I feel like I am in the opening sequence of the chess game of life, after spending the last 24 years learning the rules to a level of proficiency that will not get me beaten too quickly. A rather predictable metaphor, I know, but it works to quite a large extent.
Once you are proficient in Chess, you realise that there is almost nothing new under the sun - and you start the game by using one of many options that has indeed been well explored in the past. An understanding of what each move you decide to make has meant in the millions of games that have been played before you ever approached the board will help you to be prepared for the problems that lie ahead.
So at the moment I am opening my game. I am mobilising my forces in preparation for the battle that lies ahead. Why I find this metaphor most interesting is that I feel I am approaching the middle game. I am almost ready to choose my attack, to find my angle on what and where to focus my attack for the best possible outcome. And further, I have begun to be pleased with the last few steps in my opening. There are a number of things taking place right now that are really exciting in terms of my future prospects - I'll reveal more if these things eventuate (just cross your fingers for me!).
For now, I just have to continue to examine my position on the board, and hope that nothing transpires to negatively influence that position before years end - which seems to be the crucial time for the entry into the middle game. I guess, if I want to run with the metaphor - which I do, I have to hope the opponent hasn't developed their pieces with some nice tricks up their sleeve.
Of course, much of this assumes that I am playing white - that I'm in control, that I begin with a slight tempo advantage. But when the board is invisible, and the opponent's pieces are obscured, I can't be sure of that. Perhaps I am black, and all my moves have simply been a reaction to what my opponent has been doing?
If that is the case, I hope I opened Sicilian. That'll make for an interesting match, and I'll be strong and attacking from the outset...
I've had my fun with this now. Sorry to be such a chess geek tonight. I think it might be the glasses...