If you follow my religion, you are a purist, outdoors in nature. Though some have taken to worship inside, using modern technology and simulators. As a group, we endure the novice, who wander the fairways in search of their lost ball. Those who only practice on special days or holidays. They lack dedication or are overcome by the mundane world of family or work.

It is simple. Break it down to the basics of The Drive, the Approach and the Putt. Everyone has a different ritual for each step, but it comes down to focus and repetitive acts. What it teaches each of us is patience, moderation of force and inner peace. Each step bringing you closer to your goal. If you miss your target, you have to take you next swing from where you are, not where you want to be. The final shot is precise, distance, speed, looking for every variation before you. Good life lessons there.

When I started playing golf, I tried to hit the ball as hard as I could and hoped. As I grew to understand the goal of the game, I became more concerned about the outcome over the flash of an impressive shot. Repeating the mantra, “Slow down. Shorten up the back swing”, I came closer to my goal. Not perfection, just better than I was last time.

I am religious about golf since I retired, in a secular sense, trying to find that quiet place in myself. It’s something that I’ve done throughout my life when I was trying to find my feet. I was working my way through PTSD or divorce, turbulent changes worked out while I was concentrating on a sport.