Survival Skills are Only a Small Part of Self Reliance

[@lindahodgkins4197]

You hit the nail on the head with the phrase, "independent thought" . You are always thinking and I think that is where your self reliance come from. You always try to figure thinks out. I love watching your wheels turning and the fruits of your research.

[@TaraWoodruff2014]

11:52 I love how honest you are. You dont pretend, You think And you act. Best of all, you share it with us so well. I respect and honor your journey and Im stoked that I get to watch it.

[@billiamc1969]

I haven't had help doing anything in years...I manage 150 honeybee colonies, run 3 homes and do all maintenance, fix our cars, fix appliances, maintain my equipment, pour concrete, roofing...you name it and I do it myself...I admire you sir!!!!

[@dfuss2756]

You are spot on. In my 67 years I have found that no ones opinion matters but your own. It is your life to live not someone else who doesn't walk in your shoes. Even family opinion is weighed and I may agree or not, but no one else has a say. "If your happy I am happy for you" is how I have lived my life and so has my husband.

[@karlchristoffer1275]

So well said, agree...! :))

[@johndudley5987]

Shawn just look at what you do and what you love. And the amount of people on your channel how love what you do. Don’t worry about the drama filled people that just want to run good people down. You are great and living off the land is how GOD intended it in my opinion. Wish we all did like you. You have a great mind and a humble attitude. Keep up the good work my friend. We love you here in Texas.

[@bamaboy6999]

Sean don't worry about what people say just keep doing what you doing cuz there's a lot of us that really love what you doing

[@RARORA10]

In regards to negative comment; I was reading lack of self confidence and knowledge is the cause of " jealousy". So Shawn your awesome talent and skills in action here, being enjoyed by many of us. Thank you

[@cedomircizmic1497]

Intention, be to smart, one broken builder.

[@mikerogers9711]

Nothing is FREE. Hard work, trading for supplies and knowledge. That is what “self reliance” is.

[@JeremySmith-gu2du]

I guess the people making those comments missed the "My" in My Self-Reliance as in your version of self-reliance which is still more self-reliant than most people.

[@72pinebarron]

Jeremy Smith you are correct sir!

[@nil981]

If we are going to be honest, most people aren't self reliant.

[@Harley04]

@@nil981 we could all move to the forest, build houses and it would look like todays suburbs ha ha ha

[@viadharmawheel]

Yes, nothing more than a cheap shot. If the title was "I Am Self Reliant" then that is another story and would be subject to such critique. And I agree, at a high level it is a way thinking; building a cabin, etc. is an implementation of that way of thought via persistence. Cheers to Shawn again!

[@markthomas4992]

What about his wife - shouldn’t it be ‘OUR’ self reliance?

[@cherylross4040]

Well said. Self reliance means something different to all of us. When we judge other people's definition, we place focus on what someone else is doing, rather than focusing on how we are living our own life. I really like your example of hunting to articulate how important it is for us to gather information to form our own opinion about something. Reflect, be still, think about what you believe and consider to be true for yourself. We can all still enjoy Shawn's journey and process. Thanks for sharing Shawn.

[@karonmccree7641]

You have taken me back to the simple times when I was a child watching my father teaching me his crafts. I never would have thought that I living in Washington DC would be enjoy watching and looking forward to your video's. Loving Calli since my dog died. Just wanted to say Thank you and God bless..Please don't stop. Your wisdom is inspiring. Sending blessings your family for sharing you with all of us.

[@gerardnielsen8971]

There are always people who have to throw in their 2 cents in. not because they care. but because they are unhappy with their own life. or their in inability to accomplish what you have done Shawn . I'm very happy to watch almost every episode of yours. Frankly at the beginning i thought this was mission impossible. (but I was wrong) you proved it was not only possible to accomplish. you actually accomplished your dream. keep on doing what you love Shawn. I enjoy every minute. Just stay safe. and don't forget your gloves

[@jacquelinemichellemcquaig-8668]

You are doing an awesome job!! Just goes to show how great God is when he gives someone this wonderful gift to do what you do!! I love your videos keep up the great work that you are doing!!

