Re: [Paddlewise] How and when to speak up

rdiaz_at_ix.netcom.com wrote:
> 
>BIG SNIP< 
> So some questions:
> 
> 1.  Should one speak up always when confronted with such situations of
> pretty off-the-mark paddling approaches?  I don't mean talking with
> someone who is wearing a farmer john when you think the situation calls
> for a full suit or not having spare paddles etc. i.e. incremental
> differences rather than wholesale ones.  I mean something very basic
> like seeing some one with jeans and windbreakers in Northeast paddling
> in December.

I sometimes wonder if telling people what is good for them isn't counter 
productive, much of the times.

People are snowed under with rules, legistation, laws, and orances sp?, 
until most just want a tiny bit of say so in what they do. I would guess 
paddling is one of those things.

I'm not suggesting that there are right ways or safe ways to do it, just 
that sometimes being able to make a mistake or two is part of the 
learning curve. ..and if it's fatal, well..it was that persons choice.

If someone sees everyone doing something one way and decides to do it 
someother way, don't you think maybe it was a concious thought?

I can only conpare this to the motorcycle helment debate. Most would 
agree that a helment will protect your head..? , but I have seen people 
blasting along the hyways with one on and wearing shorts, no shirt, 
thongs, and have some little thing on the back, barefooted and a halter 
top. Got them helments on tho! :-(

If the kayaking communty wants to have laws that says you have to dress a 
certain way and carry certain things, well fine. You still can't 
legislate common sence or even half way good judgement calls.

My personal opinion is to help pass on help and information to those that 
ask, but don't try to cram it down those that likely don't.

I've been told to dress for emersion. I know that, I've been in freezing 
water and work at not repeating the exsperance. I've also had 93 stitches 
in my face from a bike wreck, but I still won't wear a helment.

If some clown came up to me at the lake and told me I wasn't dressed 
corectly.., on a good day I would just smile and walk away.

I guess I just say lighten up or work to pass laws. They seem to be the 
American way.

James, wouldn't have done anything if I'd waited for proper 
instruction(or approval)

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