Well, as I said, I don't want to rehash things again, but I've often debated that focusing on standardization doesn't fit mainstream diving (In an environment where there is so much variety) as much as adaptability does. In that same vein, beginning with the end in mind loses it's appeal if the end is rec diving but many things you learn were designed for tech diving. That those ideas can't work in the rec realm isn't in question; just whether other strategies can also work. Sure everyone believes it's a great idea to be on the same page with the same gear... as long as it's my page and my gear.
Many people who choose DIR can't understand the relevance because they weren't attached to their previous situation and were looking for a change. They wish to dive with like minded divers (so what's the problem?), especially if they are moving forward down the tech pathway. But there are those who are happy where they are, though they may wish to elevate their level of diving there. I belong to a social dive club that I like - no one dives DIR. I certainly am not going to stop diving with those people just because I take a GUE course. To me, diving with like minded divers also includes people who share the same interests (notably photo/video) not just the same diving regime.
But at the same time (actually pretty early on) I recognized that diving in the rec realm was a dangerous business. That lack of cohesion and lip service to the buddy system creates a false sense of security IMO. So I sought a solution for self preservation. Part of that was/is looking at what DIR does, because I believe it is very well thought out. But at the same time I dive in ways that are diametrically opposed to some of the concepts (solo, vintage) so I have always struggled with how much of it would benefit, how much I would disregard, and how much it would cost to find out. In the end I chose the self reliant route which has it's own philosophy equipment etc... and over the years, it is the perspectives of these two directions that has been the impetus of much of our discussions. Not, which one is better, in absolute terms, just which one is more appropriate in the rec setting, given current conditions.
But, I really don't want to get too into that stuff again (except in a positive way). Guys offer really opens the door to a different discussion down the road and I want to give that a fair shake. I think I will write about all this sort of stuff when we go through the course and afterward.
