Have A Seat At Our Table…
A magnificently beautiful awakening occurs in a soul when one feels they have been met with acceptance. Some seek it, some offer it, and many of us look to do both. Regardless of who anyone is – their social status, career achievements, outward appearance of confidence, ego, et cetera – I’ve always found it intriguing the inherent need to still be accepted on some level. And it’s perfectly okay. It has also been observed one can be welcomed yet not quite fully accepted in some circles. There is a difference between being “welcomed” and “accepted.” But why should there be? We all want to feel welcomed, but do we then seek acceptance as well? What matters more? And do we place higher value on one over the other?
Okay, I’m getting in deep here..I’ll drop the psychology discussion for now. The reason for these opening thoughts is since finding myself in the marine industry in 2009, meeting Bob Bitchin in Jack London Square in 2011, and now getting involved in this fine publication, I am continuously intrigued by the dynamics which make boaters such a diverse community, yet curious why there are so many segments which still seem to be seeking acceptance, or are not welcomed among others. Ultimately, boaters are all bound by one common thread: the love of water and the need to be on it. So, why then should one’s appearance, the size or condition of their boat, or the amount of nautical miles under their belt make any difference in where they should be accepted or welcomed? If you answered, “it shouldn’t,” then you are damn right. It shouldn’t. But unfortunately, in some areas, it does. But not here. Everyone is welcome at our table.
