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SAN ANTONIO
MEDICINE

GOLF is a Four-Letter Word

By John J. Seidenfeld, MD

It pains me to say this, but my younger self sees my older long learning curve, frustration and anger as emotions that arise in
self as elderly. Though some people start golf at a younger age to enjoy some, and physical maladies which a grandfather explained as com-
the game for a lifetime, even those who start later should look forward plaint categories after forty years of age, “asses and elbows.” We might
to camaraderie, a nice walk and help with tracking errant balls. Two have our new car columnist write about the costs of golf equipment
years ago, a friend asked me to join him on the links. Some history of depending on how seriously one is about the game. These might be
our relationship is important to better understand my response. We anywhere from a used Chevy to a new Beemer in his parlance.
were once a tennis doubles team and always had an enjoyable time play- The way to get from a used Chevy to a new Beemer might include
ing. We also played softball and made a formidable shortstop to first regular lessons from a professional for many years, the latest clubs by
base connection. This was mostly because of his excellent fielding at tailor made (Taylor Made?), golf tourism once the pandemic abates al-
shortstop and pinpoint throws to first base. Occasionally I connected though this is what we sometimes imagine as we play at all San Anto-
well with pitches while at bat and would drain the bases. I still remem- nio’s courses, shoes and outfits to match the course and weather, golf
ber, fondly, patients we cared for as doctors over the years. For these carts and other paraphernalia, psychoanalysis to work on swings and
reasons one could only say yes to his invitation. A few words of caution competitive urges, and public courses known as the Alamo Golf Trail
as to why you should or should not say yes to such a proposition. versus country club membership and fees.
Reasons to say “yes” are that when we play golf, we walk for one-to- Some describe golf as “a good walk spoiled” (attributed to Mark
two hours and pull carts with our clubs around a par three, nine-hole Twain and John Feinstein) but your frame of mind and reasons for
city course. We discuss life events and plans, ask questions about all as- playing temper a hasty condemnation. Medical professionals do serious
pects of life, speak spontaneously without inhibition, suggest new work and need down time to balance the difficult encounters. Because
streaming shows and books, marvel at good shots but do not keep score of our historically mild weather in South Texas, we have played almost
unless we are doing well, often drop another ball if we mishit or lose each week in 2020 and plan to continue in 2021 despite the one week
one, and never feel the need to lie or cover up if many shots are taken. of winter in February this year. Other four-letter words to consider
The formula we use to rate the day is that the walk and talk get a grade are “love” of the “game”, “mate” to share the day with, and the “walk”
of 85% and any good shots add to the total. Anger and frustration are that is part of it. I hope your outing brings you more joy than pain.
discouraged, and we agree that this is a difficult game. My friend is a
good golfer, and this beginner is open to his suggestions. John J. Seidenfeld, MD is the Chair of the BCMS Publica-
Reasons to say “no” to the golf proposition include other things you tions Committee.
might do with your time, the cost of equipment and greens fees, the

32 SAN ANTONIO MEDICINE • April 2021