Prison Journalism: Suppose life were chess

Prison Journalism: Suppose life were chessWesley Leong was incarcerated at the age of 15 in 1996 at Pollsmoor Prison. He is currently part of Restore's research and reintegration project.

by Wesley Leong

09-02-2024 09:45

in Prison Journalism

Prison

Image by Pexels

Chess is widely recognized as a premier game, though it is not the oldest. Most of us have encountered a chess game at least once in our lives. Some may be adept at playing chess, while others strive to improve in a competitive manner.

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My Understanding of Chess There are different pieces, each with a specific role. Some move in unique ways, while others are sacrificed, casualties of war, let's say. The objective is to checkmate the king; achieving this means you have won the game decisively.

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Comparing Life to Chess If you have mastered chess and understood how it works, it is quite straightforward. Every move, whether offensive or defensive, has consequences. It's essential to understand this as a question and then an answer; the process is simple, requiring no overthinking but rather a mental overview of what is happening by examining your opponent's moves. Just like in life, every decision has either a negative or positive outcome with obvious consequences.

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Taking a Step Back for a Closer Look Each of us faces the daily challenge of a busy life, always at risk or lagging behind. Making decisions is difficult as any choice can lead to uncertain outcomes. However, if we slow down and prioritize our choices and decision-making, we can achieve more meaningful results or resolutions in regards to our outcomes.

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Taking Chances and Making Sacrifices In chess, you need to be willing to take chances and even allow some pieces to be sacrificed for you to emerge victorious. Life is similar; by making calculated, strategic decisions, you can overcome life's challenges.

An Example from Chess When I Was Inexperienced This was challenging as the rules and gameplay slightly differ. Being part of a hierarchy, you are akin to a piece that moves back and forth, doing all the grunt work, and you are at the forefront when any group faces challenges. The higher your rank, the greater your responsibility, not power; it is your thinking and sound judgment that allow you to be the most influential. Every single move, action, or mistake has consequences. So, plan and think carefully before making any decisions.

For Me, I Believe Discipline Equals Freedom Financial discipline leads to financial freedom and can be applied in everything you do in your life. Without discipline, you will never advance. Apply this in your actions and self-discipline, and you will see how simple it is to be free of worries.

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DISCLAIMER: Submission published as received

Should you wish to assist in the rehabilitation of former inmates and help put money into the pockets of those who have struggled to earn a living during and after incarceration, click HERE

RESTORE is an NGO based in Cape Town, South Africa, providing inmates at Pollsmoor Prison with restorative justice opportunities.

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