It is almost impossible to remember how tragic a place the world

Hearken, O seekers of peace and reflection, and attend the words of Robert Wilson Lynd, who spoke with the gentle wisdom of one who glimpsed both the sorrows of the world and the balm of nature: “It is almost impossible to remember how tragic a place the world is when one is playing golf.” In these words lies a profound truth: that amid the struggles, griefs, and burdens of life, there exist sanctuaries where the spirit is renewed, attention is absorbed, and sorrow is momentarily suspended.

The origin of this insight rests in Lynd’s observation of human nature and the rhythms of sport. Golf, with its serene landscapes, precise movements, and meditative pacing, offers a refuge from the turmoil of the world. When one is immersed in the pursuit of the perfect swing, the flight of the ball, and the strategy of the course, the mind is absorbed in focus, and the weight of tragedy recedes. It is a reminder that engagement in purposeful action can provide respite and clarity even in a world rife with difficulty.

Consider the story of Bobby Jones, whose mastery of golf during the early twentieth century brought him acclaim and joy even as the world faced turmoil between wars and economic strife. On the greens, amid the contours of fairways and greens, Jones and his contemporaries found a temporary sanctuary—a place where precision, thought, and skill eclipsed worry and despair. Lynd’s reflection mirrors this experience: sport, particularly golf, offers a temporary reprieve from sorrow, allowing the spirit to breathe and the mind to recover.

The ancients understood this principle in their own ways. Greek philosophers often retreated to gardens or places of natural beauty, contemplating life while surrounded by the rhythms of nature. The Roman poet Horace advised that amidst life’s burdens, one should “seize the day” and find delight in simple pleasures, for in such engagement the mind is freed from the weight of worldly griefs. Golf, Lynd suggests, serves a similar purpose: a structured yet natural pursuit that absorbs the spirit.

Yet there is also a deeper meaning in his words. The temporary suspension of tragedy does not denote ignorance or denial; it demonstrates the power of presence, focus, and absorption. By directing attention to the demands of the game, the mind is trained to engage fully, to appreciate precision, strategy, and the beauty of the course. In this immersion, one discovers a lesson about life itself: even amid sorrow, there exist moments of clarity, joy, and renewal, should one cultivate attention and presence.

From this reflection, a lesson emerges: seek activities that absorb the mind and rejuvenate the spirit. Purposeful engagement—whether through sport, art, or craft—provides relief from the burdens of the world, allowing reflection and restoration. Lynd’s insight reminds us that the human spirit thrives when given sanctuary, however brief, to focus, create, and delight.

Practical action follows naturally: cultivate habits and pursuits that offer both challenge and absorption. Whether it be golf, music, painting, or meditation, allow yourself to enter fully into the moment. Attend to the task with precision and care, and let the activity temporarily shield you from the weight of external sorrows. In doing so, one nurtures resilience, clarity, and joy.

Thus, let the words of Robert Wilson Lynd endure: it is almost impossible to remember how tragic a place the world is when one is playing golf. Embrace moments of absorption and focused endeavor, for in these sanctuaries the spirit finds renewal, the mind finds clarity, and the heart discovers temporary peace amid life’s enduring challenges. In the practice of skill and attention, one glimpses the resilience and beauty that persist even in a troubled world.