Comradery vs. Competition

As I ventured to Charleston for the Nationwide "Palmetto Pride" Qualifier, I felt very good about how my game was progressing. I really felt it was possible to meet my goal and make the event, or at least come close. Two days before the qualifier, I had the opportunity to play golf with some friends. Both days, I played well, especially to be on courses I had not yet played, from the back tees none the less.

However, something changes when you are out playing with your family and friends and when you are keeping a competitor's score walking down fairways with a caddy. Something just seems to happen to usually normal swings and easy shots. They all become much harder, at least you begin to think they are.

I am learning that the difference between playing with friends and in competition is only about 6 inches (the space between your ears). Don't give me credit for that one, I believe it was Bobby Jones who said it first. He must have experienced the same thing I have.

How does one get through it? Practice and experience. I believe the key is to make every round the same. Not to make each round competitive, but to make the same swing, I need to have the same thoughts and the same amount of pressure, or lack of it. Most of the time, pressure is put on ourselves. I am learning that pressure is all about how I acknowledge it and handle it. As I began my round Monday, I started out great. I was -1 through 5 holes, on track for my goal, which would have made the event. However, something happened, ever so quietly, sneaking up like a roaring lion (looking for someone to devour- had to throw that verse reference in from 1 Peter) and believe me it ate up my confidence and my score. Don't worry, it spit it back out after 18.

I am disappointed. I am glad I am, that means it hurts, that means I know I can do better and will strive to learn how to play in that setting and be successful. What is successful? Is it winning...not always. If we measure success by winning, we are worldly, I don't want to be that. I want to measure success by my Shepherd's rod. His definition of success is to go where He leads and do as He asks of us.

My shepherd has me back in Florida at work today picking up range balls at Orange County National. My heart though, was in Charleston, wishing I was having that experience of playing in a multi-day golf event. This time, it wasn't meant to me. I guess there is a reason I am here. My Shepherd will tell me when I am ready to hear.

Thank you for your prayers and support last week. I am seeking opportunities to play locally in smaller venues that still demand great play to get me ready for future events. I'll keep you informed. Have a great being a sheep.