I enjoy Golf Digest's Golf Guru column. He's brief, interesting and to the point. I was particularly taken by his quickie column in January's issue called the guru's advice for hard times. He pointed out a recently published report listing five tips for well-being in these turbulent times. And upon first glance most of the tips were, well, not really much about golf. Ah, but the guru can connect life and golf like no other.

1. Connect with family, friends, colleagues and neighbors. What better way than during a round of golf?
2. Excercise. It makes you feel good. A five mile walk plus lots of calisthenic golf swings will chase away the blues.
3. Take notice. Catch site of the beautiful. Savor the moment. Ponder those gorgeous trees, the dramatic sky, the wonder of it all.
4. Keep learning. Try something new. Discover swing theories, tips or new shots from books, magazines or your local pro. Then try them. Practice. Preserve.
5. Give. Do something nice for a friend or a stranger. Thank the pro, the starter, the ranger. Look for your opponent's ball. Concede putts. Donate a prize or volunteer for a junior program. Be generous with tips and smiles

So it's official, says the guru ...golf makes you happy. And true happiness is completely recession-proof!

Once again I'm reminded just how the game parallels life itself. I had to read over the list a few extra times. I found them all so true about life, and golf. So now it's your turn. How is the great game going to help you navigate your troubled waters?