I've said it before and I'll say it again - golf is a great game.
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And when I say golf, I'm referring to whatever pastime, pursuit or recreation you prefer that consistently and fundamentally does your head in so much you routinely return to it thinking you might improve.
And I describe that as 'great' because any other way might come across a bit - I don't know - negative.
Which would be unfortunate, because even though that's what you're aiming for when playing golf, "below par" is not necessarily how you want to describe the overall experience.
Unless you actually shoot below par.
Then it's the greatest game ever.
But rarely does that happen.
And that's what makes it greater.
Symbolic of struggle.
Not only with the great game, but with oneself.
And one's inability to play the great game as effectively as one would like.
Connecting you to wider perspectives on life, down there in the trenches, amid the blood, sweat and penalty drops..
Contemplating the cauldron, where you may well be the greatest handicap to your own success, and where satisfaction is nearly always a fairway from guaranteed.
Unless you keep hacking away.
But still you venture from the comfort of the armchair, into the arena, and slash your way slowly towards the 19th via the tree, and shrubs, of life.
Savouring highs and lows, often at the same time, depending on how far into the bush you hit your last shot.
Which in turn brings you closer to your self, and your clubs, and how you may need to get a new set.
That shoot straighter.
It's all about game management, they say.
And if that gets out of hand, it's all about maintaining a positive outlook.
And if that gets out of hand it's all about internalising the mantra "some of my worst experiences have been my best".
Because they may well be your only experiences that particular round.
It's intense, the amount of conflicting voices that compete in a golfers' head as you ride the rollercoaster.
"You're doomed." "You've got this." "You've got another ball in the bag."
It pays to not get too attached to any particular viewpoint, or ball.
Just the idea that you might eventually hit it sweet. Despite lack of evidence thus far.
And each time you send a ball into oblivion, you've got to be able reboot that belief that things will get better, sooner or later.
And in that regard, one is reminded of Winston Churchill's famous words.
"Success consists of going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm."
One is also reminded of Churchill's vow to fight them on the beaches - and in the bunkers and around the water traps.
He also mentioned something about never surrendering, but that may be optional, depending on how defeated you feel.
Until next time someone suggests a round, and you find yourself being drawn back in, afraid.
Sorry, I meant, being drawn back into the fray. Aiming low with hope sky high.
Golf's a great game like that.
