Solid, plainly stated wisdom from our chess team captain holds as well for international conflict: play the position on the board. Find the best move. If you lose the current game, you can set up the pieces and play again. Many players have won when they thought they might lose, if they just find the best move at each turn. You cannot let difficult situations make you discouraged, reckless, or over-cautious. Counter your opponent’s initiatives; develop initiatives of your own. Never give up, until you have a clear outcome. These lessons apply to successful competition in chess, and to successful competition in war.

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