I find no pleasure in kicking people when they are down. In fact, I perceive such inclinations as sadistic, self-righteous, and downright mean spirited. If we stumbled upon an injured person, would we give them a good shove instead of rendering aid? We would be horrified if we read something like that in the news. I am so thankful that I am above such hostile and uncaring attitudes. Perhaps I should think again…

Let me begin by confessing that I was rather pleased that Phil Mickelson was fitted for a green jacket at Augusta instead of Tiger Woods. I have to be honest.  I was just glad that Tiger did not win the Masters this year. And then a few weeks later Tiger failed to make the cut at Quail Hollow. Now I don’t want to be honest. But I must. I found some sort of sick pleasure when I heard the news that Tiger would not be back for the final round of that tournament. I entertained those serves him right kind of thoughts. But such notions are not sadistic or mean, because I am above those kinds of attitudes.

Tiger’s troubles have only escalated the past few days. Tiger suddenly withdrew from the Players Championship this past weekend before completing the front nine off Sunday’s round. He cited a mysterious neck injury as the reason. There has been all kinds of speculation regarding the condition of Tiger’s neck since. Must I be honest again? I automatically assumed that Tiger was viewing his poor game as a pain in the neck. I questioned his motives for withdrawing so suddenly. Golf commentators around the world appeared to concur. But I still viewed myself as a really nice guy.

It was announced today that Tiger’s coach resigned. I had an immediate response once again, but it is much easier to be honest this time. The first thought I had? How much stress can one man handle? His life has seemly fallen apart since the post Thanksgiving weekend revelation of numerous marital indiscretions. His wife has left him. Some of his golf sponsors have withdrawn support. His game is in trouble. And the media has not been kind.

Once again I must be honest. I learned today that it is important to reach out to people who are truly down. What if they have brought all of their troubles on themselves? Last time I checked most of us bring troubles on ourselves. There is no room for self righteousness. Sadistic gloating is always out of bounds in the game of life.

Tiger is going to need some real friends. If they are good friends, they will challenge his behavior both on and off the golf course. They will express tough love. It wont’ be fun nor will it be pleasant. Sitting back and gloating is wrong.  It is wrong when we express it toward someone we know quite well and it is equally wrong when done to a celebrity golfer. Tiger’s troubles may be only beginning. But to be honest I plan to pray for the man from this point forward.  How about you? Do you find pleasure in kicking people when they are down? I know now that I possess such inclinations…