The boat ramp chaos thread made me think. A couple of weeks ago we were out a Lake Mohave. Inconsiderate non-thinkers were everywhere. I was getting really pissed off with other boaters doing all those things we all complain about. BUT.....I knew I had to change when my 20 year old son opened up a can of profanity to another boater that thought he would aim for us and then 50 feet away change directions. I knew that my getting pissed and complaining to all on board my boat set that whole episode off.
So, the Seadoos that continually flew past me 25 ft away at WOT with a rider down happened to be hanging out in a cove. I pulled in - my wife started telling me to leave them alone...but I paid no attention....I pulled up and calmly, nicely said...I wanted you to know I was really nervous when you rode by several times because I had a rider down and couldn't tell if you saw the rider or not. Perhaps next time you could steer a little further away. They apologized and said thanks. Hmm? Okay.
Following week at Lake Castaic. A guy doing circles pulling a tube first behind me then passing me and doing it in front of me. Okay, tried again, politely called him over and said - he I don't want you to get hurt or a ticket - the lake has a direction and its confusing to other boaters when you do that. He said sorry and thanks. Hmm?
Don't think it will work every time but I did realize if I want my kids to be polite and handle things well, I better put up or shut-up.
Just remind me next time someone is following my rider....
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