Re: newbie paddler

in article addnk15j01dsc9vcgc3v4dine8adbsnde2@xxxxxxx, Mr. C at
fakeemail@xxxxxxxxxxx wrote on 10/11/05 9:09 AM:

> Cheryl,
>
> There have been a lot of good suggestions made here and it sounds like
> you are well on the way to pursuing your goal. As you read the dialog
> between Brian and KMAN, you can see that some people prefer to learn
> entirely on their own and others don't mind or even prefer getting
> help from others.
>
> I, like everybody else, started out as an arm paddler but have learned
> to paddle efficiently from reading and watching videos. I would make
> an analogy of riding a bike where you learn by yourself and just push
> with your feet on the ground to propel the bike. But with some
> outside help, you discover the peddals and an amazing increase in
> speed, handling, stamina, and ... fun! I have found the same is true
> with kayaking. In KMANs case, he might discover that by himself in a
> few minutes, a few hours, or maybe a few years. But as I look at it,
> life is short and paddlling days are relatively few.

Yes, but it is not necessary to go beyond your own ability to observe and
experiment in order to improve. The common assumption is often that learning
is something to rush through in order to arrive at enjoyment. Well, if you
like sex that last about 30 seconds, then I guess that's the right
philosophy! Personally I find the journey is just as important as the
destination, and that goes for paddling too :-)

> Another thing happens when you look for help outside yourself. You
> begin to trust others by learning from them. That, in turn, will
> hopefully make you willing to share your experiences and learning
> stories with others. It adds a new dimension to kayaking that just
> plain makes it more fun.

Oh, I'm all for sharing experiences with others. Do it all the time! But
that's different from surrendering your ability to learn without outside
help, which seems to me is a common mindset.

> Finally, as you learn, be humble but do not become discouraged. Things
> take time. Whatever you learn, you must try to make it enjoyable and
> even fun.
>
> Lou

Learning is exciting. The problem is some people think it is something to
avoid or get past as quickly as possible.


.

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