Because It's Friday
5 hours ago
Thursday, June 13, 2013
The linchpin of preps
A linchpin is that little pin that keeps the wheels from falling off -both in actuality and metaphorically.
Everyone who's at all into being prepared has their pet prep. For some it's all about security. They may become a bit over prepared in the gun department. Of course, if someone comes to shoot you and you don't have a gun, you are drastically under prepared.
For some it's all about their bug out vehicle. There are some amazing ones out there. Anyone who grew up liking cars and trucks will be temped by the quest for the baddest bug out vehicle.
Then there's food. One well know survival blogger is big on 3 years of food storage, as that's what you need before you achieve 5 years of food. I like to eat so having a lot of meals packed away isn't bad. Really nice to have a lot of food when 5 friends and relatives stop in for a 5 year visit. The hope is that they'll move on after eating cracked wheat month after month.
One of my biggies is potable water. Three very uncomfortable days without it and you are dead. So I'm all about having a secure supply and good water filtration.
The list could go on and on, but I won't. Suffice it to say there are lot of important preps and everyone has a favorite for most important. We tend to focus on those we like best.
Consider that there may be something even more important than the stuff you own. Even more important than your knowledge and skills. Adaptability. Things never go down the way we plan or expect.
The guy with a great survival shelter, stocked to the max, may suddenly lose it in a divorce -or a fire. (the divorce is nastier as fire might spare something) You could have the perfect prepper set up, but find yourself thousands of miles away and unable to get home. That's when the ability to quickly assess the situation and adapt to it is crucial.
So if I have to pick a linchpin, it would be adaptability. One never knows what the universe might deliver.
A buddy of mine says he isn't too sure if there is a god, but feels certain that there must be a devil. There must be a powerful supernatural force against him as all the crap that has come his way is far outside random chance. He should be grateful. The guy's gotten really good at rolling with the punches. Practice, practice, practice.
-Sixbears
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Your point is valid. As for your friend, remind him that for every action (or force) there's an equal and opposite reaction. Therefore, if there's a devil, there has to be a god!
ReplyDeleteHe's jokingly making a point. The guy did have a bad stretch there for a while.
DeleteWhen hurricane Irene paid this area a visit, I was surprised how many people did not cope very well. Then the following year, when Sandy came along, they still weren't prepared. Some never learn.
ReplyDeleteWonder how many times "100 year storms" will have to hit year after year for them to catch on.
DeleteAdaptability and attitude. If its one thing I've learned in living 50 years is a sense of humor is important if you want to retain your sanity and remaining out of jail.
ReplyDeleteIf I didn't laugh I'd have to cry.
DeleteKnowledge and skills, yessir. The most important preps are those of the mind.
ReplyDeleteMost portable too.
DeleteThe basis of Darwin's theory is that adaptability is what helps organisms survive when others die off.
ReplyDeleteI have to be one of the most adaptable people I know and that is not bragging.
I guess always being broke when it counts and having a natural affinity for all things mechanical has saved my bacon many times.
Some of the things I have repurposed and modified to suit my needs have surprised even myself.
I am also very personable and tend to get along with just about anyone who isn't a certified psychopath.
It's amazing what a nod and a smile can accomplish with a perfect stranger.
People who don't have these qualities are at a distinct disadvantage when thrown out of their comfort zone.
Good skills to have. It's surprising how strangers will open open up with just a bit of small talk.
DeleteAmen on the adaptability. I also see a lot of people "afraid" to adapt. For example, afraid to leave an unsatisfactory job because they are afraid to adapt to, perhaps, less money or prestige or learning something new. It does take courage to adapt. I have held my breath and jumped many times for different situations. I might have about wet my pants a few times, but I'm still above ground, well-fed and can't complain:)Practice, Practice, Practice.
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