Personal Responsiblity

Personal Responsibility is huge in my book, (that is why I capitalized both words). Nobody is perfect, and really no one expects anyone to be perfect. So when you make a mistake, APOLOGIZE, and take RESPONSIBILITY for it. Don't ignore it, pass the buck, or make excuses, nobody cares about excuses, and yes, sometimes an explanation is asked for, but don't give it in lieu of an apology. Nobody can argue with a good heartfelt, "I am sorry, it was my fault, and I would like to fix it."

So lately, I am on a huge soap box with the whole Abby Sutherland, the great 16 year old sailing around the world thing. I just can't get behind her cause. This is not a personal accomplishment for her, this is a attention getting thing for her. I am not even going to touch the whole reality TV thing. But rather focus on the fact that the whole point was to win the title of the youngest person to sail solo around the world without stopping. The girl started her trip knowing it was not the best time because it would put her in the Indian Ocean during the worst time of year, but because delays kept her from starting the trip at a better time, and delaying more would mean not getting the title of youngest, she threw caution to the wind, and and went anyways. (Pardon the puns, they are really not intentional).
So now that the Indian Ocean taught her who was boss, she has racked up over a million dollars in rescue cost. And do you think her or her family are taking any responsibility for the cost??? Hell NO! Her mother is quoted as saying they don't have that much money. Really? They can certainly afford all the sail boats, and 2 trips around the world, but when it comes to saving their kids lives, all of a sudden they are broke?
and Abbby??? She claims that she is not a typical teenager, and everyone is judging her by teenager standards. She has been sailing since she was born and knows what she is doing out there. Hmm... here is my take. She is a typical teenager! and it shows in her attitude that its all about her! So she is experienced and talented in sailing, OK, so what? There are a lot of teens that have a God given talent or have worked hard to gain experience to pursue their dreams (just look at rodeos, many greats in this sport are under 18 and have been doing it all their lives).
Just because she has the talent, experience and the skill, does not mean she proceeds with something potentially dangerous and then relies on others for help when she gets into trouble. Rescue missions are dangerous and expensive. Her and her family need to realize this and take responsibility for her actions.
Especially in these times of economic hardships, a government should not be expected to foot the bill for someone that risked her life to achieve a title and a personal dream.
And I don't want to come off as a dream killer. But seriously, if its your dream then it also needs to be your responsibility. Not in one interview that I have read, did I read a quote from Abby or her family, thanking the rescuers, acknowledging their horrible error in judgement, or taking any responsibility for rescue cost. Just passing the buck and let some other government absorb the cost her this 16 year old's dream.