Chapter 52: Impending Destiny

I wonder... is this 'ultimate reality' we see before us merely the converging of what we collectively percieve, with different aspects and opinions clashing at the same time. If that is so, is true harmony, or a 'perfect, complete world' one whereby we eventually believe in the same objectives together, in order to eliminate the chaos.

And, if the earth really does die, do we really need to care about the destination, or the end state of the earth? After all... there is nothing we can truly do. Maybe rather than panicking, a better move would be to think about the journey instead, and live life as per normal, or how we want it to be. Is it worth spending time counting down to inevitable death?

Speaking of impending destiny, I just realised that I have been winning most of the chess games I played recently at the international chess club (Wednesday evening when I am free, air-con and 2 hours, why do you think I chose this CCA?).

And through playing and thinking back, I guess I did learn some things from this old game of mysterious origins and deep history.

It reminds me of concepts in war. For instance, war is a terrible ordeal. Every side involved are bound to lose at least something, and in the end, only one will earn victory. But then, what is left of your comrades and people? All gone, exchanged for the lives of the enemies. All soldiers really were to the player are nothing more than trinkets and tokens for checkmate.

Losses are inevitable, unless the opposition is really incompetent and throws away lives unknowingly. Therefore, most of the time, we focus on minmizing our losses, and making the enemy suffer heavier ones.

But checkmate, or absolute victory, really is a great feeling. It is as if everything you did came down to this final moment, and you can taste the fear in the air, and impending destiny and victory ahead. It is as though, no matter what happens next, you have won.

This game is not as unpopular or boring as you think. In fact, if you like, you can try it yourself. The more you learn about true tactics and strategies, you will come to appreciate the game. The history and origins are very interesting too. Do not just look on the surface. After all, how do you know that it is boring, if you have never tried to actually enjoy the game.

Until then.