The Little Red Book

For years I've perused shelf after shelf of books at bookstores and airport terminals across the country, and in every single one I've seen a small, underwhelming book on the game of Golf. No wonder I passed it by.

Only recently did I discover what a jewel this testament to life this little book is.

The book's author Harvey Penick was a golf professional and coach in the second half of the 20th century who coached many Hall of Fame players. However, it was late in life when he decided to write down the wisdom gained from his time loving, playing, and coaching the game.

I never developed the passion for golf as others in my family have, and therefore didn't think twice about passing over this book time and time again. Better late than never, peeking into the life of this golfer and learning the lessons he has to teach transcends golf in a way I understand with my true passions.

Harvey Penick writes,

"Golf has probably kept more people sane than psychiatrists have."

I hear,

"Painting has probably kept more people sane than psychiatrists have."

 

Harvey Penick writes,

"Go out and have fun. Golf is a game for everyone, not just a talented few."

I hear,

"Go out and have fun. Painting is a pasttime for everyone, not just a talented few."

 

Harvey Penick writes,

"The woods are full of long drivers."

I hear,

"Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah."  

I have no idea what that means.  But I'm going to guess not everyone who plays golf is skilled or perfect and not everyone who paints is skilled or perfect, but we still enjoy the process.   That's my story, anyway.

 

Golf has probably kept more people sane than psychiatrists have.
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/h/harvey_penick.html#SzxAp5yJmML2y3mp.99

Golf has probably kept more people sane than psychiatrists have.
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/h/harvey_penick.html#SzxAp5yJmML2y3mp.99

Comments

[Larry Brewer]

That's funny, of course as a golfer, I've read the little red book, and I really have to say that the man was pretty smart about life in general. I agree with you that painting is probably just as much of a stress reliever as golf, especially if you do it in a beautiful outdoor environment. As far as a long drive into the woods, I guess that's the same as starting a painting and deciding that you have to start over. The difference is that you don't keep score.