I started blogging at the time of my golf hero's descent. It was 2009 and my first post was about my sadness over his infidelity. Tiger Woods was the greatest golfer to hit the greens, and I had been privileged to even watch him twice at Torrey Pines. He had been my inspiration to get out there and learn the awkward sport. I had certainly put him on a sky high pedestal. But within a couple of days, the tragedy took its toll and he has never been quite the same, at least not on the golf course. His body is one that time has ravaged with injuries and wounds. He seems to be facing the sport he revolutionized as the "has been."
Saturday was one of those days that he showed his Achilles heel. Every golfer knows how difficult it is to get out of your head the negativity when your game goes bad. Each hole seems to reinforce the painful fact, no matter how much sweat and effort you put into your swing and putt. There is always hope that when Tiger shows up to play a tournament that he'll have his game back. Yet, usually by Sunday, the story ends with devastating disappointment once again.
When I heard that he would be playing Sunday in last position all by himself, I cringed. How sad and no doubt embarrassing, for it would seem that that alone would single you out as a complete loser. I don't think I have ever heard of any golfer having to do that in the past. So I thought he may withdraw to just save face. But he didn't, there he was with his Sunday red shirt playing at least a better round, still average by today's standards, but better than the day before. He had a gallery that shouted encouragement and gave applause, and I appreciated humbleness from him that perhaps I hadn't seen before. He seemed to graciously play the solo greens. . .
There but by the grace of God, I go too. . . The only difference between me and Tiger is that my life has not played out for millions to see or comment about. I have not always made wise choices and have had to live with consequences that still cause me concern. True, it's unfair to put people on pedestals because the reality is they are faulty human beings like me. Demonizing them for their wrongs and sins is not my business. Would I want that done to me?
Yes, I like a story of redemption, of the hero coming back to reign. So I do remain hopeful, always. But there I go again wanting to raise him up above all odds, probably above reality. Rather, I need to let this reflection cause me to practice kindness and humility as I complete my days. I need to keep hanging in there, even when no one sees or merits the work I do. Even when I fail miserably, I need to get back in the game and walk the greens, even if it's only me . . .
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