The sad "erosion" of basic skills needed to stay alive is the result of the high-tech, suburban, wal-mart supercenter, fast food society we live in, in my humble opinion.. Our urbanized lives have all but eliminated the basic knowledge of what my Grandfather referred to as "woodsmanship" . The only jungle most people in our country have ever seen is one made of asphalt, and annoying lights that tell you when to walk, or stop...

I remember as a boy, the ability to make a fire in any sort of weather was a skill that was held in the highest regard. ( and i'm not talking about gasoline, or any other chemically assisted means ) Matches and tinder were the only thing available. Anyone skilled in this was looked upon reverently, and other kids hovered around them trying to learn how to do it themselves.

The same admiration was bestowed upon those who were skilled shots with rifle, bow, or slingshot.. As well as anyone who could make a good sturdy shelter, skillfully use a knike, or trap an animal.

Even the most mentally sluggish kid knew how to dress properly, carry water and at least 1 meal with him when heading into the local woods. It was considered common sense. But that was then and this is unfortunately, now....

Today people who have no experience/skills in the wild watch a wildlife/travel show on cable, or get revved up based on another persons experience and decide to head out "into the green" often resulting in disaster.

Sad....

Matt <img src="images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />