A game that my cousins and I always loved to play whenever we would get bored was Pusoy Dos, also known as Filipino Poker. However, we never played for money. It was just a wholesome card game we played for fun, pride, and bragging rights. After many years of playing Pusoy Dos, I have come to believe that this game has been one of the major influences in my life in its development of my personal characteristics.

In the beginning of the game, the dealer distributes the cards to each player face down. Oftentimes, a person gets lucky and starts bragging about how good his or her cards look. However, I have learned that although a person may have good cards, it does not always guarantee that the person will win. This has taught me to remain humble in everything I do, such as my accomplishments, community service, and the acknowledgment of my mistakes. 

The objective of the game is to get rid of all the cards in your hand, and the first player to get rid of all the cards wins. When I first started playing, I always played it safe and would end up losing the game. However, after playing many games of Pusoy Dos, I have learned not to hold onto my cards forever and started taking strategic risks, pushing me out of my comfort zone and seizing opportunities. Just as I have taken the risks to audition for the Louisiana All-State Choir, run for Chorale Secretary and Tri-M Music Honor Society Vice President/Secretary, and take rigorous classes, I have opened myself up to new opportunities and experiences.

Many times in the game when I do not receive the strongest hand of cards, it feels as if the odds are stacked against me. Despite these odds, I have learned to not complain and give up because I know I still have a chance of winning if I play my cards right, just as Jack London said, “Life is not a matter of holding good cards, but sometimes, playing a poor hand well.” Struggling against the challenges of AP and honor classes, I motivated myself to work harder in each of my classes to maintain my grades, rather than to take the easier route and drop down to less challenging classes. From Pusoy Dos, I have gained perseverance which has helped me commit and continue striving towards my goals despite the difficulty, helping me excel in my academic studies and anything I endeavor.

Although Pusoy Dos may be a simple game, it has played a significant role in the development of my personal characteristics. It has shown me how virtuous humility is by being humble in victory and gracious in defeat and provided me with new opportunities and experiences by teaching me to take risks and to perceiver in everything I do. Taking the lessons I have gained from Pusoy Dos, I know am able to handle any challenge in this game called life.