Rick, I agree that to err on the side of safety is preferable. I also
tend to be a major gear freak, there is never enough toys. However I
also like to know the limits of my gear, and how to properly use them.
Survival is a frame of mind where you know that ultimately it is up to
you to use your gear to achieve your goal. Hopefully most of our goals
are to have a good time, and not suffer an injury that would spoil the
fun.

Most of the kayakers I have met here trully enjoy the experience, and
are not just doing it for bravado. So I have to be careful that I am
not preaching to the choir. On the other hand I have found that it is
often wise to stop, step back, and ask myself the question; Why am I
doing this? and sometimes I have even surprised myself. TnT