If you have never learned to play chess, you should. I began learning this past week and it is not only a very fun and challenging game but I am learning some life lessons as well. In the game of chess you are not to touch any of your pieces unless you are ready to move them. If you touch one, you have to move that one, period. You can't go back and forth indecisively. You are forced to not only think of your current and next move, but several to follow as well as your opponent's next several moves. Often you must consider making strategically preemptive defensive moves based on anticipation of your opponent's upcoming moves. This is teaching me how to consider all my options rather than just making a move based on my gut feeling or my emotions. I know, I am an adult, I should have already gotten this down, right? Well, I often make decisions too quickly and the chess rule of not being able to touch any of my pieces without being forced to move it is really hitting home. Don't make a decision until you are absolutely sure that is the best move and consider all outside influences and considerations; -short-term and long-term repercussions, etc. Learn to play chess!
By: Ann Lindholm, Liberty Cross Ranch