Perpetual Break

Golf, for me, is more than just a game-it’s an obsession. If you’re into it like I am, it’s not unusual to wake up in the middle of the night thinking about whatever swing issue you’re trying to fix. Want to escape a problem that’s been weighing on your mind? Just replace it with another challenge: trying to exert control over a little white ball!

Occasionally, I manage to get away from work early enough to play nine holes-walking, of course. Those two hours are total immersion in a game that never ceases to mystify me. I always enjoy having a playing partner, whether it’s someone I know or a complete stranger. My wife used to ask what we talked about during the round. The answer? Nothing but distance, club selection, trouble spots on each hole, and the courses we’ve played.

When the topic of courses comes up, it opens a Pandora’s box for me. I’ve been fortunate enough to play many of the iconic courses in Scotland, Ireland, and here in the States-a privilege that always sparks great stories and fond memories.

They say golf is a microcosm of life, and if you want to see how people really are, play golf with them. Golf is challenging enough on its own, but add in someone you’ve never played with before, and the inner demons start whispering, worrying about what they’ll think when you shank the ball off the first tee. At my age-and having played longer than many of my playing partners have been alive-I’ve reached a point where I can simply enjoy the game and have a good time with whoever I’m paired with.

Nine holes is the perfect way to end the workday-especially if you played halfway decently. It makes that post-round beer or drink taste that much better.

Cheers!