Lessons From Augusta

Whether you play golf or not, you can learn some valuable life lessons from The Masters and Augusta National. Congrats to Trevor Immelman and his weekend win to become only the second player from South Africa to earn the coveted green jacket. Every Spring thousands descend on the luscious and demanding course built by the legendary Bobby Jones. Jones was undoubtedly the greatest golfer to never turn pro, but his passion for the game was unmatched. The gentleman Jones retired from championship golf in 1930 with a dream to build a golf course like no other. The dream was realized when the first tournament was held at Augusta National in 1934. The sheer beauty of Augusta is something that can be appreciated by golfers and non-golfers alike.

By and large golf fans are a well-mannered lot and mindful of golf etiquette. However, at The Masters it seems to be even more pronounced than any other professional tournament, or event. For example, at many tournaments you can spot fans running between holes to get a better glimpse of the action, or one of their favorite pros. Not at Augusta. Running is prohibited. At many tournaments fans have to be quieted with signs held by officials along the course, but not at Augusta. At some tournaments fans don't seem to be as considerate of others as they hurry by, or bump into other fans en route to their favorite spot. At the Masters people from all over the world gather and treat each other with respect. Augusta just seems to raise the behavior bar of expectations placed on fans and players. It also raises the bar in sheer beauty and attention to detail. Spectators are also provided with everything (from signage, handouts, an abundance of volunteers) they need to enjoy the experience.

Last year a friend of mine went to his first NFL game. He has been a lifelong fan of his beloved team. Imagine waiting most of your life to go to a sporting event you dreamed about and followed as a kid? My friend will never go back. He couldn't believe the number of people who were drunk, loud, and offensive in their behavior. Not at Augusta. Yes, alcohol is served, but you don't see drunk people. No one yells or screams. People cheer and applaud, but offensive and obnoxious behavior is just not tolerated.

I know many view the Masters as the tournament of an elite and exclusive private golf club. That's another discussion. I'm simply focusing on the dynamics surrounding the tournament not the private club. But what lessons can we take away from this historic tournament for life and churches?

1. Raise the bar of respect and common courtesies and people will respond accordingly.
2. Don't tolerate obnoxious, loud, boisterous, cutting behavior.
3. Create an environment where people of all walks of life are welcomed and respected.
4. Attention to detail is noticed and appreciated.
5. Your presence should make your community and world a better place.
6. There's no substitute for genuine hospitality.
7. An army of cheerful and helpful volunteers speaks volumes.
8. Trust people and they will trust you.

Life lessons can be found in any setting. Augusta provides many if you'll look beyond the golf!