in powerful waysA word about grief* Grief is a natural & important and unavoidable response to loss* This is not a look at grief, except perhaps tangentially.Interesting examples of death in games* Village - cemetery, legacy* Werewolf - you are out of the game and watch what is happening to everyone else* Games that poke at death in a humorous or horror way - Zombies, etc.* Legacy games where the state is permanently changed even from one game to another* Art games (like the kind Alice Connor enjoys) that represent the emotions of death? Train and Endurance.How do we feel about death in games? When we die or kill off another player?Lessons of faith from death in games* The importance of being present to the moment * Parent and child with potentially fatal cancer playing games together during treatments. Forgetting the treatments. The gift of games is to anchor us in the present.* The permanence of death - Ways of coping when states permanently change* On the other hand, the impermanence of death - Perhaps what Buddhists call the illusion of death?? Life continues. Another wave forms on the ocean. * Reminder of John Glynn* How easily we can become numb to death—precisely by abstracting it—in real life.Another discussion of each in games from the “Two Wood for a Wheat” podcast - https://boardgamegeek.com/blogpost/135031/death-board-games00:00 Introduction: Death in Gaming12:12 Lightening the Mood with Wordplay13:12 Abstracting Death in Games18:20 Games that Deal with Mortality23:04 Examples of Death in Games26:54 Village: Generations and Legacy29:30 ISS Vanguard: Memorial Wall31:51 Death and Remembering32:27 The Changing Nature of Funerals34:08 Using Games as a Eulogy35:33 Art Games and Emotional Impact36:16 Legacy Games and Permanence39:36 Lessons of Faith from Death and Games48:19 The Importance of Memory49:21 Death as a Doorway53:28 The Ocean and Impermanence56:36 Wrapping UpCALL TO ACTION:- Subscribe to our newsletter (https://buttondown.email/BoardGameFaith)- Support us on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/boardgamefaith/)- Interact with us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/boardgamefaith/)- Discord us Discord (https://discord.gg/MRqDXEJZ)- Chat with us on Wavelength (iOS and MacOS and iPadOS only) (https://wavelength.app/invite/AGSmNhIYS5B#ABhy7aXOO04TO6HTS4lelw--)
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We discuss the concept of surviving in a post-apocalyptic world and how it relates to games and life. YouTube's @PeopleMakeGames explored Wasteland Weekend, a unique event where thousands of people role-play life in a post-apocalyptic setting. We delve into the idea of playing the wrong game and the importance of being present in the moment, the point of a game, and the cost of community.
The conversation explores the themes of belonging in the family of God, the importance of vulnerability and shared burdens, earning the right to belong in a community, the logistics and planning of Wasteland Weekend, the value of sacrifice in building community, the role of community in houses of worship, the experience of shared vulnerability in authentic community, the cost of community and the risk of getting hurt, the value of grace and the cost of investment, the fascination with post-apocalyptic themes, the ancient origins of apocalyptic literature, the hopeful and revealing nature of post-apocalyptic stories, exploring human nature in post-apocalyptic narratives, poking at our fears and meditating on who we are, the Book of Revelation as an ancient apocalyptic narrative, the connection between survival and being a decent human being, the importance of kindness and decency in survival, the symbolism of burying the dead in post-apocalyptic stories, the sublime and ridiculous nature of post-apocalyptic themes, and expressing hope and excitement for creative and community-building endeavors.
Corrected link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bW6EYmRX7wk&t=3s
Takeaways
Surviving in a post-apocalyptic world requires different skills and mindsets.
Playing the wrong game can prevent us from fully experiencing and enjoying the present moment.
Community is not free, but it is worth the investment of time and energy.
Games can teach us valuable lessons about life, including the importance of strategy and being present. Belonging in a community requires vulnerability and shared burdens.
Authentic community is built on sacrifice and investment.
Post-apocalyptic themes fascinate us because they reveal our fears and explore human nature.
Survival in post-apocalyptic stories often involves acts of kindness and decency.
