…I wanna be checkmated

The Ramones had a humble and unique embracing when it came to losses, that’s the only way we can learn and grow.  Other musicians taught us valuable lessons about chess.

Simon and Garfunkel were serious chess players…The Sound of Silence…need I explain more?

Cut It Out…Uncle Joey was not the subject of You Outta Know by Alanis…it was about her losing a student to another coach. “Are you thinking of me when you checkmate her”  “And I’m here, to remind you of chess you played when you went away”

My opponents will attest that I have a tendency to get into time pressure, I get into bouts of “analysis paralysis”.  I am certain band members from 21 Pilots also over analyze a position, as sing “I’ve been thinking too much, I’ve been thinking too much, I’ve been thinking too much”

Seven years running, but some hearing this for the first time.  A few players, coaches, and parents have admitted to me that they have sung this in the shower the morning before the State Scholastic.  Well, I do too.  Without further ado, I present to you John Denver with some final advice to you for this weekend.

[Chess] bags are packed and ready to go
And notation, and pencil, chess clock, ect.

I’m standin’ here outside your door, I hate to wake you up to say goodbye
Did you preregister?  Get some extra rest then.

But the dawn is breakin’ it’s early morn’   The taxi’s waitin’ he’s blowin’ his horn
Probably feels like being a cab driver at times, eh?  Just remind them who keeps a roof over their head. 

Already I’m so lonesome I could die
Chess is not a spectator sport for most people, many find time chatting with fellow parents and really getting to know one another.

So kiss me and smile for me, Tell me that you’ll wait for me
Flattered, but I don’t know all of you that well.  I won’t whisper sweet nothings into your ear.   Maybe, I will ever so softly squeeze your shoulder, but nothing more!

Hold me like you’ll never let me go
They sure grow up fast, don’t they?

Cause I’m leavin’ for a [chess thing]; Don’t know when I’ll be back again
Oh babe, I hate to go,
Congrats Seniors, and to all of you embarking on a new chapter in your lives. 

There’s so many times I’ve let you down; So many times I’ve played around
Countless games have been decided because of moves played too fast, will it happen to you?

I tell you now, they don’t mean a thing;  Every place I go, I’ll think of you
Every song I sing, I’ll sing for you; When I come back, I’ll bring your wedding ring
Your Scholastic Coordinator would much rather  accept a dark roast, no cream no sugar

Cause I’m leavin’ for a [chess thing];  Don’t know when I’ll be back again
Awards will take time to figure out Sunday, your patience will be rewarded!

Oh babe, I hate to go
See you all this weekend!  Good luck to all

Original date sent:  March 24 2017