Being in Portland for the second consecutive year to watch the LPGA Cambia Classic and Brooke Henderson has been so much fun. It is Saturday morning, “moving day”, and Brooke is tied to the lead at 10 under par. She had an amazing back nine yesterday afternoon, with good par saves, many birdies and an eagle from 82 yards away. The systematic way that she and her sister Brittany, capable caddie, go about their business on the course is to be emulated. Polite, friendly, focused – all of these characteristics in full view.
The healthy approach that the Henderson’s take to professional golf very much fits with nice efforts by the Cambia Classic organizers to foster good spirits and good health at the tournament. They provide lots of fruit for spectators, as well as water, lip balm and sun block. Washrooms are plentiful, and a variety of food vendors are available for the hunger and thirst that builds while walking the course. A lot is written about the healthiness of golf spectating, especially if one walks with a particular golf group. In essence one gets about 15,000 steps of walking up and down hills, in the greenery of the beautiful Edgewater course with fresh air and little but good vibes coming from the players, the “quiet” sign people, the “ropes” people and those busily recording for the Golf Channel. The weather has been warm and sunny, but not brutally humid. Yet, staying hydrated is an absolute must in the afternoon when temperatures are reaching the mid 30’s Centigrade the upcoming two days.
In this bubble of comfort and enjoyment, it is still not possible, nor should it be, to forget about peoples around the world who are not in a peaceful, healthful environment. There are so many on this planet that are stretched and stressed severely every day. Among those most prominent lately are the millions affected by the hurricane, rains and flooding of southern Texas. Lives lost, livelihoods and neighbourhoods broken, cities devastated, tears shed. Heroism and humanity have surfaced in all of this mess, as the human spirit finds a deeper courage and critical selfless motivations that calm, salvage and heal. It is beautiful to know that Stacey Lewis will donate her winnings, whatever they are, to the Houston relief effort. While it is her home, it is more important that she is symbolizing the needs we must meet in Houston. Perhaps others will also give a little more in following this visible lead of kindness.
Health, safety, security and fulfillment are what we wish everyone on the planet. Taking our healthy fortunate in Portland this weekend, and helping those desperately struggling is more than the right thing to do.