The very act of climbing a mountain such as Everest indicates a desire to conquer, overcome, and excel. It is defined not by groups, but by individuals, such as "Sir Edmund Hillary and his Sherpa guide Tenzig Norgay".
If they are going to engage in an act that gives them such personal glory, they must be willing to accept whatever comes along with it, including the possibility of catastrophic defeat, or else what does it mean?
I say this having crewed on a four-man transatlantic sailing trip on a 42-foot sailboat where we all recognized that, for most of the time, we were beyond the reach of quick rescue from any Coast Guard. The joy of it was knowing that we were responsible for ourselves. Without risk, how can there be glory? It's fine to engage in self-absorbed exploits, as long as you remain self-absorbed when you get into trouble and don't expect to be rescued by the very people you have neglected on the way.
By the way, I'm sure at least some of them had parents who were married. Do not insult bastards this way ;^)
I see what you're saying. I don't know why I find that post so funny but I do. I'd like to hunt dangerous game in Africa some day so I guess it's kind of the same thing. Maybe I just have a dislike for those I've met who are into rock climbing and such. It's kind of like they have huge egos about the legends they are, only in their own minds. When hey, the America needs more heroes, how about you do something for the country hotshot?
You have a nice day and the very best to you and yours.
Semper Fi
Tommie