A vision quest is not based on rational thought or ‘common sense’. One might argue that those who climb Everest, or other dangerous mountains lack sense. An astronaut roaring into space in device built by the lowest bidder may wonder how intelligent he’s being. Cops, firemen, soldiers, inner city teachers, and even farmers might wonder how much sense they have to put themselves in harm’s way, or to work a job for which they are unappreciated and poorly compensated.But without such tough people, we would not be the nation we are.Ms. Nayad is a role model for senior citizens everywhere. Because she swam that distance, a man or woman at a senior center may get up and walk to the rec room instead of waiting for a wheelchair. Because she never gave up, other people, old and young, may also rise up to face challenges which have defeated them in the past.If it is a lack of sense that is required in order to reach goals for which we set ourselves, then perhaps sense is overrated.Respectfully,C.
It doesn’t have to prove something to the world, or even to a small part of it.It comes from wanting to prove something within yourself. That her success will give her speaking engagements, book sales, and other material rewards is just how our culture works. But long before media, people went over the horizon just to see what was there… if anything.It’s like the old Harley Davidson slogan…“If I have to explain it to you, you’ll never understand.”http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qqVRBZO5gcRespectfully,C.
chazandru about 11 years ago
A vision quest is not based on rational thought or ‘common sense’. One might argue that those who climb Everest, or other dangerous mountains lack sense. An astronaut roaring into space in device built by the lowest bidder may wonder how intelligent he’s being. Cops, firemen, soldiers, inner city teachers, and even farmers might wonder how much sense they have to put themselves in harm’s way, or to work a job for which they are unappreciated and poorly compensated.But without such tough people, we would not be the nation we are.Ms. Nayad is a role model for senior citizens everywhere. Because she swam that distance, a man or woman at a senior center may get up and walk to the rec room instead of waiting for a wheelchair. Because she never gave up, other people, old and young, may also rise up to face challenges which have defeated them in the past.If it is a lack of sense that is required in order to reach goals for which we set ourselves, then perhaps sense is overrated.Respectfully,C.
pdchapin about 11 years ago
Our greatest glory is in spending a lifetime to do something of no value? The fact that it’s difficult doesn’t make it important.
chazandru about 11 years ago
It doesn’t have to prove something to the world, or even to a small part of it.It comes from wanting to prove something within yourself. That her success will give her speaking engagements, book sales, and other material rewards is just how our culture works. But long before media, people went over the horizon just to see what was there… if anything.It’s like the old Harley Davidson slogan…“If I have to explain it to you, you’ll never understand.”http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qqVRBZO5gcRespectfully,C.
Dtroutma about 11 years ago
Congratulations to her!
It is amazing how so many can’t see the courage to set a goal, and achieve it, despite potential danger or discomfort to oneself!
To accept challenge IS the better nature of the human spirit, reaching for improvement, and “personal best”. (even when dangerous)
Interesting those critical of Nyad, so well define themselves as “chickenhawk”.