On Sailing...
My reasons for sailing are probably better understood by people here than most other forums...
I sail for relaxation, doing something that in the wrong hands can be nasty and sometimes fatal.
I enjoy the beauty of being away from politically correct rule-makers, knowing I am absolutely accountable for my and my passenger's safety and enjoyment. Out there, there is no Mom, no OSHA, no workman's compensation program. There is only my checklist of 20 perils and for each - two preventions and four alternative methods of safe recovery.
I enjoy knowing my limits and staying well within them. I have and will cancel a trip if I am not 100% sure of it's safety margin.
There is a curve to the sail, a shape like a bird, or a girl.... that is its own perfect shape, not yours, that you learn to love, and with time you know instinctively.
You learn the grace of a softly spoken command carried out with competence and near perfect timing. When all are proud of that accomplishment knowing the command is not in service of the ego of the captain, but for the awesome majesty of teamwork.
You learn to take ice water in the face, a rope burn, a bruise with a shrug, knowing you will find pleasure in reflection over a cup of rum at sundown.
In 14 years no trip has been the same. Each presents a new test and a new wonder.
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