Wayneburg, I think you have hit on the point, this life is an Odyssey, much like the one Odysseus had on the way back from the Trojan war in Homer's tale. We have many little adventures along the way, several of which make us feel like we have no control but throughout it all we can remain grounded and centered. Some have religious faith, other have faith and family, while others adhere to a set of self-derived principles.

I feel my PSK is a manifestation of my desire to survive the physical so that I can enjoy the metaphysical/spiritual aspects of life. It is a tool for controlling the future(s) and simultaneously a symbol of my surrender to the idea that the future is uncertain -and that I must prepare for it. One can never be completely prepared for every possible contingency. I don't think being prepared is the end of the journey- preparing is the journey. It just may be that we learn more through preparation than we do from a proving event.

The PSK is a layer in my preparedness onion. I also, have food storage, fuel storage, clothing, a rainy day fund, exercise, education, prayer, meditation, etc. Each aspect of preparation leads to goal of being self-reliant and physically, emotionally, and spiritually balanced and fulfilled. It's a lifelong journey. Recognize the PSK for what it is- a small part (albeit a very important part if it keeps you alive) of this preparedness continuum(s).