Re: [Paddlewise] Unreasonable fear

In a message dated 3/13/00 3:09:47 AM, 6075_at_ij.net writes:

<< The odd thing about all this is that I knew in my mind that I was in no 
real
danger... We had practiced all the techniques, wet exit, single recovery, dual
rescue, etc. I am a very strong swimmer, and I also felt comfortable with the
training I had received. I was just gripped with an unreasonable fear that I
couldn't overcome. >>

    I would be amazed if every PaddleWiser that read your account didn't feel 
very deeply for you as they relived their own moments of panic on the water. 
It was much too easy for me to empathize with you as I read your story. I 
have had moments of panic (sometimes a full trip's worth) that seamed equally 
unfounded and anyone who pushes themselves has been in conditions above and 
beyond their skill level. 
    It's a shame that you were put in a boat beyond your comfort level. Given 
your height any boat will be less stable for you than for a shorter person 
since your center of gravity is higher. Narrow boats sometimes require direct 
paddle work to maintain balance. This techniques are normally beyond the 
beginner's abilities. The trip leader should have been much more sensitive to 
your comfort level with that boat.
    I hope you have the chance to push yourself in benign conditions so you 
can overcome whatever fear is pushing your buttons. Maybe in the summer you 
can find a small lake to play in rough water to help take the edge off.  Best 
of luck.

Jed

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