2319: Hard-stuck

Hey Friends,

Back to Class, Back to Reflection

This week marked the end of the holiday break and the return to my usual routine: classes, work, and the rhythm of campus life. It’s always an adjustment, but I’ve been easing back into it. This semester, I’m taking a public health class with one of my good friends, Ahmad. It’s an in-person class—something we intentionally chose in a world full of virtual learning. Since this is our final semester, we wanted to immerse ourselves in the university experience as much as possible.

On the first day of class, our professor walked in, dimmed the lights, and handed out what I assumed was the syllabus. To our surprise, it was an icebreaker sheet filled with thought-provoking questions—not the typical "favorite color" or "hometown," but deeper, reflective prompts. I was fully engaged until I hit one question that stumped me:

"What was your favorite childhood toy?"

At first glance, I didn’t think it would be difficult, but as I sat there, I couldn’t come up with an answer. What even counts as a toy? My mind raced. Toy cars? Fidget spinners? None of it clicked. Time was running out, and I was still blank. Eventually, I jotted down “fidget spinner” just to have an answer.

When it was my turn to share, I admitted my struggle. I explained that, as a kid, I didn’t think of my favorite pastime—playing video games—as a “toy.” To me, toys were things you could toss around or leave outside. Consoles? They were entertainment systems, complex and layered in ways toys never felt.

Reflecting on this now, I realize why it was so hard for me to simplify gaming into the category of a "toy." Gaming wasn’t just a source of fun—it had dimensions that shaped me in ways I hadn’t fully appreciated before.

First, gaming was (and still is) an incredible form of entertainment—an escape, a way to relax and immerse myself in new worlds.

Second, it fostered social connection. Back in the day, you’d gather at a friend’s house to play together, but now, the world is connected through platforms like Discord, PlayStation chat, and Xbox Live (though I’ve always been Team PlayStation). Gaming transcends borders and brings people together. It’s not just about playing a game—it’s about the conversations, the camaraderie, and the shared experiences.

Finally, gaming taught me to navigate complexity. Whether it’s strategizing in a game like Marvel Rivals or simulating experiences I might never have in real life—like racing in Formula 1—games offer a way to practice problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability. They’re a microcosm of real-world skills, packaged in immersive experiences.

This reflection made me realize why my PlayStation was so much more than a “toy.” It was a gateway to entertainment, connection, and learning. Calling it a toy feels like it diminishes the impact it’s had on my life.

Sometimes, it takes a simple icebreaker question to uncover the layers of something we’ve taken for granted. What’s your “favorite toy”—or, more importantly, what has shaped you in ways you didn’t expect?

Peace,

Zechariah Davis

Song of the week:

• "Ordinary People"
  • John Legend

Quote of the week:

• "This is such BS! All the training and sacrifice just flew out the window with one step that I've done millions of times! The frustration is unbearable. The anger is rage. Why the hell did this happen ?!? Makes no damn sense. Now I'm supposed to come back from this and be the same player Or better at 35?!? How in the world am I supposed to do that?? I have NO CLUE. Do I have the consistent will to overcome this thing? Maybe I should break out the rocking chair and reminisce on the career that was. Maybe this is how my book ends. Maybe Father Time has defeated me...Then again maybe not! It's 3:30am, my foot feels like dead weight, my head is spinning from the pain meds and I'm wide awake. Forgive my Venting but what's the purpose of social media if I won't bring it to you Real No Image?? Feels good to vent, let it out. To feel as if THIS is the WORST thing EVER! Because After ALL the venting, a real perspective sets in. There are far greater issues/challenges in the world then a torn achilles. Stop feeling sorry for yourself, find the silver lining and get to work with the same belief, same drive and same conviction as ever. One day, the beginning of a new career journey will commence. Today is NOT that day. "If you see me in a fight with a bear, pray for the bear". I've always loved that quote. Thats "mamba mentality" we don't quit, we don't cower, we don't run. We endure and conquer. I know it's a long post but I'm Facebook Venting LOL. Maybe now I can actually get some sleep and be excited for surgery tomorrow. First step of a new challenge. Guess I will be Coach Vino the rest of this season. I have faith in my teammates. They will come thru. Thank you for all your prayers and support. Much Love Always. Mamba Out"
  • Kobe Bryant

Scripture of the Week:

Looking to spread the word about the latest issue of '2319'? Simply copy this link and share it through text, social media, or email:

2319.ghost.io/2319-hard-stuck-2/