Back in the days when dirt was new, children learned to navigate using map and compass. Parents would go on extensive hikes for the joy of discovering nature at its finest. What ever happened to that? Well, besides city folks having little idea what a compass is, there's just not much interest anymore. Of course, there is the fun of Geocaching--where you use GPS to find certain hiding places with little trinkets. But, it's a lot like playing a videogame where a mini-map is always available. But, at least you get out and hike around to find the little boxes where the treasured trinkets are found.
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I've taught my kids how to read maps, and am actually surprised how rare that skill now is. Pull out an actual paper map of a city, give it to someone, and ask them to find a certain street intersection. It's incredible how few people can actually complete the task (if you're one who can, then let me give you a high five!). I realize it's totally easy to get out your cellphone and pull up your exact location in seconds, but what if your phone is gonzo and you have to actually work it out yourself?
I think skills which do not rely on electronics are more important now than ever before. We shouldn't rely on modern convenience so much that we forget how to operate without them. It's probably safe to say very few people in industrial societies could feed themselves with basic tools (no, I'm not talking a credit card in the supermarket). I've always wanted to learn how to make fire without a lighter.
What about you? Are there any skills you wish you had? Well, what are you waiting for? Go do it!
- M
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