What is chess to you?

A mere hobby? A board game, to fill time? A mission? Or a status symbol?

I don’t know about you, but at times I do wonder why people are on this site at all. For me it is quite simple, as a kid I saw my father play chess with my elder brothers and since then I had the desire to play. After winning a lot, people gave me the thought I might be good. Then again after 20 years I started to understand that it is my ceiling. Defeating most after trying enough but never being a master.

Still, I try to improve my game.

Or better said, I learn another trick, another perspective and at times a completely different approach to the game of kings….

Just for fun!

The only valid reason to play chess at all, is actually to enjoy thinking about the moves. Probably even for professionals, without it the only reason to do chess would be a twisted mindset. Like these people who think having a 2000 next to your name means a thing, a thing important enough to cheat for. I have never understood people who cheat at a thing which is for fun, mind you: I do understand cheating for a monetary profit. Even if it should be punished, the act has logic. For anyone else it is a sure indication for a mental problem.

Online chess is a community where we can meet all, if you are like me; meaning that you play for the fun of the puzzle, the competition of the mind, to have contact with like minded people, to have some fun with ordinary people, then …only then… our club might be something for you. Do have a look at The Golden Phoenix (link) and apply if you like.

Meanwhile I keep pondering,

What is chess to you?