Well I'm not sure if this makes sense but here it goes:

I'm that beginner pilot Ryan referrers to. I had never heard of a "chicken stick". The times I've been to an airfield, I've either seen a starter used, or fingers. Not knowing anything, I could only assume both methods were acceptable and "safe". Thats one of the reasons I brought this topic up in the first place.

Chuck seems to be describing a way that might be safe, for an experienced pilot. I have no idea how these engines react or respond under varying conditions. I can't tell you how fast an engine is spinning or if its rich or lean based on sound; basically I know just enough to get myself hurt. Right now, a starter makes perfect sense for me.

Now, after some time, I guarantee I will learn. I will see how my engine responds, how it kicks, how it likes to be started and run. I will learn by experience and watching what an engine is capable of. In other words, over time, it might become just as safe for me to start my engines without a starter. What will change? The methods won't get any safer (starter vs stick) but my skill in using them will.

I get the feeling this is just like most things: the implementation of knowledge is power. An experienced adult lighting a gas stove is "safe", a 4 year old doing so is not. I'm that 4 year old, Chuck is that adult.