The "other" end of the DIR question

[boomx5]

Sorry, I like to learn about a subject and then pick and choose for myself what's right for me. If you tell me up front it's all or nothing and that your way is the only "right" way, I'm probably going to be very skeptical.

Unfortunately Android,

You've got yourself an "internet view" of the DIR system. It's kind of like the blind man who felt the elephant...you can grab an ear or a trunk or a tail but will not really understand what it is because you haven't properly seen the whole thing.

Also, being skeptical is absolutely normal because of the things you've probably heard or read on the internet. In fact, I as well as many who are now in the "DIR" camp started out just like you, including some GUE instructors I know. However, once they found out what the DIR system was really about, they decided to pursue the training for themselves; crossing over from many other organizations.

If you are at all interested, I would say talk to a GUE instructor, don't get hung-up on the DIR acronym and get yourself properly educated on what it's all about...at least you'll get yourself a balanced explanation and you actually may learn something about the DIR system.

 

[O2BBubbleFree]

If you dont mind, could you please cut and paste a few examples of Narrow minded DIR posts?
Many thanks
dave

With regard to the Air2, which many believe is perfectly acceptable for rec divers in open water:

Just a couple of quickies:

1:

... I really like the SP AIR2 but don't know if it can be installed directly on an Oceanic Flex BC. Does any one have exerience with something like this. Jon P.

Why not get a real octopus?

Get her a real regulator...

2:

So I am curious.... I was reading the other thread on pony bottles and was wondering how many people have experience with Air 2's. Not so much for the fact of owning and loving just if you had a buddy that had one do you know how the system works???

I think the air2 is a "solution" to a non-existent problem. I would not dive with one and would be hesitant to dive with someone that had one.

IMO - Air2's are a tax on the gullible. ...

Please note that neither of these threads were started to discuss the pros and cons.

Now, I fully expect to get a lot of postings from DIR types condeming the Air2, which will actually support the argument that they can't accept any way but their own. Please don't let me down

 

[LioKai]

3dent, I hope you are wearing your helmet. LOL

 

[boomx5]

Now, I fully expect to get a lot of postings from DIR types condeming the Air2, which will actually support the argument that they can't accept any way but their own. Please don't let me down

Condemnation of the Air2 is not isolated to only to the "DIR types".

 

[Aquamaniac]

You kidding? If you have to ask, I doubt you'd be willing to accept the answer.

Look up the definition of narrow-minded ... the entire post fits it.

... Bob (Grateful Diver)

Bob, we have done this dance so many times before but.......

The reason those people commented on the failings of Air 2's etc etc was because they stood back, took a wide minded look at the situation, and decided it was not the SAFEST of options, THEN were open minded enough to try and pass that knowledge onto others.

Im a classic example of one who was open minded enough to listen.
I am not DIR, never paid a cent to GUE, never sat in on a class, never even met a GUE instructor, I do however listen to the arguements (because Im open minded) adopt most of the philosophy, and agree 100% with almost everything that is said about DIR.
Sure, I see a few overzealous newbies every so often, and even a few overly critical oldies as well, but you know where I find most of them?.....Right here, Never ever have I come across a narrow minded DIR Diver in the field........EVER.

I have seen, on many many occassions, narrow minded divers who hear the word DIR, and immediatly put up the defense shields, and begin the taunting. In fact, i would have to say over 80% of the "charter boat dives" Ive done in the last 3 years, i have had someone take a shot at my configuration......Considering Im not DIR, Thats pretty narrow.

Now, back to the search...There HAS to be one here somewhere!!!!

 

[O2BBubbleFree]

Condemnation of the Air2 is not isolated to only to the "DIR types".

True, but these were the first I found in my quick search, and if I'm not mistaken they list DIR or GUE in their profiles. I picked out these replies because they illustrate DIR types condeming w/o being constructive.

 

[Soggy]

True, but these were the first I found in my quick search, and if I'm not mistaken they list DIR or GUE in their profiles. I picked out these replies because they illustrate DIR types condeming w/o being constructive.

Those posts don't sound very narrow minded to me. They sound like solid advice being given to someone who might not understand the inherent limitations of such a device.

 

[android]

Many diving practices are either right or wrong. But a lot of practices can be catorgorized using the old-fashioned Sears Roebuck scale of good, better and best.

Since "RIGHT" only has the antonym "WRONG", it can be percieved as an automatic dismissal of those that choose good, better or different. Not good ground from which to attempt to persuade.

 

[MXGratefulDiver]

Bob, we have done this dance so many times before but.......

The reason those people commented on the failings of Air 2's etc etc was because they stood back, took a wide minded look at the situation, and decided it was not the SAFEST of options, THEN were open minded enough to try and pass that knowledge onto others.

Im a classic example of one who was open minded enough to listen.
I am not DIR, never paid a cent to GUE, never sat in on a class, never even met a GUE instructor, I do however listen to the arguements (because Im open minded) adopt most of the philosophy, and agree 100% with almost everything that is said about DIR.
Sure, I see a few overzealous newbies every so often, and even a few overly critical oldies as well, but you know where I find most of them?.....Right here, Never ever have I come across a narrow minded DIR Diver in the field........EVER.

I have seen, on many many occassions, narrow minded divers who hear the word DIR, and immediatly put up the defense shields, and begin the taunting. In fact, i would have to say over 80% of the "charter boat dives" Ive done in the last 3 years, i have had someone take a shot at my configuration......Considering Im not DIR, Thats pretty narrow.

Now, back to the search...There HAS to be one here somewhere!!!!

I know ... but we have parallel conversations going on now.

I have no issues with people offering sincere opinions on equipment, agencies, or whatever.

What I do have issues with is doing so in ways that are condescending, insulting, or uninformed ... because they are, in fact, parroting a "party line".

I'm not a fan of Air2. But I would not forego diving with someone who used one. Instead, I'd take it upon myself to discuss beforehand what we would each do in the event of an emergency that required its use. And I would consider the appropriateness of a given dive plan based upon the equipment being used.

I would not ... ever ... call someone "gullible" for purchasing equipment ... even if it were something I'd never consider purchasing. Instead I'd try to find a logical, constructive way of explaining to them why I didn't think it was a good choice.

I've had this conversation with many of my DIR friends before ... you don't see the prejudice directed against others because it isn't directed against you. But to deny it's there is simply unrealistic.

The two examples I've provided above show that ... I'm subjected to stereotyping, not based on what I do, but based on what agency I'm certified through.

And yes, that certainly IS the definition of narrow-minded.

... Bob (Grateful Diver)

 

[Soggy]

Many diving practices are either right or wrong. But a lot of practices can be catorgorized using the old-fashioned Sears Roebuck scale of good, better and best.

Since "RIGHT" only has the antonym "WRONG", it can be percieved as an automatic dismissal of those that choose good, better or different. Not good ground from which to attempt to persuade.

It's an acronym and a marketing slogan. Get over it. Last time I checked, Cheeze-Whiz doesn't have urine in it, either.