Grandmaster COVID-19

A former student of mine once asked, "What's it like to play against a grandmaster?"

I replied, "Imagine you're in a dark alley with someone who's trying to kill you.  And all you want to do is get out of that dark alley alive."

That's how I feel about the COVID-19 virus.  Literally, not figuratively.

It reminds me of the time I drew a game against a grandmaster on the stage at a tournament.

When I handed in my score sheet, the tournament director was incredulous.

TD: "You didn't get a draw against the grandmaster, did you?"

Me: "Yes, I did."

TD: "How did you manage to do that?"

Me: "I was too scared to lose."

There's nothing wrong with being afraid, as long as you keep it within reason.

Just don't let your fear get the upper hand.