I used to believe that golf was not a sport like tennis, soccer, basketball, baseball etc. This past week I quickly learned that this is a myth. My first lesson and I am already struggling to make contact with the ball. OK – so I was quite a tennis player back in the day. My ground strokes were always consistent and there is some overlap with golf. I’ve got some things going for me. Golf may look easy, but it is deceiving to the innocent bystander!
I used to pass by golf courses and relish the gorgeous greens, the golfers who seemed to be standing around, huddling over their ball, concentrating intently and praying they’d make the shot. These golfers appeared to belong to a mysterious polo shirt and bermuda short clad cult, who look ever so cool and stylish in their clothes and gear. I envied the fact that they seemed to have all of this extra time on their hands, to play 18 holes, and get to hang out with a bunch of friends or golfing pals for a day.
Now I long to be on the course, to hear the birds above and savor the rolling greens, while practicing putting with the focus of a monk. Golf is mentally challenging. One needs the patience of a saint, the non-attachment and non-judgement of a Buddhist, the flexibility and forgiveness of a loving parent, and the humility of a good leader. I hope to keep developing all of these fine qualities as I perfect my golf game. At this stage in my life I am ready. I don’t care how long it takes me to learn. I am now a part of this mystical and zen sport!
