As of this posting, I have refracted on nineteen different chess terms that, in my mind, can relate to TOPS. There are a few other terms to write about. However, it is time to start moving some pieces into place.
The first is the least powerful piece, a PAWN. Each player starts with eight, and they are located on the second RANK of the board for white, seventh for black. They can only move forward one space unless it is their first move, when they can move forward two SPACES. A PAWN can only capture another piece with a diagonal move. A PAWN controls the board well and is often the first piece a player moves.
Although a PAWN is considered a weak piece, it can be promoted to any other piece once it reaches the last RANK on the other side of the board.
Looking back over my time in TOPS, I can relate to a PAWN. I was just looking forward to going one step at a time. I did, in the beginning, try to move two SPACES; however, I quickly learned that slow and steady wins the race. Yes, I did get distracted at times and made a diagonal move, capturing what I thought was a good move. Some were, and some were not.
At times, just like a PAWN, I was weak and committed my share of a HOWLER. Often, I refracted on what my POSITION should be. With eight pieces, I had to SACRIFICE some trying to find that perfect COMBINATION.
Despite being a weak piece, the PAWN has a unique ADVANTAGE that mirrors my journey to a healthier lifestyle. By avoiding a CRAMPED SPACE, the goal is to get myself to the other side of the board for a promotion. For me, a promotion would be achieving any goal I have set. It can even be to reach KOPS status.
It is a good thing that in TOPS, we have more than eight chances. There is time to perfect our DEVELOPMENT and get that promotion.
Thank you, Rick! I love the 8 chances/pawns idea! I’ve been in TOPS a lo-o-o-ong time (around 40 years), and still haven’t reached the stage of KOPS. When I started I weighed 180 lbs. and wanted to get to 140. When I was an area captain here in NH, I went around to chapters and told my story of how now I’d pay good money to get back to 180!
I also tell them (as leader of our chapter), that now my goal is to be the healthiest me I can be. That, for me, involves losing weight, being active and enjoying my family and friends. It may be different for each of them but we’re here for each other, to work together as pawns on the board of life.
Love this analogy!! It really connects with me. I am learning how to play chess. Have not found anyone yet who wants to play with me. !!!
My 14 year old grandson’s are teaching me chess! What fun! It is a new year and the definition of a pawn is perfect for a new start!! For me anyway!😉. Happy New Year to everyone!🥳
Thanks Rick for continuing with this space and for archiving your work. I look forward to your weekly posts. All the best in 2026.