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What is the greatest lesson we can learn from golf etiquette? We learn respect and honor, we learn tradition and history, and we learn patience. These are all fine things to learn as we play our game of golf. But the greatest lesson we learn from golf etiquette is humility. All etiquette, whether relating to golf, dining, business or otherwise, is an exercise in considering the needs and concerns of someone else above your own, and that is an act of humility. The essence of confession is also an act of humility. Confession is recognizing that a transgression has occurred and taking responsibility for that transgression. In order to do so one must be humble and admit to the mistake before others. There is growth in the experience of confession, too. As one sincerely admits to committing some error, there is the desire to refrain from that mistake again and to learn from the experience. We live in a world of arrogance and behavior towards one another that is increasingly hostile and aggressive. Our "in-your-face" culture models, and tries to reward behavior that is eroding the basic civility of society. Why? Because it sells. There is no money to be made in humility (as Mr. Golf Etiquette will, no doubt, prove). But the long-term benefits far outweigh any gain that can be derived from separating fools from their money. The Golf Etiquette Confessional will provide a place where golfers can humbly report their errors on the golf course, as they relate to etiquette infractions. It takes courage to admit when one is wrong. So please, muster up your courage and step forward and confess. In doing so you will feel better and you will be a better golfer. (No names are required, but if you wish to include your name that is fine.) Enter the Confessional: |