Bella’s Chessboard Wisdom

Bella’s Chessboard Wisdom

This morning, as I walked in the cool air of a new day, I found myself replaying a conversation I had with Bella Love last night. She began sharing wisdom with me about controlling the path before us, and how everything will work out as it’s meant to.

Her words struck me deeply. She compared life to a chessboard—how, when you start trying to manipulate and control every move, you miss the bigger picture. You forget that there are many pieces on the board, and not all of them are in your control. There are opponents, obstacles, and unexpected moves. No one can control everything.

Her analogy reminded me of lessons from years ago, when she was younger and I taught her about staying centered and rooted in what truly matters—your own piece of the board. The things you can control: my attitude, my effort, the way I treat others, and my gratitude. Those are mine to hold onto. But the things outside of me—the attitudes of others, their honesty or dishonesty, their effort or lack thereof—those are like oil in the hand. Try to hold onto them, and they slip away, leaving frustration behind.

Bella told me she knows it may not always look like she’s doing much, but she’s learning to focus on what she can control. And hearing that from a 16-year-old daughter, who has absorbed and now models wisdom in her own life, filled me with pride. She’s coaching herself now. She’s shaping her mindset and her character in ways that will last.

For me, her words were both humbling and encouraging. They reminded me that peace doesn’t come from controlling the uncontrollable—it comes from letting go, and faithfully tending to what I can influence. And as trials and tribulations come, I hold onto the truth that they produce patience and steadfastness. Those virtues shape character. And character builds hope.

So this morning, I am grateful. Grateful for a daughter who speaks wisdom back to me. Grateful for the reminder that hope is alive, even when life feels uncertain. Grateful that everything is going to work out just fine.