SUNGAI CHOH (33) : Once Upon A Time | Force Of Habit

Force Of Habit 

(The Nature Of Boys To Play Rough Games)

Force Of Nature

Play Outdoor

Nature Boys

Local Touch

 

 

 

 

Season Schedule

Probably it was from force of habit when boys liked to play outdoor. Of course  the village was our playground with more than 5 kids gathered together. So it was the nature of the boys to play rough games together, especially challenging their skills. Every game actually had its local touch, as well as touch of fun. Sometimes we got too excited when playing. However there was no clock to limit our play, unless fatigue or hunger was the referee to stop the game. By then, we never ever felt bored. We continued to play all along, until the end of its season.  Then unofficially the game had reached its end. So another game would take over, according to unwritten season schedule.

 

Older Generation

Poor Grandparents

A Special Game

An Empty Brain

Natural Desire

 

During the old days, so many traditional games were played by the older generations, especially in the late fifties and early sixties. This was how their poor grandparents spent their joyful childhood days with these games. Yet, sometimes it's an insult, “silek nian” when people called you “kaki bangku” if you could not play sepak raga or football. This was  a special game for boys at that time. So you could at least kick whatever. Similarly you would be called an empty brain if you were not good at counting in konda-kondi or batu seremban game.  However you did not have to be an expert player or a versatile player. The reason to play was to enjoy the game, while fulfilling  the natural desire as children. Winning the game  would also be rewarding. You would be called the champ of the village.

 

Physical Fitness

Basic Rules

A Normal Player

A Master Of Non

"Kera Sumbang"

However, children's games are the medium to bridge relationships, as well as to enhance physical fitness and mind. So no need to play desperately, till the end. We just enjoyed the fun. Yet in any children game it was important to know the basic  rules. That’s why all boys needed to know how to play. Though every game had its technique, sometimes we just overruled. We did not care,  as long as we enjoyed the game. So was I , just a normal player. I could play any games but a master of non. So if you did not play, at least you could support your friends or simply clapped your hands. Never ever be a "kera sumbang", otherwise you were alone in the crowd. Anyway playing with our peers was a sweet memory and invaluable experience that no money could buy.