Like big time. So when I said I would fly to Michigan tomorrow to drive my Grandparents down here and then in two weeks after driving back up there with them I’d fly home it was with no small amount of trepidation. My stomach is in knots and I’m trying my hardest not to think about it. For those of you who know me well enough to know that I spent 9 years flying back and forth between Missouri and California every summer to visit first my dad and then my mom this may come as something of a surprise to you. The truth is I didn’t used to be so scared. It wasn’t until I was 13 or so that it first started to make me nervouse and its only been within the last couple of years that its become something that will bring me to tears just thinking of it. Flying is not as dangerous as driving people say. You’re more likely to die in a car crash than a plane. Thats what they tell you. But they probably never think about the fact that there are a hell of a lot more people driving than there are flying so those are really poorly thought out statistics. And besides that, who cares? It doesn’t make me any less scared. This is a phobia and its really hard to get around phobias. But I won’t let my fears manage me.
So I’ll take my laptop and my book and an embroidery project. Things to keep my mind busy. Things to help me avoid thinking of what could go wrong and instead think of being back in Michigan again- one of my favorite places to be. I wish Jarell were going with me- that would make it so much easier. Being separated from him is probably the hardest part of this whole trip. I need good thoughts from all my friends out there to send me on my way and bring me back home safely.
Melissa
My first time on a plane, my first husband helped me by saying “What are you going to do when they close that door and you can’t get out?” When what I NEEDED was someone to just hold my hand. Well, I SHOWED him what I’d do: I walked off the plane before they shut the door, grabbed my luggage and got a taxi home.
And as you know, I recently flew TWICE, ALONE, because I had no choice. THAT’S the difference. When you CHOOSE to fly, you’re putting yourself in the position of risk. When you have no choice, you do it.
This is pretty much one of those no choice situations. I mean I guess I could choose to not drive my grandparent’s home but if something were to happen to them driving home I’d never forgive myself.
I’m both an airline captain and a licensed therapist. I’ve set up a free library of articles on fear of flying at http://www.fearofflying.com/wordpress/
Thanks Capt Tom. I checked out your website and I really like it. I plan to read more before I have to fly home from Michigan!
hi, Hellesbelles, you can be very proud of yourself for doing this, and especially for having the courage to do something in spite of your fears. People who don’t have phobias and panics just don’t understand. But you can do it! Remember it’s your own feelings and sensations that you’re afraid of, and they don’t mean anything.
Thanks Not a Saint
I really appreciate you’re encouragement on this!