As a young child I was exposed to chess, but I was never taught how to play. Then one day my dad and older brother were playing and to my surprise they called me over to watch. Even though I had no idea what was going on I happily sat at the table and observed. Eventually my dad imposed his will, which he made public my his valiant “checkmate!” I was getting ready to leave the table when he asked did I want to play, On the inside I was giddy but I kept my cool and learned a skill that will be with me forever.
Chess isn’t something you are just good at it takes a lot of practice and that’s what I did. I practiced and practiced in hope of being compared equal to my brothers. i lost a lot by I kept progressing and one day I heard of a chess tournament at my school. I finally had an opportunity to see if my practice would amount to something. I waited patiently and finally the day had arrived.
I walked in the room, sat down at and my heart dropped. After a short conversation with one of my peers I knew I was out of my element. Everyone there had chess coaches and had been been playing for years. While I had just been taught the game a few months ago. I walked in hoping to win but I knew now that I had to be realistic. I scaled back and set a goal to at least beat one person.
After letting us socialize for a while the announcer came in and started the tournament. I found my way to my table and waited for my opponent to arrive. When he sat down I knew that I didn’t face an easy task. During our socializing time I had a conversation with him and he had a chess coach for a year now. I was in a daze and suddenly the match began. The clock was ticking and it was my move.
Every chess game is different and they are impossible to recreate. I couldn’t remember if I tried all I can recall is that I valiantly screamed checkmate after I too had imposed my will. Sadly there was no time to enjoy the moment I was quickly moved to the next stage and there I was destroyed in the next round. I went home with no trophies or ribbons but I was happy because no matter the results I knew I had accomplished my goal.