[@martinparmer]

Gosh, maybe those with the negative comments have it all figured out and will soon be airing they're own videos enlightening all of us. Can't wait!

[@wendygold9885]

Most of us are here with you because we admire your lifestyle and the comfort and peace we get living vicariously through your adventure. If I feel anxious, I watch one of your videos and it helps level me out. I live in a cabin in beautiful woods in the summer - it is where I grew up. I love the simplicity, the going back in time. To hunt your own food is a noble thing. Thank you.

[@michaelknight3857]

Mr James, this was beautifully said. There are different levels of self reliance and the confidence that comes with it. To each his own and thank you for your inspiring videos.

[@gentry43]

This is why I truly appreciate and watch you on an ongoing basis Shawn you are really truly transparent when it comes to how you live your life . So thank you sir ,thank you for what you do and what you contribute to us , keep being you dear sir. 🤗 Enjoy your weekend

[@chrisabacherli9287]

Hi Shawn, I believe that some people have confused "the end of day's"prepping with being self-reliant. The independence and confidence gained from building something from nothing with your own two hands and four paws (Callie) are self-rewarding and self-fulfilling. With confidence and clarity, no task is too great to achieve. I thank you for reminding us that goals and dreams can be obtained if we focus on what we realy want in life.

[@thehoff4581]

Mr. James, You are not alone. Thank you being an example of what one man can do. From you'r neighbor from the south, Thank you!

[@ziogualty]

The only 100% self reliant person i ever knew about was Tarzan. Whoever uses a knife, or an axe, or even learned how to be self reliant on books is not 100% self reliant as they thought. This channel is not about "how to survive a zombie apocalypse". Is about being in contact with nature, live a quieter life, and do as much as you can by yourself while buying only what is really needed. And this mix is what makes Shawn channels so entertaining and inspiring!

[@barbarapockaj9584]

😂True

[@MillimeterMech]

Who in the hell would thumbs down my guy Shawn James?! Thanks for another great video Shawn!

[@WLeonardAthas]

Some knucklehead. They probably think Shawn is evil because he cuts down dead trees that would otherwise provide food to termites. Keep up the fantastic work Shawn!! We love your videos!!

[@oldtimerlee8820]

I've seen that very thing condemned because it destroys animal habitat. A fellow cut down a small dead tree for some reason that I don't remember now. Some folks were highly upset at his disrespect of the forest. (sigh)

[@slopyj81]

MillimeterMech69 how dare they dislike it not cool

[@mawmawvee]

They have a right to speak their minds. Shawn himself identified what happens with people who have "knee-jerk" reactions to what someone says and it's out of ignorance. Knee-jerk reactions are weak in at least two ways I can see--They are mindless and some people are threatened when someone thinks differently from how they do. Instead of calling detractors names and being disrespectful to them, he stops and thinks about the situation, so some of his self-reliance is showing up.

[@MillimeterMech]

I was merely adding a little levity into the subject, his videos whether you agree or not are for enjoyment. Also, I understand everyone has the right to feel and think differently. However, I don’t understand why people can’t lighten up a touch with being so sensitive and are not a little more thick skinned. I attest that to people’s upbringing and possibly a generational thing.

[@plank19]

Shawn, you are a man among men. Your quiet demeanor belies the depth within you. Your deeds speak volumes. You are a man whom men would follow into battle. My respects Canada's son.

