Chess

Chess was never a game for me. It was a class in school that we had to take until grade 8. Which was a good thing as it helped build our skills and gave us a break from class, and I would've enjoyed it if our teacher wasn't so damn scary.

I was in the same school since nursery and we started chess in grade 1. From then until now (now as in this year yes, years after I've graduated) we've had the same teacher.

He was a pudgy man with an irritable temper. Very smart, but also very scary. Everyone has gotten a scolding from him at least once throughout the years. He used to rank us based on how many games we won and our skill level. We had around 40 tables.

Initially I was in the upper half. I felt good about myself when I used to play since it meant I was with the "smarter" kids. But the years went on and I started descending.

It wasn't that we were all not smart. Maybe chess just wasn't for us. There was also the fear of our teacher. I know that impacted me a bit sometimes.

But at least I learnt the game. I think everyone should play chess for the challenge that it offers. I used to play it on my tablet when I was younger to understand it better. I felt the computer opponent more lenient.

I met a lot of people through chess. Once in the higher grades I reached I think table 7. It felt so nice to be challenged like that and actually think with strategy. When I got paired up with my classmates or people i was acquainted with, I got to know them in a another way.

There used to be a sheet that the teacher would put up outside the classroom where we would all gather to see who we got paired with at what table number. One time, I remember being paired up with my crush. I was so adamant on playing well to impress them. I don't really remember how it went but I think I lost. I lost my dignity also that day.

I haven't actually played chess in a long time. Maybe it's time for me to get back into it.