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Noble anarchy

A young man displayed all the traits of a noble and excellent anarchist — not a so-called anarchist who willfully destroys property in a black-scarved tantrum, but one who, despite human folly, creates the kind of world that doesn’t need policing.

Looking at the mass of steel banisters and concrete below the kicker in the backyard of the United Church, one marvels at the kids’ plan to hop over the church sign onto a petite snow ramp to gravel and asphalt.

One may question their sanity, particularly since the majority of us lack the nerve and refined skills that give these young athletes the confidence to consider such stunts.

Fundamentally, we respect our town’s daredevils even as we believe in measured risks to reduce the potential for damaged property or worse.

The snowboarder made a choice, a choice that may have led to a victory of gymnastic proportions, but actually ended in boards smashed six feet down to concrete in a gnarly crash.

Thankfully his bones were preserved.

Some will find reasons to criticize stunts that could kill, maim, or otherwise stunt the athlete, and some will cry foul and “private property” under banners of liability.

Here, such opinions are unhelpful.

In a world cynical about young people’s integrity, the young man deserves congratulation. He knew the right thing to do.

He displayed all the traits of a noble and excellent anarchist — not a so-called anarchist who willfully destroys property in a black-scarved tantrum, but one who, despite human folly, creates the kind of world that doesn’t need policing.

The story points to the beauty of a small community and the benefits of interconnectedness and accountability.

The youngster picked himself up, immediately accepted a man’s responsibility to account for the consequences of his actions, and promised to replace the sign.

His success will be a mark of honour and bring credit to his generation.

— Rossland News