Being one of those “old” “bold” pilots myself (yea, there are a few of us around), there are a couple of other quotes that come to mind. I can relate to both of these!
“Learn from the mistakes of others. You won't live long enough to make all of them yourself.”
“Good judgment comes from experience. Unfortunately, the experience usually comes from bad judgment.”
With me, it depends on the boat, its size, and conditions whether “I” personally wear one or not, but even with my boat when I say it's time for life jackets – they are put on - by everyone, and I have had those times. As pointed out… things happen “fast”! I can honestly say, I have never pre-planned on “jumping” into the water with all my clothes (and wallet), but can remember finding myself getting out of the water more than once! Wearing a PFD on a small boat – is always a very good idea!
Thinking back… and something not mentioned, “most” I have helped out of the water (including myself and wife) have actually been around the “docks” and getting “on or off” boats might want to consider those PFDs prior to getting to the boat? I carry my Grandkids jackets with me, they are kept in my garage… and with them, the life jackets go on at the car and stay on while running.
Just thoughts!