I never met Daniel Naroditsky but it honestly feels like I did.
I watched his videos and streams for years, his calm voice explaining crazy positions like it was just simple logic. He made chess feel fun and alive, even when it got super complicated or frustrating sometimes.

What made Danya so special wasn’t just that he was an amazing player, it was how much he cared about sharing the game. He never talked down to anyone, he made you feel like you could understand it, like if you just tried a bit harder you’d get it too.

He didn’t try to be flashy or loud, he didn’t need to. He just had this quiet confidence and kindness that made people listen. Even when you blundered following along he’d somehow make you laugh about it instead of feeling bad.

It’s kinda crazy how someone you’ve never even met can have such a big impact. His videos helped so many of us through hard days, through times when life just felt heavy and you just needed something calm to hold onto. He reminded us that chess — and learning — could still be fun, peaceful and exciting all at once.

The chess world feels different without him now.
But I know he’s still here in a way, in every lesson he taught, every position he broke down and every person he inspired to love the game. Every time we take a second to think before moving or notice a small idea in a position, that’s him.

Thank you Daniel for teaching us,
for inspiring us,
for reminding us that brilliance and kindness can coexist — beautifully.

wheredidallmypieces_go