MOUNTAINEERING -- After reporting last week's death of an 82-year-old Nepalese man attempting to become the oldest to climb Mount Everest, my post read: "I could go either way on this: What the hell was he doing up there? - OR - What a great way to go!"

Readers were less likely to straddle the divide:

"Beats lying in a hospital bed dying of nothing!" said George, with apologies to Redd Fox.

"I think people should consider the risks to the rescuers, porters, and fellow team members," said Eric. "They suffer a harsh burden when tragedies like this occur.... The choice affected the lives of others."

"Keep reaching for the stars," said Von.

"A very sad story," said Tracy. " Not only did he lose his life, but the loss of his life negates the goal he was after, "to raise awareness about the capabilities of elderly people by scaling Everest". At 82, and in good enough health to attempt the climb, he had a lot of life in him that he can no longer experience or share."

"There are many, many exciting and stimulating wilderness sport activities that challenge me and make me feel alive without risking death," said Alison.