Creative and community-building endeavors give us hope and excitement.
CALL TO ACTION
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Chat with us on Wavelength (iOS and MacOS and iPadOS only) https://wavelength.app/invite/AGSmNhIYS5B#ABhy7aXOO04TO6HTS4lelw--) -
In this episode, Daniel and Kevin continue their exploration of the Enneagram and its connection to board games. They discuss the unique personalities of each Enneagram type and suggest games that may appeal to each type. The goal is to understanding and respecting others' differences, as well as understand ourselves. They reflect on the background of the Enneagram, its limitations, applying the Golden Rule to the Enneagram, the Enneagram types 5-8, and some game recommendations for each type!
Topics Explored
party games and fun recommendations
the value of embracing failure and learning from it
player elimination games for assertive personalities
bluffing games for challengers
understanding and meeting others' gaming preferences
choosing games based on personality types, seasons of life and gaming preferences.
Takeaways
The Enneagram can provide insights into our motivations, fears, and values.
Understanding and respecting others' differences is essential for healthy relationships.
Different Enneagram types may be drawn to different types of board games.
Negotiation games may appeal to Enneagram type 6, the Loyalist.
Party games and light-hearted games may appeal to Enneagram type 7, the Enthusiast. Party games are a great recommendation for social gatherings.
Embracing failure in games can help us learn and grow.
Player elimination games can be enjoyable for assertive personalities.
Bluffing games can be engaging for challengers.
Understanding and meeting others' gaming preferences can enhance the gaming experience.
Choosing games based on personality types can lead to more enjoyable gameplay.
Gaming preferences may change over different seasons of life.
Switch and Signal, and Cat in the Box are their favorite games from the recent Christmas holiday
Chapters
00:00 Unique Personalities and Enneagram Part 2
06:03 Background of Enneagram
13:10 Limitations of Enneagram
21:20 Enneagram Type 5: The Investigator
27:58 Enneagram Type 6: The Loyalist
33:36 Enneagram Type 7: The Enthusiast
34:43 Party Games and Fun Recommendations
36:37 Embracing Failure and Learning from It
39:09 Enneagram Type 8: Asserter/Challenger
47:08 Understanding and Meeting Others' Gaming Preferences
54:12 Seasons of Life and Gaming Preferences
56:30 Game Recommendations: Switch and Signal, Cat in the Box -
Holidays and games are great together – they provide an opportunity for social interaction and enjoyment. Board games can be a great addition to holiday celebrations, offering a break from work and a chance to connect with loved ones. Games can also serve as a reminder of the grace and unnecessary gifts in life.
00:00 Holidays and Games
02:12 Pax Unplugged Adventure
08:38 Games and Holidays
19:01 Theological Reasons for Games and Holidays
26:49 Game Recommendations for Holidays
boardgames #holidays #family #familygames #christmas #religion #spirituality #socializing #games #gamepicks
Some great games for the holidays include:
Architects of the West Kingdom
Azul
Charades
Codenames
Scout
Rummikub
Strike
Qwirkle
Skyjo
Six Nimmt!
