"Mark James Boyd" wrote in message
news:42366195$1@darkstar...
(snip)
Absolutely it's about fun, though. And there really isn't much fun
in 20 pattern tows. So I'd hope the original poster would
have a bit of fun scratching lift or even soaring at a
great location.

(big snip)

Agreed, Mark,
My point was that soaring is a journey more than a destination. Enjoy the
ride! Rather than trying to get those 20 flights "out of the way", instead
savor them, revel in the new experiences. New ratings are certainly OK, if
one needs or wants them, but they aren't what Orville and Wilbur or DaVinci
or most of us were dreaming about when we got into flying.

I got a new tow pilot endorsement last weekend, on my private license. I
couldn't care less that I will never make money at towing. I get to help
the club, to help my fellow glider pilots get into the air, and, most of
all, get to learn a bunch of new skills. I now have a whole new viewpoint
on soaring that I had missed all these years. A new aircraft model has
shown me a glimpse of her personality, and we are now tentative and aloof
partners. Logbook sign-off? Oh yeah, I guess I need that for the FAA and
the insurance.

I understand that you are a professional pilot and naturally plan to make
some money at flying. That is wonderful. Just don't ever let the trappings
take away the pure joy of flight...
-Bob Korves