[@Elessar9692]

Hey Shawn. Thanks for all you do. I discovered your channel this summer, and at first, I was gonna work as a farm hand for the summer, make some decent money, but then I fell down a flight of stairs and broke my ankle. I admit I spent a lot of time brooding, because I'm normally a very active person and I was disappointed. Then as I had a lot of time to watch KZbin, I discovered My Self Reliance and a few other great outdoor channels. I grew up loving the outdoors and doing a lot of camping and hiking, and over the past few years of college I've let those passions die a little, so for the past year I've been rekindling those old passions. Your content helped me keep up that hope, and it has made me think of self reliance in ways I haven't thought of before. I love being self reliant, but I also deeply value community.Lately, I've finally got back to hiking, did some solo backpacking, and soon I'm gonna get back to some other passions of mine. I've wanted to say this for a long time: thanks Shawn. You really inspire me. God bless you, you awesome, awesome man. See you at the cabin!!!!

[@FXSTC]

Well spoken. Less groupthink, more independent thought.

[@anewcreation8458]

You are a great example of a thinking and hard-working man. It is a shame that those who are jealous are showing not only that jealousy but also their limited minds on the internet. Keep up your good work!

[@IngoVogelmann]

I appreciate your humbleness. I think that's what makes you credible on every level and with everything you do here.

[@gr8outdoors966]

I could listen to this man for hours and hours. I wish I had teachers back in the days, that were like Shawn.

[@garyfairbrother5532]

Some folks must think that the pioneers cut the trees, milled the lumber, forged the nails and built their own covered wagons before heading west. They also probably think that they should have pushed and pulled the wagons themselves instead of taking the easy way out by buying horses and oxen. My Self Reliance is a great channel and your energy and hard work is inspiring. I’m glad you don’t let the negative comments bother you, they don’t bother me either!

[@melisamitchell1413]

That's why you call it *MY* Self Reliance. Maybe not relevant to someone else, but it is yours and you own it. I love your videos and always give careful consideration to what you have to say. Thanks for sharing!

[@oldpete3153]

I just realized that watching and listening to you it's as though I'm looking at myself in a mirror....I truly wish I could articulate my feelings like yourself but having said that I will just carry on believing in myself as it has served me well getting to 70 yr's of age....thank you.

[@lindaleduke5016]

My Dad grew up on ranches in Oklahoma and Colorado. As a teenager one of his duties was to shoot the deer that were eating hay intended for the cattle. When he moved to Tennessee, he would never go deer hunting with his friends. He loved to fish, rabbit, duck and goose hunt, but never deer. He just didn't have the heart for it.

[@neil2385]

you have done a super job. your persistence and skills are exemplary

[@a-ls6333]

You're a brave man, a special breed, putting your thoughts and feelings out there for people to pick apart, misinterpret and croticise you for. You don't have to do this. You don't have to justify what you're doing, and explain your whole thought process and psyche. Be kind to yourself, appreciate the fact so many people get peace and pleasure from watching what you're doing. Don't get caught up in all the bullshit negativity - you are inspiring so many people to reconsider a simpler, calmer way of life. I'm all for it.

[@americanaxetoolco2076]

Your self reliance is a state of mind! Meaning goals you’ve set for yourself whether it be a cabin in the woods and your financial survival! It can be several things not just one! I totally get what you’re doing! Do it your way! You’re over 21 and you pay your own bills! What someone else thinks is irrelevant!

[@gerardnielsen8971]

Bingo. you got it right

[@pomak6511]

Shawn..the channel is called "MY self-reliance" the key word being "MY". You should not have to explain yourself to ignorant folks. You are doing a GREAT public service to all that follow you. I am just honored that you allow us into your home every week. I learn from your successes and your failures. Godspeed my friend.

[@patrickh9226]

I've got it. I think we've all got it. Keep being true to yourself. We will be true to ourselves. We will all inspire each other. Thank you for these videos!

[@grahamball364]

Hi Shawn, I would like to say I find you and your lifestyle very interesting and endive the way you live your life ,I work as a nurse and some days I come home after a manic day,and I relax with your channel,keep doing what your doing ,all the best Graham.

