MANNERS AND OTHER MATTERS

The tranquil sailing club prior to departure (photo the author) I had a wonderful day yesterday.  My sister and her husband own a lovely power boat and they invited me to join them for a “Club Day”, when with other members of their Sailing Club we went to Garden Island, not far from Perth, to enjoy the ambiance of the island, it’s pristine waters, and each other’s company.   A boat follows us down the Swan River (photo the author) It was an opportunity to ask about the manners of sailing and what is expected from other sailors and what are established as “rules”. The rules are quite clear:  give way to vessels on the right of your vessel, power boats should give way to sail boats, boats should navigate a channel of water on the starboard side, etc. Lazy days...before a refreshing swim around the dinghy (photo the author) The etiquette, or manners are less clear, but as was explained to me, quite logical.  When in a small bay or inlet it is important to re...

The galahs, following a pecking order for feeding at the clam shell (photo the author) Another year is about to begin.  I am glad to be leaving this one behind. Despite some wonderful opportunities and experiences in the earlier part of the year, such as travel through the North Cook Islands in the South Pacific, even on the ghastly SV Discovery South Pacific Expedition ; and a lovely trip to France where I could practice my French language skills and indulge in the wonder of the markets, little towns and the landscapes of Brittany, the last quarter was one of sadness. "Is it your turn or mine to eat now?" (photo the author) But my own situation was rendered insignificant by the terrible suffering of people throughout the world this year; the violent impact of Mother Nature when she is angry; the fear of the persecuted; the anxiety about economic meltdown around the globe;  in Australia the devastation of bushfires and floods; and for two of my acquaintances th...