FORE the Love of Yes
The morning sun peeked over the horizon as I loaded my golf clubs into the back of my SUV. My car was packed to the brim including snacks, drinks, grab bag gift, golf shoes, clubs, and more quarters and dimes than I’d carried in all my life. I laughed to myself, wondering if I’d brought everything except the kitchen sink. It was the start of a four-day golf retreat, and although I didn’t quite know what to expect, my heart buzzed with both excitement and a touch of nervous anticipation.
Several months earlier, at a meeting as a relatively new member, someone had asked if I golfed. I’d stumbled through my answer, “Well, not really. Sort of. I used to.” I played the occasional charity event or fun outing, but I wouldn’t call myself an avid golfer. That’s when Judy turned to me with a sparkle in her eye and asked, “Would you like to be a stand-in for our annual golf retreat?” For some reason, without much hesitation, I said yes. At that moment, I didn’t realize how that simple yes would open the door to something so much bigger than a game.
As the months passed, the details started to unfold and so did my mild panic. I learned the group would be playing twenty-seven holes of golf a day?! My summer women’s league only played nine holes a week! I began questioning my sanity and whether my body and patience could handle that much golf. Thankfully, a friend reassured me that not everyone plays all 27 holes, and I breathed a sigh of relief, which took the pressure off. Still, the preparation list grew: snacks, drinks, small bills and coins for games, a potluck dish, a grab bag gift (which sparked some hilarious confusion and laughter), and of course, golf gear for every kind of weather.
The morning of our departure arrived, and I picked up my friend Marilyn. My SUV was already half full, and when I saw her mound of luggage, I couldn’t help but laugh. I hoped we didn’t need to stop for anything else! We joked as we wiggled, shuffled, and somehow made it all fit. Ninety minutes later, we arrived, checked in, changed into our golf shoes and loaded our carts. My heart skipped as we headed to the first tee. I was playing with two women I didn’t know, and one I met briefly months earlier of whom would be my roommate for the next few days.
The first nine holes were a blur of nerves and new faces. My roommate reminded me of the dimes I would be needing.“My dimes?!” Oh no. They were back in my luggage. Rookie mistake number one. But the we laughed it off, and in that moment, the ice melted.
Each day brought a new mix of foursomes and creative challenges: dice rolls, blind pin shots, scrambles, and laughter that carried across the fairways. I may not have been the best golfer out there, but I quickly learned that skill didn’t matter nearly as much as spirit. Between rounds, we cheered for each other, swapped stories, and encouraged one another through every shanked shot and triumphant putt.
By the end of each long day, we were happily exhausted. Nights were spent in cozy rooms, gathered around tables with snacks and quarters, playing games like Left, Right, Center, and something involving dinosaurs that had us laughing until our sides ached.
There were twelve of us in total, and although I’d started the week knowing only a few, by the last evening I had gained a circle of new friends. Women who were funny, kind, and a little competitive in the best way.
During our final (potluck of sorts) dinner, as the laughter settled and the stories flowed, one of the women called out, “Let’s take a vote, should we keep the new girl?” My heart raced as hands shot up around the room, all in favor. It was unanimous. I was in.
I smiled through laughter, realizing this was so much more than a golf trip. It was a reminder that saying yes, even when it feels uncomfortable or uncertain, can lead to unexpected joy, new friendships, and experiences that fill your soul.
Sometimes, all it takes is one brave “yes” to remind you that life is meant to be lived with open hands and an open heart. Whether it’s joining a retreat, trying something new, or stepping outside your comfort zone, every yes plants a seed of possibility.
So here’s my gentle encouragement to you, don’t wait for the perfect moment, the right skill level, or all the answers. Pack your bags, grab your dimes, and say yes to the adventure waiting for you. Opening your heart fore the love of yes, just might lead you to laughter, friendship, and moments that change your life forever.
xo, Sheryl
PS … meet Chester our mascot … haha!
PSS … I’m happy to report, I’m saying yes again next year!
You can find Imperfectly Charming wherever you listen to your podcasts. Or click here now to listen to the trailer on Apple, Spotify or my RSS Feed.
Conversations with My Soul Course
Download My Gift to You (and access to my weekly newsletter)
To order the 6 Step Path to Self-Love Ebook and Journal.
To join my free private community with live coaching and exclusive content.