[@chuckrf1502]

I read Thoreau and Emerson in school yet your videos have touched me more. Ignore the naysayers- we are getting your content for free and obviously enjoy it and continue to come back for more.

[@margaretstewart3255]

Thank you so much for your thoughtful reflections in this and other videos. I appreciate you in my life, Shawn.

[@bweags4194]

You’re the man Shawn. You’ve gotta lot of wisdom and determination. You’re a great role model.

[@jacobj3236]

I've learned over the years how to just ignore people and to not let things get to me because they aren't worth my time. I've been watching you since early last year when you started the cabin, and I'm glad that you share all of this on KZbin because you're a big inspiration to me and I have learned a lot of things from you. As a young adult in my early twenties, I'm trying to learn as much as possible and how to use my time wisely and these channels have opened my eyes a lot. Thanks for all you do Shawn, much love from Kentucky.

[@globetrotting2628]

To those making negative comments, you wouldn't even be watching his videos if he was completely off grid. Computers, cameras, internet, etc. Shawn is living a more self reliant lifestyle than the majority of the population. Thank you for all the great videos Shawn. We've been playing catch up after finding them on KZbin a couple of months ago.

[@johnmcclintock8004]

Please disregard any negative/ignorant/misinformed comments.I'm 62, & you are the wisest/most self-reliant person I've seen.

[@deanbarr5740]

Hi Shawn, enjoyed your conversing. I grew up on a farm. I didnt know growing up how good of an upbringing I had until I set out on my own. At that time i thought i was missing out on everything in life. Today I see just how rich we were. We were in a very remote area 25 miles from school. Our closest neighbors were two miles away. My 8 siblings and i had chores to do after school like milking cows,feeding livestock, getting in firewood, maintaining our pastures, building fence, and butchering pigs,beeves, and chickens. People dont do this anymore. I wish we could move back in time. Grow our own food, live like your doing. I would like to try a lifestyle such as yours but after 38years working the same 9 to 5 job, I'm just about at the end of my career. Good Lord willing I'll retire in a couple years. One thing I've learned is it takes less a budget to live on the older you get. That is if your health holds out, and you don't need any kind of doctoring. Which is why I'm still working. One never knows. Take care Shawn. Best regards.

[@Tony-outdoors]

Shawn remember this people who are quick to criticize or find fault are the one's who do nothing themselves , I've spent my whole life in the woods and outdoors fishing, hunting camping etc before the word bushcraft was the in word, I find your videos and philosophy on the outdoors spot on, so keep doing what your doing Shawn and good luck to you and your family .

[@poisonwater7241]

I like your philosophy and it is very instructional, especially to Young folks of today's society. So much is missing in how to get along in today's world and good sound thinking is important so continue what you are doing it's worthwhile . I've always loved the mountaineer life pattern. It goes far deeper than being completely isolated and self reliant. It's a system of " can- do" and not completely relying on handouts! It's a gitter done attitude!

[@TUSSCANNY]

You have more talent then I will ever have in my life what's left of it. Don't let the hater ever get to you. Granny Fan USA 🇺🇸

[@DonkeyPuncher1976]

I love your philosophy. In a way I kinda followed what you did before I ever saw your channel. Living in Southern California till I was 40 my wife and I had great jobs but didn't seam to get the time in with our children. We decided 2 years ago to move to Austin Texas. I quit my job to be a stay at home Dad and my wife now works from home. Much cheaper to live out here also

[@msdaisydidi2640]

You are such a kind and smart man. Thank you for sharing your experience. Please do not listen negative comments.

[@alexpage7292]

Well, I for one appreciate and enjoy your videos and what you have to say on them! Please don’t let detractors and trolls get you down or put you off doing them. We all look forward to new content each week. Keep up the good work Shawn 😊🇬🇧

[@kalbs89]

I don't care how what you do is defined Shawn. Personally I am no longer physically or am I technically capable of doing what you are doing, I watch your videos because they inspire and entertain me. Just keep on doing what you do and I'll happily keep watching.

