I do this because
- it's sad to die for a dumb reason
- because I have kids I want to protect
- because people count on me to help them
- because it's a moral obligation to my fellow man to be able to help those who can't help themselves.
- because I like flashlights
- because it makes me feel like I have some level of control over things.

One thing I've noticed is that I need to actually USE my survival skills for real for this all to sink in. That's why I'm a Volunteer Fireman, because that's the way I get into situations where I literally NEED to be "equipped to survive" not just sit here and type about it.

I learn the difference between gear that's interesting versus gear that you need when you're in a dangerous situation. I've learned that you dont' want to be alone in a survival situation if at all possible.

I do all of this, the emergency planning, the equipment, all of it because it just feels right for me.