Re: [Paddlewise] Safety in Recreational Kayaks

From: Niels Blaauw <niels.blaauw_at_wanadoo.nl>
Date: Fri, 19 Apr 2002 23:03:40 -0700
"Dickson, Dana A." wrote:
> 
> I do think I have a right to say that I will not paddle with someone who
> refuses to wear their PFD.  I have a right to say I will not go on a trip
> with someone who does not have the gear they need to take care of
> themselves. 

I agree 100 percent. I have said that everybody should have the right to
die any way he wants, but that does not mean he has to do it in my face.

I think you should be clear on your reasons, because you will be asked
for them. If I force someone to wear a PFD (and I do!) he will ask
"Why?". My answer is: "You will ruin my day if you drown, so if you want
to drown, do it somewhere else."

Whether someone has a responsibility to his family, I'd say "yes", but
to his friends... We can define what we want from our own friendships,
but let everybody define that for himself. Someone that tries to take
away my right to die is no friend of mine.

Niels.

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Received on Fri Apr 19 2002 - 15:12:39 PDT

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