I don't have kids, but if I did...

I just do not understand parents who let their 16 year old (or younger) sons and daughters fly/sail/swim/float/glide or whatever around the world SOLO.

What's up with that? I mean, is setting that kind of record really worth it? Are kids today so much more mature than I was when I was sixteen that this is a reasonable endeavor?

I know I am probably being myopic, in that I do not have children, so can't know how it must feel to want to see them pursue a dream. But really, wouldn't it be my JOB as a parent to say "Gee, honey, I know you REALLY want to set the world record for being the first 6 year old to navigate the underground lava beds in the Indian Ocean, but I REALLY want you to get out of first grade alive."

(OK I do zero research, so I am not sure there even ARE underground lava beds in the Indian Ocean, but if that's what you are focusing on you've missed my point and can stop reading now.)

Yikes, when I read about young Abby going missing last week on her solo sail around the world, I know I should have felt worry about her safety, but all I felt was anger at her parents for squandering the gift of a child.

The 13 year old who is climbing all the world's tallest peaks is at least doing so under the supervision of his dad and other experienced climbers. I can get on board with that. I may not love the idea, but at least if he starts to hyperventilate or have hypoxia or some other hyp- thing happens, his parent is close by to make sure he gets help.

Ok enough of a rant. I just don't get it and I never will, so enough said. All I know is a Dog Named Fish wears a life jacket when she swims in the pool. Call me overprotective and nuts. Like that's really gonna hurt my feelings. ;-)