As I stood at my easel, I felt the familiar rush of excitement that only golf can bring.
Yesterday’s painting (I didn’t get a chance to post this before now) is a tribute to the sport that has been a constant source of joy and inspiration throughout my life.
Growing up on the golf course, I was surrounded by the beauty and challenge of the game. At a young age, it was mostly about the challenge. Though I had a good game, I think I was too young to grasp the mental part of the game. I was very hard on myself.
I have many memories as a junior golfer. We played many provincial tournaments across New-Brunswick. My aunt had a little VW Jetta that drove us there, or sometimes barely, lol. We ate patachous after our rounds. My trip to Victoria BC, where I represented Atlantic Canada in a Northern American tournament, was my biggest achievement.
But my fondest memories of golf, is the support dad gave me through it all. Dad drove me to all those tournaments. Dad got me private lessons in Miramichi. Dad was my caddie. He believed in me. He was my good-luck charm. I often talk about mom, and how I miss her. But dad is pretty awesome too and I am forever grateful of his love and support. “Marci Pap!”
I have played on and off through the years, but my love for golf never wavered. As I grew older, though I’m still competitive in nature, I learned to appreciate the fresh air, the lush green grass, and the sound of birds chirping in the trees. I learned how to bring patience and trust to the course. Last summer, I reconnected with the game, and played with my cousins all through the season. A whole bunch of priceless moments I got to share with some of the people I love the most.
Even when I’m not on the course, I find myself thinking about the game, reliving memories, and dreaming of future ones. My painting is a reflection of that passion. Golf is similar to art in a lot of ways. You get lost in the moment, completely focused on the shot at hand. Both need patience, practice, and a willingness to take risks. Both offer a sense of fulfillment and joy that’s hard to find elsewhere.
As I look at my painting, I’m reminded of all the reasons why I love golf. I hope that it will inspire you to pursue your passions, whether that’s golf, art, or something entirely different.
