Empty Canvas

So Paul doesnt show up for chess anymore. It might be because I destroyed him two games in a row a couple weeks ago. For a guy trying to resurect a chess club to get beaten repeatedly by the only guy who shows up would be disheartening. Its not that he was a bad player. He took second at the last uwm tournement and studies regularly. But honestly like most people he lacks the ability to free his mind on the board. Im no genious, hell I dont even know how to spell it. That being said you have to be able to follow your feelings, your gut, how your mind feels that day, maybe old school, maybe artistic, maybe wild, when you can do that freely your game improves exponentially. Much like trying to play with stress or troubles on your mind. It crushes your own game. You become your own opponent. When life is good and free it all changes and the game is more like an empty canvas.