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Intro to & History of EnneagramThe origins of the enneagram are arcane and unclear.Relation to 7 Deadly Sins, Sufi IslamGeorge Gurdjieff, Armenian spiritualist and teacher, 1865-1949Oscar Ichazo (Bolivian) and Claudio Naranjo (Chilean) in 1970s developed it. It came into American practice through Naranjo in CA, and Catholics there, including Father Robert Ochs.It is used in therapeutic and spiritual settings to discern who you are and who others areThe TypesPerfectionist: want it done right, highly moral, avoids blameHelper: wants to be loved and needed, avoids own needsPerformer: wants success, gotta win, avoid failureRomantic: need to be extraordinary and understood, avoid being ordinaryInvestigator: independent, private, strives for knowledge, avoids help from othersLoyalist: committed and funny, they are worst case thinkers, fearful, desires security, avoid dangerEnthusiast: fun and happy, avoid painChallenger: be strong, confrontational, commanding, avoids weaknessPeacemaker: pleasant and accommodating, avoid conflictWhere Can People Take Enneagram Test? Lots of places online, but one starting place is here (http://yourenneagramcoach.com).CaveatsWe are not experts No system is perfect - this doesn’t define you.Our Own Enneagram Types & ImplicationsKevin is a 1 – a perfectionistDaniel is a 9 – a peacemakerBoard Game Mechanisms for Enneagram TypesK: type 1 perfectionist: are going to like high strategy and low luck games, like chess, A Feast for Odin, Azul, Brass Birmingham, and generally any kind of Euro. But you might should play games with more risk and zaniness such as Nemesis or Frostpunk.D:K: type 5 investigator: solo gamer, Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective, solo experience games like Mr. President; Endurance by Amabel HollandD:K: type 3 Performer: push your luck, dungeon crawler, risk mitigation (Nemesis; Gloomhaven; Quacks of Quedlinburg)Next episode: Gaming experiences for the holidays!CALL TO ACTIONSubscribe to our newsletter (https://buttondown.email/BoardGameFaith)Support us on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/boardgamefaith/)Interact with us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/boardgamefaith/)Discord us Discord (https://discord.gg/MRqDXEJZ)Chat with us on Wavelength (iOS and MacOS and iPadOS only) (https://wavelength.app/invite/AGSmNhIYS5B#ABhy7aXOO04TO6HTS4lelw--)
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How do Christian theology and play intersect? Moltmann's seminal book, A Theology of Play, explores this, and we discuss pages 25-36.
Christ Is More than a Remedy for Sin
Christ became a human being not just to be a remedy for sin, but to create a new reality or a re-creation of the world. This tells us something about the nature of God: abundance, joy, and newness.
“God's love goes beyond his mercy and beyond man's misery. So it reaches beyond the mere restoration of the sick to the healthy state of the new life” (26).
“Only those who are capable of joy can feel pain at their own and other people's suffering. [One] who can laugh can also weep. [One] who has hope is able to endure the world and to mourn" (31).
In faith we accept ourselves as we are and gain new confidence in ourselves because we have been trusted more than we deserve and ever thought possible." (32)
“Games always presuppose innocence” (31)
Life Is More than Work and Purpose
The final purpose of history is liberation from the tyranny of needing to have a purpose.
"Life which is made meaningful by purposes and goals must find the vision of heaven terrible, since that vision only invites infinite and purposeless boredom. Christian eschatology [ideas about the end times] has never thought of the end of history as a kind of retirement or payday …" (34)
CALL TO ACTION
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Introduction
Shem Phillips is a board game designer from New Zealand. He founded Garphill Games in 2009 and is known for his medium to medium-heavy Euros such as the medieval trilogies (North Sea, West Kingdom, South Tigris) and Ancient Anthology series. He often works with S. J. (Sam) Macdonald.
The use of trilogies in game design
In your sermon online (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXUfbhP20Iw&t=1258s), you mention how game testing is like prayer: “look for feelings not suggestions.”
How do you relate today to the loss of your father?
In Ezra & Nehemiah, you explore your first explicitly Biblical theme. What went into the decision to design a Bible-themed game? Why Ezra and Nehemiah?
You mention a kind of “leap of faith” moment for yourself when you decide to go into board gaming. It was so encouraging. Would advice or encouragement would you have for any listeners who are maybe facing their kind of “leap of faith” moment?
the place of music and lyrics
You think about life and faith a lot through lyrics (you’re in church band, and you describe yourself as a “lyrics nerd”). What are some bands or artists that you think especially excel at good lyrics?
The facing of personal tragedies
How did religion help you grieve the loss of your dad?
CALL TO ACTION
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Chat with us on Wavelength (iOS and MacOS and iPadOS only) (https://wavelength.app/invite/AGSmNhIYS5B#ABhy7aXOO04TO6HTS4lelw--) - Show more
