i think that everything i've learned about etiquette in the water, i've learned in the water. a lot was learned from observation and, like everybody at one point or another, i've also been schooled a few times.
when you're really in the wrong, it can be kind of embarrassing. i remember going over each incident in my mind thinking about how i might have done things differently. now, with the passage of time, i feel really grateful for the folks who called me out. yeah, some of them were nicer about it than others – but you can’t just read about this shit in books.
when the shoe’s on the other foot, however, it’s kinda weird. i usually don’t say anything, cause i’m not into being a regulator. i just wanna surf. i don’t paddle out to play referee. i expect people to be responsible and know what’s up.
i’ve had friends tell me: “you gotta say something, or they’ll never learn”.
so… I’ve been trying now and again with mixed results. some people are real apologetic and say things like “thanks man” or "my bad" – but who knows if it registers? today, after being dropped in on by the same leashless hipster 3 times in a row, i paddled up to him and said something. he gave me so much attitude, and acted like such an ass, i was left wondering if i should have even bothered.
it's probably what i get for surfing on the sabbath, but
what would jesus do?
