Driving Jet Skis and Opposable Thumbs

In the summertime, we like to ride jet skis. Our dog even likes to hop aboard. And it's no wonder, his name, after all, is Captain. I have no doubt, in fact, that, if he had opposable thumbs, he'd jump on and take off all on his own. Our friends have a Jet Ski they keep at our house, so sometimes, instead of riding together on ours, we'll each drive our own, as Driving your own Jet Ski, and just being along for the ride, are two very different experiences.

When you are driving your own jet ski, you are responsible for your own, and your passengers safety. Since they steer from the rear, and not the front, like a car does, the maneuverability is much different. That's why most states now require a Boater's safety Course, in order to operate both Jet Skis and Boats. Thankfully, our state is one of them.

When you are driving your own Jet Ski, you can see first hand what is coming your way--the waves you're approaching, and the possible obstacles in your path.You know what bumps you may be approaching, and can brace yourself better than your passenger, who can't see nearly as well, sitting behind the one who's driving.

As a passenger, you are just along for the ride. Oh, it's still exhilarating and adventuresome, but you just don't know what's coming, and it can be a much bumpier ride that way, and for some of us, a little anxiety producing, because your own judgement is after all, your own, and anothers just can't be predicted.

When you are a child, being a passenger is a way of life, and of course, a precursor to being the driver. In the beginning, you know where you stand. Dad and Mom are the Cheauffers, and you are the passenger, firmly belted into your car seat. The thought of driving never enters your mind, you're just happy you're going to Mc Donalds.

As you get older, however, the urge to drive your own watercraft can't be denied. And shouldn't, really. It's a natural progression, and a step towards adulthood. If it's denied, we are left as passengers on someone elses excursion. Not our own. And we are each entitled to our own excursion, fueled by our own voice, which is the gasoline. And since we Do have opposable thumbs, we are able to jump on and take off all on our own. We can ride along side other Jet Skis out there in the blue, but if we'd rather ride in the bay, than in the ocean, we need to ride in the bay, and it's not only OK, it's imperative that We do.