In a world where conflict dominates our attention, I’m surprised chess (THE game of strategic conflict) isn’t more widely embraced. With so much global tension in modern day headlines, resulting in a greater need for societal rationality, patience, and emotional resilience, I would expect chess to be more popular. Given how effectively the game helps sharpen strategic thinking and cognitive skills, you would think the game would occupy a more prominent place in our social life.
I recognize the game is still very much relevant, however, why is it so difficult to find human partners to play with? I consider myself a very socially extraverted gal. I am acquainted with many people from all walks of life, and yet, the majority of people do not play chess. Struggling to find a real partner to play with instead of a computer, prompted me to join our school’s very own chess club. The club meets every Tuesday from 2-4pm led by the wonderful math professor Kyriakos Kypriotakis. Unfortunately, there are only three of us in the club, so we must take turns playing against each other. However, I’d rather wait my turn than play against a robot!
Truthfully, I only began learning how to play the game three months ago. During a late-night ice cream run to Oberweis with my best friends from out of town, I watched as they messed around with the chess pieces on the tables. In case anyone is unaware, Oberweis ice cream shops have chess boards painted onto their tables. Also provided is the standard set of thirty-two chess pieces. As it turns out, my friends actually know how to play, and it was not long before my curiosity consumed me, and I flooded them with questions about the game. We spent nearly three hours at Oberweis playing chess.
There are many things to love about this board game. For one, it’s a timeless hobby (or sport if you want to get technical), one that can be played for a lifetime and is fairly accessible. You can find chess tables at public parks, local libraries, and even ice cream shops. Chess satisfies my craving for shared human connection while improving my attention span, sportsmanship, and poker face! For most, chess might just be a game of strategic and calculated maneuver with an intense competitive nature. For me, chess is an opportunity to grow as an individual, enhance my cognitive agility, practice mindfulness, and instill emotional resilience.
