Hot Enough For You?

Speaking about perserverance, recently I had the opportunity to caddy for my son playing in a state open against quality amateurs and club pros. It turned out to be the hottest day of the year, 100+, and as the day wore on and the experience of his playing partners kept them afloat, my son's focus and enthusiasm melted in the sun. After playing three holes in a row in 5 over par, I heard the words I thought I'd never hear. "I don't want to play anymore. Let's stop." But he's fourteen and had had enough and knew he wasn't going to qualify so he just wanted out. And I, carrying his bag in the sun, could see a couch in an air conditioned room with an ice tea not far away, but no. I told him "No way are you quitting. Unless you're sick, you're finishing this round. No way." He never said another word, continued on, played better, I think even enjoyed the rest of the round, and gained some admiration from his older and more experienced playing partners. And on the way home, I looked at him and said "Now aren't you glad I wouldn't let you quit." And he said, "Gee thanks dad, you were right, you're the best and smartest dad in the world." Yeah right, he just looked at me and shrugged. But as he turned away, I saw the slightest smile flash across his lips. At least I think I did.