I've been watching the Discovery Channel show called "Man Vs. Wild" for several episodes now and I'm hooked. What appeals to me is the star "Bear Grylls" actually leads by example. Being a former Marine myself this type of leadership is what makes people come back. Showing people how it's done so they can be confident if and when they find themselves in a survival situation.

The TV show is very entertaining and informative but I caution viewers to not just rely on television shows but to enhance their knowledge of survival by reading. Go to your public library or book store and check out the edible plants book or poisonous snakes book. The goal is to try and educate yourself about survival - period.

When I was younger I would have to sit through a period of instruction about topic xyz and they were usually drawn out and made me fall asleep. At the very end of the lecture we were provided with equipment - equipment that I didn't know how to use because I wasn't really paying attention. From that point forward, I focused on every period of instruction I received especially when it had to do with me staying alive.

Because of this, I want others to learn from my lessons. Obtain the knowledge you need by reading, watching, and listening - then retain that knowledge by applying what you've learned immediately. Remember to take it a step at a time so that you don't overwhelm yourself and become discouraged.

The more you struggle now - the less you'll struggle then.