I learned to play chess from my older brother as a boy. I wish now that I had stayed with it, but I stopped playing in college.

My online chess style is a combination of calculation and instinct. It's sloppy at times, especially when I overreach. I've never studied the game formally, but I know my game would benefit.

I'm glad to be able to rediscover the game against such talented opponents on chess.com. It has been a humbling experience at times, but a triumphant one at others. In many ways, chess is a metaphor for life.

phils_gambit