I held a Navigation class a few weeks ago. It was a very basic generalized class of compass and map parts and pieces, orientation of maps and location, basic plotting of position, simple navigation. I was once again struck by how foreign of a concept it is for people to break out a compass and paper map. Every class I have to try to find different ways to convey concepts and theory so people can equate what I am showing them. Invariably the light bulb clicks on, and then they are intermediate navigators the rest of their lives. Sort of like cross country skiing, short school, then you are progressing the rest of your life. BUT, only if you get out there and do it. Of all the perishable skills we teach, navigation seems to be the worst for not forgiving lack of practice or use. (Well, building a fire with two sticks is up there as well)
We see all types of compasses, all sorts of paper maps from huge aerial flight charts to road maps. They have their uses, but foot travel isn’t one of them. Have you actually tried to use your compass and does it work? Can all of your family or team use it? Do you understand it well enough to teach it to your group when they need a refresher?
We recommend you use your map and your compass – Daily! Why not? Get a spare (always useful) and keep it on your coffee table or desk and look, play with it each evening while sitting in front of the TV. Work your kids on it as well. (family bonding anyone? Beats the electronic device they would have their heads buried in otherwise).
We have students bring lenstatic compasses and road maps and think they were going to navigate across country – cause we have to avoid the zombies on the roadways, don’t you know. But these are cases of you don’t know what you don’t know until you get training, or practice, or actually take the darn things of their boxes and see how they work. When they try their compasses and look at the road maps, and then use ours, there is that click again – let there be light.
Come out and play, get out there and do it, go outside – whatever you can do, just do it. Your piece of mind will thank you and when your family can get home again, they will thank you!