Re: [Paddlewise] Pick up the tab etc.

Ronnie wrote:

> Why do you continue to live in society if it binds you down so?

How can I improve society by leaving it? OK, don't answer that. :)

>You are one of the top contributors to this forum, yet you tend to disagree 
>with most of
> us.  If I felt so strong about things as you do, I would pack a few 
> essentials
> into  my kayak and slip off from everyone, including family and go live on 
> my
> own in  that great private place you tease us with.

Yes, I do disagree with some of you (I don't know about "most"). Why would 
you suggest that I run away from such a stimulating challenge? If you decide 
to follow your own advice I hope you will find your own private place 
though. :)

 > If you go, take a Bible along to read and maybe someday you will 
understand
> that man is not an island unto himself.

If I go I will take Spinoza's Ethics and, perhaps some books by Neil Postman 
and maybe Ulysses (I never have been able to finish it). You might consider 
reading them yourself to understand the meaning of being part of society 
rather than a slave to it.

>Believe it or not, humankind needs  each  other.

Why would I not believe that? Do you think that because I don't want you (or 
other self-styled protectors and self-appointed protectors of the public) 
meddling in my affairs that I don't like people? I just don't like meddling 
people. I consider your comments insulting and un-Christian as well as 
illogical.

>Way down deep you are reaching out to others whether or not you know  it.

I DO know I am reaching out. I am reaching out to my fellow paddlers in 
hopes they will get the message about wilderness conservation, risk 
homeostasis, personal responsibility and lots of other things. Sadly, many 
harden thier hearts and minds to the message.


>Others and myself will pray for you whether you like it or not,  and be
> concerned for your life. Amen.

That is very nice of you. In return, I will pray for you.  Not every day 
mind you,. Just in between praying for world peace, conservation, abused 
animals, abused children, an end to stupidity, and end to religious 
intolerance, etc. etc. etc etc.

> I say all this with a Cristian heart, no hate, just love,

I say this all with a Pantheist heart filled with love of this universe and 
in the belief that we are all worthwhile regardless of our religious 
beliefs. Glad to hear you don't hate me. I prefer, however, a slightly less 
oppressive love.

I hope you will pay attention to Richard Culpepper's response to your post. 
He hits the nail squarely and, surprise, Richard and I don't always agree 
but I like to flatter myself that we stimulate each other. He stimulates my 
thinking anyway.

Cheers

John Winters
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