Friend or foe – It's chess

Dear Blog Diary,

There’s a bar in Northside Cincinnati called Chameleon. They have Dr. Brown’s cream soda and a wonderful bartender named Maggie. A gracious host to everyone. Tip her well if you go.

Next to Chameleon is a hole in the wall with tall windows where every Wednesday you will see men playing chess. Most look homeless (don’t sleep! Bust you up), old white dudes who look like members of the Doobie Brothers, and then about 3 young guys who have long hair and five panel hats (fuck…that’s me).

I figured, let’s play.

It was a beautiful moment for me. I was nervous! I felt silly. We all get apprehensive but it’s a rare thing to remember and realize how much you’ve grown as a person, in real time. Confidence derived from evidence, not arrogance.

I walked in. Is there a fee? Do I need my own board? Am I about to get smoked and my little ego gets laughed out the front door?! The guy who runs the joint is called Rob. I find him and ask "what do I do?" He responds:

“We’re here to play chess.” 

I think my parents gave me my chess board for my 8th birthday? Who knows. It's not small, has burnt lines in the wood. It's beautiful. As I was moving things in my apartment to clean my carpets, I put my chess board directly by the front door. I was moved by the symbolism.

The word “host” is a derivative of the latin root “hostis” which ironically translates to “enemy.” This is also where we get words like "hostile." Whoever comes through my door is a guest and I must be a good host. However, being the last thing I see when I walk out the door, it inspires me to be my best and part of that is knowing that every person outside of that door is at least potentially Agent Smith in the Matrix, my enemy. Me vs the outside of that door. Fuck it.

Come. Welcome to my home, you are my guest, but if you are indeed my enemy, pawn to E5 is waiting.

I highly encourage you get out of your comfort zone. Go to places you've never been, alone. Be fearless in the satiation of your curiosity. Have fun. Be a gracious host in every interaction but be ready for your enemies to reveal themselves. And if you find yourself at Chameleon, tip Maggie well. Amazing host.

Best,

E

#ARTiculate