Chess in Harvard Square

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  When I was 10 or 11 years old, my dad took me to Harvard Square one weekend. There were a lot of chess tables set up all over the park, and one of them had a sign reading, "Challenge the Chess Master: $5." At the time, I had recently learned to play chess and could beat most of my friends. Dad paid for my game against the master. 

  I don't remember much of that game, as it was very short. The chess master had to remind me to punch my timer clock several times, and he kept warning me not to make certain moves. As I walked away from the table, a friendlier guy approached us and offered to teach me some chess for free. 

  The man carried a portable chess kit that held the pieces inside the folding board. It looked like it had been used for a very long time, in a way that gave it character rather than wear. One of the pawns was missing, and the man used a wood chip in its place. 
  
  My dad thought this was interesting. He pointed to the wood chip and commented, "I see you didn't let the missing piece ruin such a nice chess set." The two of them exchanged a smile. I was still confused about advanced chess playing, but that comment stuck with me.

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