When you tell them, “We’re going to be on a boat in Mexico for six months,” people’s reactions vary widely. But typically, they fall into one of the following categories:
- People who think you are insane. They stammer, avoid eye contact, and look for a quick exit from the conversation. (Todd says this happened to him before we went sailing, but I think that was related to his ‘one day on, two days off’ showering schedule.)
- People who admire you for “following your bliss”, but who know that such a choice is not for them. These people are polite and encouraging, and we thank the gods for them, because someone has got to keep the home fires burning!
- People who harbor thoughts of a making a similar getaway. They get a faraway look in the eye, seem quiet for a moment, and then start asking you detailed questions about how to rent out your house.
- People who, despite their total lack of sailing skills, have a wild flash of inspiration that they should join you!
We got an interesting ‘application’ from someone in the latter category that I figured we should post as an example for those looking for crew positions. (more…)