Can you define the word "Game"?..yes define "game"?!

wikipedia has many definitions of games.....nothing definitive!...
here is an extract from wikipedia :
"A game is a structured activity, usually undertaken for enjoyment and sometimes used as an educational tool. Games are distinct from work, which is usually carried out for remuneration, and from art, which is more concerned with the expression of ideas. However, the distinction is not clear-cut, and many games are also considered to be work (such as professional players of spectator sports/games) or art (such as jigsaw puzzles or games involving an artistic layout such as Mahjong solitaire, or some video games)."  [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Game]

This struck me as odd. We use the word "game", "games" without giving much thought.

We use "game" in so many different contexts, each conveying a different meaning.  But more often than not, the word "game" is used to indicate a contest.

To a child the word "game" indicates fun, enjoyment, joyful activity for all players [which leads to relaxation, both physical & mental].  This meaning was brought sharply into focus by my 5 year old daughter, Natassia, when on her request, we both played a game of football in our backyard.

Well, she scored the 1st goal (u don't believe this do you?...u think I let her!...year ur right)....Score Natassia 1 - Dad 0;
then after a few more minutes of play, with me putting on a spirited defence....she goes to score a "own goal"....deliberately!

I asked her, Why?....

Her response: 

• We are playing a game, aren't we Dad?
• We both have to have fun, enjoy the game? [read moment]
•  Now we are both equal, you have a point too.
•  and the game ended.
  

We as adults associate "games" with a 'Winner Takes All' mindset...its all about "winning" or "losing", being competitive, single minded, focussed....its never about the fun, the joyful activity, the moment!

Over to you, let me know your thoughts....I am off to play another game!!