Good Question

[Downthestretch55]

Kev,
I like a good chess game. I have since I was a young man.
It's all about the "learning".
If you take the time to read this, you might find, as I have, that winning in chess involves planning. Even then, sometimes a loss happens.
Therein the best lesson.
Now that the British are about to pull their troops out, it seems to me that there are lessons about playing chess that need to be addressed.
This is from the Guardian, UK.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/Iraq/Story/0,,1957915,00.html

And, yes, I still "play" chess. Actually, I'm getting better at it. After a lifetime of enjoying the thrill, and defeating many that have no clue about the moves to make, I do get defeated on that board at times.
At least no blood is shed.
Sad to say, the "game" now being played isn't well planned, nor without blood.
In chess, the best lessons are in defeat.
I hope those that are "playing" admit theirs, and learn.