[@fynbo1007]

People now a day is very quick to judge, without understanding your situation and what you had decided to do. And the the problem is, they think they know more than you and it’s their rights to judge you. I know it’s hard to be judge, but believe in your project. I think you’re doing it amazing, we can not live without the rest of our world. Thank you for sharing your story. God bless you and your family. :-)

[@mikethompson6713]

I was diagnosed with cancer at 61 and a 1-1/2% chance of survival. That was 2 and a half years ago and I’m NED (no evidence of disease) today. Your videos got me through the darkest of times. The negative comments are a speck of dust, I noticed it but I have a completely different perspective on life now. And in a way you’re a big part of my life and I thank you Brother.

[@adriannicholson8819]

just love it when you give good wisdom out. and cali make me smile so thank you for being truthful and to the point

[@SmokeDiv3r888]

You do much pondering and reflecting. I believe we could use more of that in today’s world. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and thoughts with us. I look forward to it every week.

[@grandmasstories3418]

Spending time by yourself made you a deep thinker. Thanks for sharing this.

[@j.s.foster1378]

Love your view on self reliance, you completely have a grasp on what needs to be done to accomadate your situation. That is oblivious to most and envied by many.

[@DOMINYPAUL]

Self Reliance to me is making the best uses out of what you have, being able by God's Grace to survive. No matter where one find ones self. Love your videos, looking forward to your next build.

[@TheKsurf]

11'19 "think through a problem and solve it and find a way to do it on my own" YES !!!!!!!! your channel rocks man!

[@jameskniskern2261]

Keep on keeping on. You do you. I'll do me. It isn't good. It isn't bad. It is just different. Self reliance is just that... Relying on yourself to get things done. And you do that very well.

[@TimpTim]

SO nice to hear and read some thoughtful, intelligent conversation (you, uk northern etc.) from the outdoor community. Keep at it. I'm 74 and still learning!

[@BorisKarlovic]

Learn, research, adapt, attempt, modify...repeat 🙂 Excellent words Shawn

[@timjames9567]

Shawn, you’re a well-grounded man. Lots of wannabes around here. You’re doing us a great service. Self reliance = “be prepared” ala what I learned as a youngster and thanks to the Boy Scouts. Renaissance Man. Even at 67, I know I have a lot to learn from guys like you. Thanks!

[@ronwatson4902]

I think of things while I'm working sometimes or just being alone sometimes that I can't put into words very well.I just don't have that ability but I know where you're coming from.You do a much better job of relating your thoughts than I do.I love to hear you talk.

[@niyadapanpreecha1225]

For me, you are my best teacher... FC from Thailand.

[@greywolfwalking6359]

The concept of " self reliance".. Is a wonderful thing to many and romanticized by even more. Doing for yourself n your family with whatever resources that you can marshall... It is what most " military trained " people do once in life' s flow! " Adapt to the challenges presented, marshall your resources to overcome obstacles, and walk into the cool breeze of prosperity n accomplishments achieved!".. Tsgt. David Wolf, USAF... Saigon, Vietnam.. "71-73" my team chief.. My inspiration!

[@dobos420]

Shawn you have some Mad skills and are far more self Reliance then most people. You have taught me a great deal of things and I've been a framer building homes most of my life. Thank you sir for sharing your knowledge with us. Dont worry about the few who apparently have nothing better to do then complain. Peace ✌

[@goooddyy2shus]

Keyword is MY In the title. Each individuals reliance on themselves is different. What it means to you is what is important. Also I love this channel I look forward to your videos they give me a huge since of calm. ❤️ sweet Cali

[@Genetk44]

32 thumbs down!!! I don’t get it, how can anybody give this or any of Shawn’s videos a thumbs down.

