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The Joy of Paddling
The sport of kayaking has enriched the lives of all who have picked up a paddle. Recently a customer who had just purchased a kayak called me at the store. He has a rather dry sense of humor, and over the phone it was difficult to sense his mood.
“Irene, I have only one regret about buying my kayak.”
I didn't know what the problem might be, and thoughts started racing through my head about what was wrong.
“I wish that I had gotten a kayak 20 years ago! I’ve been out paddling every evening since I picked it up.”
I was relieved that his “problem” was that he was having a great time with his new kayak.
This story is retold by many different people in many different ways.
- Some love the solitude of being on the water in the early morning before the business of the day begins.
- Others delight in the beauty of the sunset and find relaxation at the end of the day.
- Families have a great time being with each other. Parents realize that their children are a fleeting treasure. They want to spend time with them and expose them to the wonders of nature. Water fights and new adventures are happy memories that become engraved in their hearts.
- Then there are the thrill seekers, those who live on adrenaline and tall tales. Their excitement is contagious and uplifting. They grab life by the paddle and go for it!
Water -- the main component of our bodies.
Water -- the inspiration of our souls.
Water -- the rejuvenation of our spirits.
No wonder we need to be near it, on it, or in it! We can’t live without it.
As with all things, enjoying the water has responsibilities. Before starting the sport of kayaking, it’s always a good idea to take a lesson. Not only do you learn proper paddling technique, but you also learn about the hazards of water. As paddlers we have a responsibility to the folks with whom we paddle. If a problem arises, everyone should be able to assist the one in distress.
Paddlers also have a responsibility to the environment. “Leave No Trace” is a philosophy and lifestyle adopted by people who are aware of the fragile nature of our environment. When we are out paddling, our kayaks leave no water trail of where we have been. There should also be no trace of society’s by-products in the water or on the land. Paddlers should make sure that our rivers and shores are clean and free of debris. This is essential to the health of the watershed and all its inhabitants, including humans. Educated paddlers are the backbone of the sport and promoters of a clean and healthy environment.
By educating ourselves in the sport and in environmental issues, paddlers will be able to share the joy of paddling with others.
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