For those of you fellow preppers out there, how many times have you heard this from your family, friends, or neighbors when they start talking about a disaster happening and they plan on living unprepared?:
“I'll just go to [insert your name here]'s house!”
Chances are that even for those of us who live quietly, trusted acquaintances come to rely on us for extra batteries, food or water storage tips, or recommendations for gear & resourceful websites/blogs to visit for more info, still like to joke about this preparedness. Heck, there's even a video-making knucklehead on YouTube that makes statements to promote the typical mob mentality. I don't mention his name here because he's a troll…remember, DO NOT FEED THE TROLLS. People like David Sarti are planning to keep those kind of thugs at a distance and so should you. I suggest that the best way to do that is to develop your safety network. Learn more about human psychology. Get to know the body's fight/flight response intimately. Build your endurance abilities. Get plugged-in with other like-minded folks who are trustworthy, deliver on their commitments, and live quietly. If you are fortunate enough to have hi-speed teammates, then good for you. If you've got eyes and ears for that last sentence, keep them safe.
This week, I've been interacting with trusted friends on a particular social network. My initial topic was earthquake vulnerability in the Southern California area. One particular friend made a joking comment about coming to my house at the “appropriate” time. Relative to security and sizing up breathing liabilities/threats, he will be a valuable asset. In other words, I would hate to be under this guy's boots. But I made the passing remark,
“Lunch ain't free here!”
I say that statement to convey two points: (1) don't expect freebies, and (2) you'll need to productively contribute in order to enjoyably consume. The sobering thought that supersedes all preps and training though, is this: I hope to be fortunate enough, along with my family, to survive whatever ordeal will require a focused appeal to such resources and training.
There is nothing wrong with people coming to seek help. It is a fundamental survival behavior. There is nothing wrong with setting boundaries and communicating acceptable/intolerable behaviors, or even exacting contributions of otherwise freeloaders. Those who “get it” have already begun dealing with such scenarios before they materialize. Balance is crucial. Fear is deconstructive as a motivator. Even with tons of guns, ammo, and an army, those who have the mental and psychological fortitude & poise in order to deal with situations and people-especially when outcomes appear bleak- will fare better than those whose deficits limit operational self-reliance and appropriate intercourse.
-David SafeWater
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