[@jamesshaney2399]

I do think Shawn your doing it right! I'm running a company and I am after a decade finding I need more time to reflect that's what I'm working on and then near future selling my company and moving on, your channel inspires me to move on and live life, thank you for that .JJ

[@poodledaddles1091]

thanks for being patient with people who do not thing like you...I'm not cut out that way!

[@cathybehrens6250]

Your ramble was great and well-needed. We are created to be a communal people (needing one another for love, for fellowship, for creature comforts, etc.), yet with the intelligence and reason to choose things wisely, to discern independently of others' opinions (peer pressure), and have the courage to walk the path in life that's meant for us. You're doing this in spades, Shawn, and it inspires the rest of us. Thanks!

[@zubidaalzoubi5240]

Please keep working at your cabin I like what you do and I learned many great things about self reliance 👍👍

[@jecracing4511]

your opinion,combined with your skills and learning experience while you develop your philosophy.. All of this turned Into an entertaining, informative and very well produced format that can be enjoyed by so many. You have my personal thanks and gratitude for creating worthwhile educational entertainment . Thank you.

[@jayyoung5423]

Good stuff Shawn...self reliance to me means taking advantage of all the tools available in this modern age. If there is no gas, do it with tools, if no electricity, make do...no more stores...hunt. You can be amazed at the things you can accomplish when then luxuries are gone, be it today or in the future, peace from VT.

[@richardsabean5781]

We can live to work,, or work to live.. I lived 21 years off grid,, before solar, without a generator,, without the tools & knowhow.. learn as you go,, Mother Earth News a strong back & the love of nature & good food.. Aloha Shawn great story!!

[@robynelancaster7858]

Hi Shawn, you live in a beautiful place and you show us wonderful landscapes. The cabin is great and keep doing what you’re doing. I’ve been watching you build the cabin since the beginning and I enjoy your videos. I can only imagine what it’s like to live like you and your wife live in the Canadian forest 🌳. It must be a wonderful way to live. The trees, the lakes and views are amazing.

[@MrJerryKramer]

I believe that you are doing what is right for you and that’s all that should matter to you. From the beginning of time people relied on others around them.

[@WHBJr]

I think spending time, physically , interacting with nature, may serve to zero us in on what is important, and prudent, and wholesome!

[@tracymcclung3145]

What I take from your videos is self reliance , there’s always someone who will try to rain or your parade😂 some need to realise that self reliance and self sufficiency aren’t the same ,love your uploads thank you x 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@673Piper]

Shawn, just found this channel. Been watching your other one for months now. More is better. Thanks for your time and efforts.

[@emilternian6847]

I truly agree with your comments and you should look at people's negativity as your motivator. I respect what you are doing and if it was easy lots of people would have done it. Keep doing what are you are doing. Have a great week.

[@nevets7152]

Shawn, I don't comment much but I love your Vidios and I think you are a very good and genuine man best wishes to you and your family. Steve on the farm in Thailand.

[@suzisaintjames]

I don't know about that commenter, but even Dick Pernike, Grizzly Adams and Daniel Boone got supplies from "the outside" all the time. I can't think of anyone who was totally self reliant, so I can't figure where he's getting those expectations of being totally on his own.... Don't let his unrealistic expectations get to you. You do what works for you and your family! There's nothing wrong with what you are doing. With love ❤ from sunny 🌅 Arizona 🌵

[@tracybradshaw1362]

I think what you have accomplished is amazing! You should be very proud of your hard work. And your practical thinking is a refreshing and brings us back to the basics! Thank you!

[@chrisanderson9856]

We all have our own definition of self reliance. I believe those who think we can live entirely off grid in the 21st century are further from reality than they will ever admit. We will always need to rely, in some part, on others who offer a skill or commodity we need to live our self reliance. Have a great weekend Shawn!

