Wow, it’s been a minute. It’s been a minute since my last blog entry where I typically have life advice for the reader but of course, ignore my own word. Truthfully, I’ve been lost on where to start. For a person who makes a living writing witty tweets, eye-catching emails, and company blogs, I’ve seem to forgotten where to begin. Typically, I try to share something I’m passionate about like homemade dill soup, or family relations; ya know, the warm and fuzzies. While I’ve been mulling on a topic for the last several weeks, I decided to grab my computer and just write. I’m stuck with so many options. In the last couple months, I’ve started a bartending gig, added a couple more pounds, ended a true break-up (breaking up because John Cena lost in 2008 doesn’t count), picked up some new baking recipes, lost a Grandma, discovered the process of buying a house and splurged on golf as a new hobby. All great reasons to write, but I’m at a loss of words.
Life is on the tee
Since I’m swinging an iron to see where the ball lands in this blog, I’ll begin by comparing my latest hobby to our pandemic heavy, election-driven lives. This week, I’ve woken up in anxiety wondering if my phone has reported on the state of our country. I’ve woken up fearful that one of my grandmothers has become recently ill with COVID-19. I’ve rolled out of bed earlier than usual just to have 5 more morning seconds with my roommates because I don’t know what the day lies ahead. As teachers, it’s a game of when will they be quarantined or stuck doing online learning. It’s a lot of thoughts for the care-free lifestyle I try to live. So, just like that first drive off the golf tee, take a deep breathe, relax, and follow through. One bad swing doesn’t define your end score, just like one bad day (or year, thanks 2020) doesn’t define your life.
Our lives are set up on the tee. They are waiting for adventure, big or small, and new hobbies. Try new foods. Explore a new walking trail. Break out of your everyday routine. It doesn’t matter your age, status, or other priorities, anyone can golf even for just a day. Ask Harold at the Randall Hills Country Club.
You are the driver
On the journey of life, you are the driver (ha, get it?). You decide to go to church on Sunday, you decide to visit your friend miles away and most importantly, you decide if you are happy. Nobody, and let me repeat that again, NOBODY can tell you how you feel. Advice is precious and always welcomed on the course but remember to do what feels right. Your heart will be much louder if you take out the headphones blaring the playlist, "World Problems Remix". Don’t forget to fix your divots, but don’t focus on every dirt mound or you will never find your groove.
Grab the ice; pack the cooler
Every 9 holes requires a little mischief. Whether it’s a Yeti-filled with R&R or a two-pack of Swisher Sweets, life has an ugly side. The side where nobody acts perfect, everyone has a crutch, and we all learn to love each other for it. Matthew 22:39, “Love thy neighbor as thyself.” Love your blue friends, your red friends, your sober friends, your drunk friends, your exes, your ohs, and most importantly, yourself.
Now go play a round of golf before it snows and don’t forget to tip your bartenders!
Photo credit to Brooklyn Tolliver on the Fort Randall Golf Course. 2020.
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