While I  was knocking out some writing on the trusty laptop I turned on the Pebble Beach US Open marathon for some background noise and found myself drawn in for two reasons: it was anyone’s tournament to win, and Tiger was enough in the hunt that I knew we’d get a live soundbite or two from him once his round was complete.

Then I started to break down my preoccupation with that one and realized why I really cared, and came to the conclusion that I was so unsatisfied with how he dealt with the press after The Masters that I’d been hoping beyond realistic hope that he’d markedly step up his camera face and show a little understanding for the game going on outside his head.

Unsurprisingly, I was once again disappointed.

While guys like Phil Mickelson were obviously still preoccupied with how the round unsuccessfully played out for them, they all had very complimentary things to say in their reflection.  For Phil it was appreciation for a great walk on a great course, and acknowledgment of appreciation for the USGA choosing such a spectacular venue.  For others including Tom Watson it was an appreciation for the crowds and, again, the opportunity to spend the weekend at such a remarkable place.

Tiger?  Well, once again we heard how his round sucked and that’s about it.

It seems time for Woods to strongly consider focusing on the positive, even when the negative is inevitably going to be part of the conversation.  It’s hard to strike compassion for a faltering champion who completely fails to acknowledge even the slightest appreciation and honor for the opportunity to be in the position he’s in, regardless the outcome.

In times like these, humility is an important trait.