A Fear of Operation

Ah, the game of Operation—a classic that brings back memories of childhood and innocent curiosity. It's funny how sometimes a simple prank or misunderstanding can shape our perceptions for a surprisingly long time.

I remember vividly how my next-door neighbor got the game of Operation as a gift when we were kids. At that point, my knowledge of the game was limited to what I'd seen in the commercials. So naturally, when she excitedly invited me over to play with it, I was eager to give it a try.

However, little did I know that she had a mischievous plan up her sleeve. As she practiced her delicate moves with the game's tweezers, she added a dramatic twist—pretending that every time she touched the sides, it gave her a startling electric shock. My eyes widened in sheer terror, and I refused to partake in the game. Looking back, her laughter as I hurriedly ran back home probably should have tipped me off that it was all a prank. But then again, I've always been the trusting type.

For over a year, I held onto this fear, steadfastly refusing to play Operation. It wasn't until my mother convinced me, with reassuring words, that I wouldn't actually receive an electric shock, that I cautiously decided to give it a shot. The first time that buzzer went off, I nearly leaped out of my skin. But to my immense relief, there was no shock—only a harmless buzz.

In hindsight, I can't help but be impressed by my neighbor's commitment to keeping the joke going for so long. It was a testament to her dedication to a bit of harmless fun.

Today, I've not only overcome my Operation-related fears but have also developed a genuine fondness for the game. In fact, I wholeheartedly encourage everyone to play it as often as possible. It's a reminder that even childhood pranks and misunderstandings can evolve into cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for the simple joys of life.

Operation [@] Amazon