One would (or should) be truly happy if they went through life without any regrets. To never feel remorse or sadness for any action they took, or not squandering any part of their life already lived — leaving only excitement for what the future will bring.
I had never owned a boat or watercraft (surfboards don’t count). I had never really thought about owning a boat. Maybe a canoe or kayak But a boat usually requires a motor, and a motor means work; or at least maintenance. Many of my friends have owned boats. And as one told me, “The second happiest day of your life is the day you bought your boat; the happiest is the day you sold it.” Seems that there is a lot of angst during the boat owing period.
What’s Up With That?
I must start by saying I usually hike alone. And by hiking alone, I mean going to places where I do not expect to see other people. That is a prime consideration for most of my trips. Now, I do not want to give the impression that by doing a lot of solo hiking I am especially brave or skilled. When you break it down, backpacking is just walking with your house on your back. Sure you need some skills, but it is not a big deal. Lots of people backpack. Mankind has been hiking since the dawn of time. It is nothing special – other than knowing when and how to avoid trouble.
I am not a trekking pole advocate. Folks may counter this by saying I do not know how to properly use them, and this may be true. If a hiker has a physical limitation, they may be of benefit. Additionally if a hiker is expert in their use and maintains a natural walking motion and stride, and correct posture trekking poles maybe advantageous.
