Patty Mayeux Blog

Divots are holes dug into a perfect green field by an overzealous or misdirected swing. Golfers merely replace the detached lump, stomp it into the earth and call it good. How do we react when we goof up and ruin the perceived perfection of a pristine life? Pristine and perfection are ideals, not to be found in a fully engaged life. Mistakes ugly up our shiny illusions, but they signify progress. Divots are scars, lasting marks that serve as reminders of action, movement, struggles and attempts. One can’t live a life that is going somewhere and maintain flawlessness. Mistakes, close calls, errors in judgements and goofs have taught me a better way. The green space of my life is full of divots. It’s not pretty, but the scars add a one-of-a-kind beauty to a full life. Golfer or not, learn from your gashes and gaps. Find delight in your divots. Correct your swing, but by all means, don’t give up on the imperfect life. Stomp the clod of dirt back into the earth and move on. Every divot on your own marred and scarred life has taught you something of value. There is no perfection in golf, or in living. Embrace the imperfect beauty of your life!