Stardust 0 #26 November 4, 2004 I think it's a fun custom. Personally, I don't like beer. I did my first freefall this summer and had to bring it. It was actually the first case of beer I'd ever bought (I got ID-d) and didn't end up drinking any. But, I got to be part of the community and in wasn't about the beer. It was about celebrating my achievement. But it doesn't sound as though you have to buy beer. Is anybody going to shun you if you don't? "It is never easy to keep reaching for dreams. Strength and courage can sometimes be lonely friends. But those who reach walk in stardust." Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
kimemerson 7 #27 November 4, 2004 It came from the desire to celebrate surviving 'back in the day', when 200 jumps was enough to make you an expert and living to see another day was something to brag about. Firsts are milestones along the way and viewed as reason to celebrate. And I think that some standard was needed so beer was chosen as the celebratory vehicle. But there's nothing strict about that. The deed is, indeed, a way to celebrate with friends so whether you drink or not is moot. Bottled water would make a severly and measurably diminished impact. You never hear calls for "Case of Evian!" I don't drink either, but I do have a gloucoma problem and from time to time someone does something momentous or stupid and if coerced and convinced, can be talked into passing up the beer for something sweeter, floral, herbal. But we can't talk abouut that. God's boy George W. might be listening in. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
CrazyRick 0 #28 November 4, 2004 bought my first case of beer in 1975 at Tampa Bay Parachute Ranch. So it ain't nothin new. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
