I have been spending a lot of time on the golf course these days and I am getting familiar with terms like mulligan being used by players. So, I decided to do some research and see exactly what the term mulligan means.
According to Wikipedia (the online version of the encyclopedia), a mulligan can be defined in two ways.
The first definition is as follows.
1. 鈥渁 stew made from odds and ends of food.鈥�
(Sort of a last minute, what is in the fridge, let鈥檚 try mixing that together, kind of meal.)
I can honestly say that after a day at work, with only a limited amount of time before we head out to the rink, ball diamond or dance class, many of my meals have resembled this.
The only thing I have ever heard my children refer to it as, is 鈥渨hat on earth is this?鈥�
I am happy to know that I can correct them and let them know that indeed my cooking is what we refer to as a mulligan. You may have also had this kind of meal at your Grandma鈥檚 house, but for whatever reason, no matter what she threw in there, it always tasted delicious.
The second definition refers to golf.
2. 鈥渁n extra stroke allowed after a poor shot, not counted on the score card (in informal golf)鈥�
It didn't take me long to realize I enjoy the term mulligan in my kitchen, as well as my golf game. What's not to like about getting a second chance at a shot without having to mark it on your score card, especially since my score resembles a strong 18, even though I only golfed nine holes.
I am really enjoying the mulligan both on and off the course and I can't help but think about all the other areas in my life that it could benefit. The benefits of a mulligan could be enjoyed more than just in the kitchen and your golf game. Imagine the possibilities.
Whether it be a first date, a job interview, a time when you put your foot in your mouth, or a Rider game, there are times we could all use a mulligan - a chance to do something over without having to mark it on our 鈥榮core card鈥�.
So next time, no matter on which field you are playing - whether it be a golf course, kitchen or somewhere else - if you mess up the first time and need a second chance - get up, wipe off the dust and declare it a mulligan.
