(17, FL, USA) Fran - Golfing Tranquility

I wake up to the sounds of birds chirping and see the tall trees standing in the distance. I open two large wooden windows, where I see a green golf course. I stand with my elbow touching the base of the window, looking at all the golfers playing. Golf was never a sport I enjoyed playing, but watching them play seemed to intrigue me. There was silence before they hit and soft conversation after the ball touched the grassy floor. Sometimes I would hear a grunt if their ball ended up in the sandpit, yet it was still intriguing to watch.

While I was watching the golfers play, I heard my name from downstairs. It was my grandfather; he was asking if I wanted to join him and his friend for golf. I said I guessed and just watched them play. I got to see golf up close and see their play in detail. I found it so interesting how a sport can be so quiet, yet so much action can be happening. Maybe it was because I was used to American sports like football and basketball, where there was always cheering and constant yelling. Watching my grandfather and his friend play was nice; the weather was pleasant, not too hot and not too cold. Even though the game was confusing to understand, I managed to enjoy the time spent with my grandfather.

Normally, when I go to Brazil, I like to stay at home and not do much since I am not a local and don’t know my way around the city. However, it is moments like these when I realize that I don’t need to be out and about; I can just enjoy the game of golf. Although it sounds funny, golf for me is peaceful, and I consider it a mind game. You have to be focused to succeed, and that applies to many other things too. My grandfather is someone who manages to stay focused and calm at the same time. I tell myself, “No wonder he is so good at golf.”