[@thechronicgeneralist]

It's great to hear your views and focus on self development. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@michellejaggard9657]

Shawn I have been following your channel for some time now and so much enjoy watching every episode. The things you are doing are very well done, I feel I am learning something that has not ever been in my "wheel house". I may not I ever use it, but having the knowledge and the enjoyment of watching is powerful for me. Just because I don't plan to build my own cabin or do any number of the things you do doesn't mean it isn't valuable to me. I am a registered nurse and substained a severe back injury a few years ago requiring surgery, disc removed, rods and cages put in and vertebre fused. I get enjoyment watching things that I dreamed of being able to do one day. Thank you so much for posting your videos and thanks to your wife and family also for the time they are away from you so you can do this.

[@eileenallemm1835]

Dick Proenneke is one of my heroes as well I totally agree with you people really don't understand what self-reliance means. The skills that you are sharing will one day be useful.

[@russellwatson8145]

YOU DONT TELL US ENOUGH AS TO WHAT YOU ARE DOING STEP BY STEP.....WE ALL LOVE WHAT YOU ARE ALL ABOUT AND WATCH YOU BECAUSE YOU ARE SO GIFTED....LOL chefjack

[@rayrjrhuber5752]

some people now days are so hateful, for no reason at all. it's a real shame. I love the craftsman ship on your cabin. I don't understand why someone would put condescending comments on your channel. keep up the Awsome work Shawn, we will be here watching.

[@tinashaun84]

This is the first time i left a comment i think u need to give yourself a pat on the back what u accomplish is nothing short of amazing ,forget the haters be proud of what u have done !

[@grandmasstories3418]

Great speech! We are all totally different, original, and we shouldn't try to make others think like us or act like us or believe like us, though we can all learn something from each other. The people who think hunting is no good, SHOULDN'T hunt and let others be, as long as they are not exagerating. As Ghandi said: "The world has enough for everybody's need but not for everybody's greed"...as long as we respect nature and people and not be greedy, making it serve us and our needs is what we are supposed to do.

[@darellkettley6622]

Been watching your video for few weeks now love them keep them coming 👍

[@coreenmcnally2505]

Your explanation of critically analyzing your thoughts and opinions was excellent. A reminder to always question our assumptions. Thank you so much

[@david.pasquini]

Well said Shawn on many fronts!

[@oldtimerlee8820]

Well said. Mankind has never been totally independent and fully self-sufficient. Looking back in time, consider the trade routes that crossed continents in ancient times. Silk and spices from the Far East were traded for goods produced in Europe. Here in the US there's evidence of the trade of obsidian, as worked tools have been found far from the sources in the western US. Coming forward into the days of the "mountain men", they traded furs and such for goods and services they could not produce for themselves. That is a part of self-reliance that many forget. Get's pushed aside by the romantic notion of totally living off the land. It is a notion in that few can actually accomplish that feat at anything more than perhaps 75% of the total. I suspect that few, with that notion, fully understand the implications involved, if they were to attempt it. TV shows enhance the "romance". The participants know they will be going back to the comforts of their modern homes in 10 episodes or less. Much different story, when one has to figure out how to obtain the equivalent of a steel sewing needle, while not having to rely on anyone or anything other than themselves. Perhaps, a better example is salt. Worth it's weight in gold where it isn't naturally available. Perhaps since the dawn of civilization, it was used for barter with other people for goods and services not available where salt is extracted from land or sea. It is being self-reliant and independent to produce maple syrup to trade for salt to preserve meats and fish that can be sold to meet another need not naturally occurring on the back 40.

[@bhaddock9277]

Survival oriented living is a fascinating subject. Being able to think for yourself is the first step. The ability to listen to the wisdom of others is also of great value. Self reliance shouldn't become arrogance. Survival oriented living isn't just about being in a wilderness setting, you can still have the same mindset in an urban environment. It's about being aware of your surroundings.

[@kevingarber7057]

Don't listen to the hate. What your doing is awesome!!

[@skygerspacher6891]

Working at something with total focus is a form of meditation. a lovely form of meditation.