Скачать или смотреть Be Still: Wise Counsel

There are many wise words in the Book of Ecclesiastes and this week, I cover a few verses from Chapter 7 that can guide us through better behavior on and off the golf course.

The primary highlight to this week’s Be Still is character. Obviously we know the game of golf is a gentleman’s and gentle-ladies sport. It’s a game of honor and respect. Our character on the golf course should reflect these traditions of the game. I know the game is evolving, but it’s not a football game out there. There is an etiquette to playing the game of golf as well as spectating. Either way, a competitor would be all the wiser if he/she can be slow to anger and remember we all represent someone.

Anger makes us do foolish things. Not to mention, we look like utter fools throwing a tantrum like a child. That kind of behavior is for children who don’t know better and have yet to learn self-discipline. Imagine if someone was videoing you throwing a tantrum on the golf course, or in general. It would be one of two things, embarrassing or hilarious, if not both. Getting angry and throwing clubs or cussing like an idiot doesn’t impress anyone and it doesn’t make anyone believe you’re a better player than you actually are. In fact, it does the opposite. It tells your competitors that you aren’t that good and you lack the mental faculties to control your skills and emotions. All of which gives a distinct advantage to your opponent.

Lastly, carefully consider your behavior in terms of those you represent. Represent? Yes! We all represent someone many other people, especially those in competition. Each time I play golf I represent myself, my family, my parents, my kids, my family name, my place of employment, my school or past school, my sponsors, and more importantly, The Lord. If I’m acting like a fool on the golf course or in life, imagine how negatively others will look upon me and those associated with me. Guilty by association. Instead by remembering this and being of strong character, you’ll reap many positive benefits as well as those associated with you. The things we do in golf, other sports, or at work will all fade away. One day enough time will pass and all will be forgotten. But people won’t forget what kind of person you were. They will remember your character. So make each day count and set a positive example for the future ahead.