I've been following this thread all though its entirety. I've
offered my opinions and experiences. I've argued with Joe because I
don't agree with him. I think he's being overly concerned about an issue
that is not widespread enough to warrant the concern. Out of 6,000
members in AERC, if there are only a few 5 year olds riding long distances, I
hardly think this constitutes an epidemic and cause for concern. Joe is
entitled to his opinion, but I object to his determination to force his
opinion on the rest of the 5,999 members in AERC. I've tried to think
WHY he is so determined to push through another rule, and while the subject of
his proposed rule is not totally unreasonable, I really think there is some
other reason for his determination. It's the same reason that many
politicians push for THEIR agendas.....recognition for a noble deed, and
some sort of power to be gained from accomplishing the same. Since we
live in a democratic society, and we are supposed to be acknowledged the
wisdom to live our own lives as we see fit without impinging on others rights
to do the same, I think we should just leave things as they are. I
haven't heard of any serious damage resulting from children riding endurance,
and while I'm sure it's perfectly possible, I believe governing
bodies' attempts to protect our children from ANY dangers results in
frustrated parents and children and stifled maturity. I
also realize that anyone could be clobbered by a meteorite falling from
the sky at any time. We take chances every day just by living.
I've had enough of this issue. I'm sure Joe won't give up his
opinion, and I certainly won't give up mine. But I will go to
considerable lengths to prohibit the passing of any rule that says parents
can't make judgments on when their children can ride endurance. The last
time I heard, parents were still considered the judges of how their children
were to be brought up. When governing bodies of any sort take over this
job, aided and abetted by the world's experts in any field, heaven help
us.
Barbara McCrary
