[Paddlewise] The PFD discussion from a rookie's point of view

Folks, I've read some of the PFD discussion..... deleted most before
opening. Wanna know what a rookie thinks?  I think the discussion is up in
the ozone layer, well above the experience of most paddlers. We don't have
the gizillion miles logged on the water with numerous experiences in all
types of hair raising situations  - WE'RE STILL LEARNING. But, we all -- you
and I alike -- represent paddling every time we talk to a friend, carry a
boat on our vehicle, launch, or browse through an outfitters store (or
worse, end up on the news for something we did or didn't do).

Therefore, I'm going to wear my PFD even in 2 foot water, 10 feet from
shore, when the water is like glass.  And where do you think I'll get an
education so I can join discussions like this with pertinent information and
opinion...... from you guys, the experienced "mentors" (whether you
recognize and accept it, or not) as well as personal experiences. So, what
example do you want to set for the rookies like me? PFD.... or no PFD?  It
shouldn't matter that there may be situations when an individual can choose
not to wear one - they still represent paddling to everyone who ever finds
out about your choice.  Do we want the image of saftey first, or safety as a
choice?  And remember, the average person, regardless of cirumstances at the
time of the choice, will equate PFD with Safety and no PFD with no safety.
It's been drilled into us for years!  We don't understand the nuances!

When and if I get to a level when I can consider myself able to hold my own
in these discussions, I'm still going to wear a PFD in 2 foot water, 10 feet
from shore, when the water is like glass, BECAUSE A ROOKIE MAY BE WATCHING
AND EMULATING MY EXAMPLE!!!!!

To me this is not unlike a professional athlete. Sure, he can chose to act
and think however he/she wishes, and endorse whatever product he/she wishes,
just like you can choose to wear or not wear a PFD, but in the end, kids are
looking up to this individual and treating them as a role model, just as
rookie paddlers look up to some of you folks.  Whether you asked for it or
not, are you going to accept the responsibility that comes with being a role
model and drive home the use of PFDs?

Here's a last example that might hit a little harder.... would you put a gun
to your head and pull the trigger while your child watches?  Even if you
knew, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that it was unloaded, and there was zero
risk to you whatsoever, what do you think you just taught your child who
looks to you for education and doesn't know all the other things that you
know?  Like the child, we see PFD or no PFD.  We don't see the circumstances
and subtle nuances.  

With all that said, and recognizing that the PFD is a choice each and every
time we wear it or toss it aside, and regardless of circumstances, isn't
there more to gain by wearing it than not wearing it?

Rick 

***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not
to be reproduced/forwarded outside PaddleWise without author's permission
Submissions:     PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net
Subscriptions:   PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net
Website:         http://www.paddlewise.net/
***************************************************************************