The Pope met with his Cardinals to discuss a proposal from Benjamin Netanyahu, the leader of Israel. Your Holiness , said one of his Cardinals, Mr. Netanyahu wants to challenge you to a game of golf to show the friendship and ecumenical spirit shared by the Jewish and Catholic faiths. The Pope thought this was a good idea, but he had never held a golf club in his hand. Dont we have a Cardinal to represent me? he asked. None that plays very well, a Cardinal replied. But, he added, there is a man named Jack Nicklaus, an American golfer who is a devout Catholic. We can offer to make him a Cardinal, and then ask him to play Mr. Netanyahu as your personal representative. In addition to showing our spirit of cooperation, well also win the match. Everyone agreed it was a good idea, and the call was made. Of course, Nicklaus was honored to be made a Cardinal, and agreed to play. The day after the match, Cardinal Nicklaus reported to the Vatican to inform the Pope of the result. I have some good news and some bad news, your Holiness, said the golfer. Tell me the good news first, Cardinal Nicklaus, said the Pope. Well, your Holiness, I dont like to brag. Even though Ive played some pretty terrific rounds of golf in my life, this was the best I have ever played, by far. I must have been inspired from above. My drives were long and true, my irons were accurate and purposeful, and my putting was perfect. I played like I was 30 years old again. With all due respect, my play was truly miraculous. And what’s the bad news? the Pope asked. Nicklaus sighed. I lost to Rabbi Phil Mickelson by three strokes. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Posted on: Thu, 07 Nov 2013 18:49:53 +0000
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