Went the day well?, I hear them say.
What do you mean by that? Did I run each hoop?
Did I support my partner and generally remember how to play?
Did I avoid both of us landing in the eff... soup?
Well, I’ll tell you how it went; I’ll tell you the score.
I misread every lie and overhit all my balls.
I fell into deep despair and swore not to play anymore,
and I got my excuses ready for those incoming calls.
The calls from hosts and players to fill a vacant spot.
And then I suddenly realised just what this is really about.
There’s more to going out there and winning – that’s what I nearly forgot.
There’s the company of others to enjoy, and I can say without doubt
That the chance to admire my adversaries’ play,
the chance to ‘shoot the breeze’ and finish with a glass,
there’s nothing much wrong with that, a great way to end the day.
I’ll look forward to next season and just let this winter pass.
We have a lot to thank – each other for just being there,
and most of all our green sward champions, our hosts who welcome us.
They are generously hospitable and prepare their lawns with care.
Yes, there is always the croquet, but they are the real bonus.