Just remember this two things and you will be a 'happy' golfer .. is just a game and you play against yourself.

Unless you plan to become the next Tiger Woods/Karrie Webb just take it easy and enjoy the walk.

Second hand/consignement stores is the best place to buy clubs, you can always buy the not-so-latest brands/models (about 3 months old usually) for less than half price. Got my calloways S2H2 irons for about $100. Unless you are 'up there' clubs will not make a difference.

Enjoy the game!!

first of all.... can you make contact w/ the ball 100% of the time?
...can you make it go over 50 yards?
...can you predict the *general* direction of your shot 60-70% of the time?

if you answer "no"... you've got a loooong way to go... if you want to mingle w/ them, it'll probably be easier for you to get your coworkers into de'ing their cars ;)

Find a decent set of perimeter weighted irons and almost any driver and 4 wood combination, don't spend a bundle on the equipment because you will want other stuff once you get the hang of the game. Almost any putter you are comfortable with will do. Don't go crazy on balls, Titlest ProV1's are not necessary, go cheap because you'll be losing some at first.

Do learn the etiquette of the game especially if you will be playing with other serious golfers at some point. Ask questions of your partners and play mates if you don't know something. Ignorance is no excuse. They would rather tell you beforehand than have to do it after the fact. Knowing the rules of the game will save you strokes as well.

Don't take the game too seriously and don't be an a$$ on the course, golf courses are expensive to build and maintain so minimize the damage, don't throw clubs, it's dangerous and childish. If serious about learning the game join the USGA, it cost $15 and is worth it.

Watch other good golfers and see if you can emulate their swing, it will not be easy. No one said it's a fast game to learn.

In spite of what others say, it is a great game. You keep you own score, so no cheating. You can tell a great deal about a person by the way they conduct themselves on the course, no matter how they play the game.

And as the old maeistro answered the question of how do you get to Carneigie Hall? Practice, Practice, Practice

And for God sake, take you hat off when you go into a clubhouse. Remember, it is a gentleman's game.

No kidding. I am working on getting my new boss into a Carrera soon. I have now been out to the range 3 times and I see a miniscule improvement but I have been told the range and the putting green are my best friend as I learn the game.

Some speak of golf as if it were a religion.

Please look up George Carlin's take on Golf.