It was almost two weeks ago that news broke of Arnold Palmer’s death. Arnold Palmer was one of my heroes. Anyone who knows me knows how much I love the game of golf. It’s a beautiful game in so many ways and has had many great men and women leave their mark on it over the years, including Arnold Palmer.
Palmer revolutionized the way the game was played, and certainly the way the sport was watched. He garnered more attention, fans, and spectators at tournaments than anyone who came before him. He was a spectacle to watch as he took on the toughest golf courses in the world and the best competition.
As much as I admired Arnold Palmer and the way he played the game, I admired even more the way he lived his life. He was always a gentleman on and off the course. He remained humble and true to himself and his upbringing no matter how much success he attained. He gave time to everyone, whether they were rich or poor, black or white, young or old. He used his platform to make a difference in the world.
I will never forget in 2013 when I had a chance to go the Masters golf tournament for the Wednesday practice round with my dad and brother. If you’re a fan of the Masters you may know the Wednesday tradition of the Par 3 contest. After finishing their practice rounds, all the players head over to the small, par 3 course at Augusta National for a little fun before the real tournament begins on Thursday. For many years, even after retiring from golf, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, and Arnold Palmer would come back to play in the Par 3 contest.
As we watched these three legends of the game make their way around the course I was struck by how Arnold Palmer took his time going around to wave at everyone as he went by. He would stop to sign autographs for everyone who asked. He paused to visit with Condoleezza Rice who was there to watch him play, as well as every child who wanted a high five.
Arnold Palmer knew what it meant to stay humble, show kindness, and treat everyone with respect. Today, in honor of Arnold Palmer, let’s each take time to reflect upon where we come from and remember to show kindness to every person we meet.
