DavesMostMemorableExperiences.docVIP

Most Memorable Experiences Over the years people who have heard about my “Life List” ask me where my favorite places are, my favorite foods, flirtations with danger, how many broken bones or diseases I have contracted, anything unusual. Many people dream about traveling to exotic places, but become discouraged when they contemplate the “cost”, in time, money, and risk to their health and welfare. As a college professor I have observed that most young people have an over-active fear of failure. Maybe this is due to the negative reinforcement from taking so many examinations, trying to please parents, or impress their peers. I was never a slave to my Life List, it was simply a string of ideas about places I wanted to go and things I wanted to see, if and when the opportunity arose. I have discarded some of the goals after researching them, often discovering legal, financial or political restrictions. For instance, participation in a Mt. Everest climbing expedition would cost about $100,000. I have always tried to lead a balanced life, not one focused solely on myself. I’ll never forget reading about the anguish George Leigh Mallory caused his widow and young children after he died trying to climb the north side of Mt. Everest in 1924. Sometimes the risks associated with my Life List goals isn’t worth the emotional cost to my family. Well, enuf said. Here’s some of my bests memories, which are completely subjective, based on my own personal tastes. MOST EXCITING EXPERIENCES Catapulting and landing on an aircraft carrier Rowing a raft along the Colorado River through the 277 miles of rapids in the Grand Canyon Rowing a raft along the Owyhee River through a series of pristine gorges between Rome, Oregon and Owyhee Reservoir. Just like being a mountain man exploring the west in the 1820s. Low level flights with the Navy in Thailand, Oman and Panama. You really feel the sensation of speed and acceleration during low level flights using terrain maskin