One Step

Last Sunday, the weather was so amazing that Adam insisted we spend all day outside. This worked out well for me because I was able to convince him to go to Proper Bagel for an after-church brunch.  I used their underrated patio as my negotiating leverage!  When it came time to select an afternoon activity, I thought we would either go for a walk or sit by the pool; but, in Adam’s opinion, the only outside activity worth pursuing was to hit the range. So we did.

Don’t get me wrong, I like golf. There is nothing like a “golf nap” on a Sunday afternoon. It is the most peaceful sporting event to nap through. However, because I associate golf with these naps, when I actually play the sport, I have trouble making it through all eighteen (okay, okay… nine) holes without getting tired. On this particular day, we were just going to the driving range (which is also code for an additional hour long putting session), so I was pretty sure I could swing it… literally. 

Here is the thing about golf: there are so many steps to remember when you hit the ball. First, you have to hold the club just right. Well, actually, you have to initially pick the correct club. Let me tell you how I handle making that decision –

Me: Adam, which club should I use?

Adam: Pick a high one.

Me: Well, which way is high? Is 3 high – like 3rd place? Or, is a 9 high?

Adam: (Insert eye roll) Just get an 8.

SO, every time I hit the ball, I just use an 8, a pitching wedge, or a putter. After you pick the correct club, you have to line yourself up in the direction you want to hit the ball. The odd thing is that you are sideways, even though you want to hit it straight. Unless of course you are putting, then you have to hit it in the direction of the curve of the green. Then, you have to choke up on the club… but not too much. Interlock your fingers just so. Bend your knees and lean over the ball… but not too much. Pull your arms back to swing… but not too far back, and keep your front arm straight. Then, you swing the ball and attempt to get under it… but not too much… all while you keep your head down and knees bent.

Were you able to keep track of all those steps? I sure couldn’t.  Out of the 50 balls – I probably had two decent shots. Whenever I asked Adam what I was doing wrong, his answer was always something different. No wonder golfers make so much money!

While it takes many steps to perfect your golf swing, it only takes one step to pray.

Print available at LeMarigny 

Really, just one step. All you have to do is start talking to God. You don’t have to be in a certain place, read a particular chapter in the Bible, fold your hands together, or keep your eyes closed. You can be anywhere and just start talking to God.

The sense of peace I feel when I remember to talk to God is truly amazing. It is very easy to get caught up in all the steps to make it through the day that sometimes we forget the most important one. For me, it usually isn’t until I become so overwhelmed with the day’s “steps” that the prayers start to pour out. I only wish I could remember to talk to Him sooner. But that is the beauty of the relationship God has with us. It doesn’t matter how quickly or how long you wait to talk to him… He is always there to listen.

It only takes one step.