Today was another one of those days. Between the drama at work and crazy people on the highway, now I get it. Now I understand why so many people live away from society, “off the grid”, as it were.

For those who have ever watched those shows on living in Alaska, away from the big cities and in the wilderness, I do see the point. How nice would it be to pack it up and head somewhere to just look at mountains and streams everyday? Nice, except for the snow, bears and using out houses a mile from your home. Moving to an isolated island would work too. Dream on!

It is a sad state of affairs when facing a grizzly becomes more attractive than being around nasty, self-centered people. Many of these transplants say they want a more healthy and natural way of living. I do agree, that getting away from negative forces will help with that situation. However, there is always a price to pay. Most of them don’t take their belongings, realizing it just isn’t possible to do so. You can count me out since I worked hard for my stuff, and I’m only leaving it when I die!

Many of these people also have some money to play with. But money does you no good when you have no running water or electric. Hence, living off the grid. You have to be a tough nut to not crack living in that kind of environment. I already informed my husband, that was not me. As much as I can’t stand being around people at times, I still need to know they are within close proximity.

These off the grid folks do occasionally have to go for supplies and such. Taking their snowmobile to the nearest train stop can be an ordeal. They carry rifles with them for when they encounter wild animals. Yeah, that sounds like nirvana to me. Many have done this for years and are experts at it. I always say to my husband, what happens when they get sick. Can’t call an ambulance or dial 911 and expect anyone there in 10 minutes. This is the stuff I think about. It takes away from the adventure part of it, I know,  but I still have an appendix!

I suppose that most don’t think about these things when making the decision to go off the grid. It’s a way of life, not suited for many, and only a hard-nosed few at that. We all love nature to a certain extent. Visiting certain spots is nothing like residing there 24/7.  We all take the luxuries for granted when we lose them temporarily. These people gave them up voluntarily and many happy to do so.

So hats off to all those hearty souls who hunt and fish for food, defend themselves against the wilds of nature, and have no issue with walking in the dark to relieve themselves in a 2×4 wooden box with a pot. You are better men and women than most of us will ever be!