In Pursuit of Wisdom

The news that American Grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky passed away yesterday, October 19th, has left the global chess community in stunned silence. At just 29, Danya, as he was affectionately known, was a brilliant competitor, a prodigious talent, and a phenomenal educator whose infectious enthusiasm made chess accessible and captivating for countless people. His passing leaves a profound void. While the world knew Danya for his incredible achievements—a grandmaster by 18, a U12 World Champion, and a five-time U.S. Championship competitor—my memories of him are more personal, rooted in the Bay Area chess scene. It felt like he was a constant presence at the Mechanics' Institute Chess Club, often immersed in a game, or just as frequently, holding court during one of his insightful lectures. He had a way of breaking down complex ideas into digestible, engaging lessons, making even the most intricate positions seem approachable. His passion for teaching was palpable, and I, like many ot...

  I came across an interesting way to look at our daily conversations. Almost everything we say falls into one of three kinds of statements: Positive - “The weather is beautiful today.” Affirms something desirable or true. Negative - “The weather is terrible today.” Denies or criticizes something. Neutral - “The weather is 75°F today.” States a fact without emotion or judgment. It made me wonder — what percentage of your speech do you think falls under each of these categories? For me, I’ve noticed I naturally try to reduce negative statements and increase positive ones, though honestly, most of what I say is neutral (just facts, updates, or simple observations). It will be difficult to put some %, but let's give it a try anyway. I think 5% negative, 20% positive and 75% neutral. Curious to hear your self-estimates — how do your conversations break down between positive, negative, and neutral?

I spent some time creating this detailed Categorization of Supporters and Critics of the Awami League based on my observations and experience, and now I'm genuinely curious about where my diversified friends here land! I'll start: I put myself squarely in Category 9—those who dislike Awami League immensely but don't want to Ban Awami League as a Political Party. Which category number (1 through 10 as per the diagram) do you feel you belong to? Did I miss any major categories of thought or action? What other significant groups of supporters or critics exist that this diagram doesn't capture? Let's keep the discussion open-minded and respectful!

A few months ago, I went to visit my family in Dhaka, Bangladesh before joining my new job at Checkr in San Francisco. On this particular trip, my brother, Rasheduzzaman, the visionary CEO of OPAR Cemetery, took several of us on a journey to a serene location in Gazipur. This wasn't just a casual outing; it was an introduction to the very ground where a profound vision is taking shape—a vision born from personal heartache and a deep-seated desire to serve the community. My father Mohammad Shamsuzzaman has been working with him for a long time before they could buy the land there last December. I am truly honored and happy to share this initiative, which stands as a powerful blend of thoughtful business and heartfelt social responsibility. The Genesis: A Solution Born from Pain The idea for OPAR Cemetery wasn't conceived in a boardroom; it emerged from a deeply personal and challenging experience. Three and half years ago, when my father-in-law passed away in Dhaka, it was an in...

What a year 2024 turned out to be! Filled with exciting travels, major family milestones, my first layoff in career and even unexpected political developments back in Bangladesh, this year has truly kept me on my toes. As December rolled in, my wife Shusmita, our son Ahyan, and our daughter Suhaila joined me in a final adventure to close out the year in Los Cabos, Mexico. It was the perfect finishing touch to an eventful twelve months. A Year of Travel, Celebrations, and Challenges Guys’ Trip to Las Vegas (September) In September, I took a “guys only” trip with some friends to Las Vegas. We laughed nonstop, enjoyed some shows, and simply took a break from the daily grind. Vegas never disappoints when it comes to letting loose! Elk Meadow Cabins at Orick, CA Later in the year, eight families/friends teamed up for a serene getaway to Elk Meadow Cabins in Orick, California. Nestled among giant redwoods and scenic trails, it gave us the perfect blend of nature and bonding time. Political S...

As an American, I’m increasingly troubled by our country’s role in Middle Eastern foreign policy. Despite their domestic differences, both major political parties continue to follow a strategy of military intervention, regime change, and arms deals that destabilize regions and cost countless lives. Watching these policies unfold year after year, it’s difficult not to feel disillusioned. Once again, we’re faced with candidates from the Democratic and Republican parties, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump , neither of whom promises a meaningful shift away from this destructive path. Both candidates represent parties with a long history of interventionist policies that have harmed innocent lives abroad and left our veterans struggling with trauma here at home. I recognize that change won’t come overnight. It will take time for a third party to rise as a real alternative to the Democrats and Republicans. But we have to start somewhere—just as others have throughout history. I’ve often heard t...