Tomorrow kicks off one of my favorite four days of the sports calendar year–The Masters. There is something about the mystique and lure of Augusta National that produces an event–you know what’s coming next–unlike any other (sorry I had to).
And just like years past this year’s Masters is not short on intrigue. Sure, Tiger Woods comes to the tournament as the overwhelming favorite, but he is doing his part to add a little drama despite what many view as a forgone conclusion. Since the golf season started, Tiger has been beating his own drum, proclaiming “the Grand Slam is easily within reach.” Many may scoff at such bravado but before we work ourselves into a frenzy, let’s evaluate this statement for what it is–the truth.
Tiger has been playing golf at a level never seen before. It has to be demoralizing for his competitors to know that if Tiger brings his A game, they simple can not win. No way. No how. Tiger is one of the few athletes in sport (if not the only one) that is so clearly without peers he can’t lose on his best day. It is this fact that gives him the right to say a Grand slam is easily within reach. If Tiger continues to play the way he has to start the season, it is not only easily within reach, it is an absolute certainty.
By putting a stake in the ground, Tiger has added a certain level of drama to this tournament. If he doesn’t win, will people be questioning his bravado? I know I won’t.
To be able under all circumstances to practice five things constitutes perfect virtue; these five things are gravity, generosity of soul, sincerity, earnestness and kindness.
To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.
Don’t waste yourself in rejection, nor bark against the bad, but chant the beauty of the good.
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