Later that same evening, as the formal remarks gave way to conversation, a different kind of connection began to emerge. 

Once the formal introductions concluded, the atmosphere shifted into informal conversation, and this is where the evening became deeply personal and even more meaningful.

I spoke with Robert McLellan, not knowing at the time that he was one of the coauthors of the book Great Moves. Our conversation flowed naturally—thoughtful, sincere, rooted in shared ideas about education and the role of chess. Only later did I discover his authorship, which made the interaction feel even more special.

Shortly after, I crossed paths with Peter Wells, whose book I had been studying slowly, carefully moving the pieces on the board as I read. When I shared that with him, he responded with interest—a small moment, but one that affirmed the care and thoughtfulness he brings to his writing.

As the evening continued, Sunil offered guidance with generosity and clarity. He encouraged me to connect with specific people later that night. The reception was warm and receptive, even in the swirl of activity, and people promised to reach out after the holidays to continue the conversations. I was grateful I had brought business cards—something I had finished preparing just the day before. I had delayed getting business cards for more than a year — humbled by prior experiences and hesitant to get them unless it truly felt necessary. 

Throughout all these interactions, I was struck not by the “status” of the people I was meeting—though many are widely respected in the world of chess education—but by their kindness, humility, and genuine interest in supporting others. Every conversation felt meaningful, rooted in a shared belief in the transformative power of chess.

By the time the reception ended, I felt that I had been welcomed not simply into an event, but into a community of educators who care deeply about children, learning, and the environments that help young minds flourish.