At sea and in the wilderness, knowing one's position and direction relative to other geographic locations is essential. Understanding how to use/read navigation equipment is basic, but there are exceptions. Hence, knowledge of reading the stars, making/using a compass and sextant are vital for times when there are no batteries or electricity. This knowledge, skill, combined with the ability to make good decisions quickly help one to find and keep one's bearings.

John McCain gets confused easily, doesn't want to admit it, and isn't the sharpest knife in the drawer to begin with. Perhaps he has the wrong kind of bearings [presence rather than navigation and decision-making skills].

Is McCain even smart enough to be brainwashed into a Manchurian candidate?