Sharing my notes from today's message:
Say What? Fear Not
Andy Manley
October 30, 2016
Mark 4:35-41
Are we fearful of the circumstances, or are we fearful of the outcome, wondering if Jesus is even there?
Jesus is there, and he knows the outcome. He can rest in the circumstances, because he is in control.
When we are in the storm, there are not easy answers to make the storms go away.
Fear creates a story.
Genesis 19:31-33. Lot and his daughters' plot to preserve their family
line. They were reacting out of fear, rather than turning to God.
Fear confuses our decision making. (This is a biological response, BTW)
Back to the Mark passage, Jesus' disposition was of rest, calm and peace. He was sleeping on a cushion!
He's promised to be with us, to never forsake us. He's here with us in life's storms.
Remember, you're exactly where God wants you. He's setting the stage for what's next.
The bigger the circumstances, the more reliant we need to be on God.
"Fear not, for I am with you," says the Lord.
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your
God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my
righteous right hand.”
Isaiah 41:10 NIV
The message of the gospel is hope in the middle of the storm. Jesus is fully authorized to deal with the mess, the storm.
Sunday, October 30, 2016
Saturday, October 29, 2016
Day 20 - Distraction leads to lazy days (or, when you don't have a plan...)
Is it a lack of focus that causes distraction, or is it
distraction that causes a lack of focus?
Today was a day that held a lot of potential. With the IFR weather, the early morning flight lesson was
cancelled, so I decided at 5:05 that I’d go back to sleep for a few more
hours. But, I didn’t go back to
sleep right away, thanks to a combination of a headache and various thoughts
running through my head. Thoughts
of all sorts: about the week, last night’s festivities, the family, work, flying,
the house, exercise….no squirrels, but lots of hamster wheeling.
After about forty minutes of various trains leaving the
station, I dozed off until 6:30, when Ramsey (who slept at my feet all night,
keeping me quarantined under the covers to a fourth of the bed) decided he need
to go outside. After letting him
out and a couple of acetaminophen, I figured I’d try to sleep some more, as no
one else had stirred. It was nice
to get a chance to sleep in, which isn’t usually the case these days.
When I did get out of bed, I had some breakfast and coffee
while briefly browsing social media and then reading some posts on an online forum
I found a few weeks ago. The
weather was still dreary, the coffee was hot, the girls were sleeping, and Jill
was writing at her desk. So, a
lazy morning I decided it would be.
A few hours went by, and I decided to go downstairs and wake
up Number Four, since her friend who had spent the night had already been up
for an hour. I then checked in on
the computer. I had some thoughts
from Day 17’s writing that I wanted to finish, which I did, after going down a
few rabbit holes on Kierkegaard and subjective vs. objective truth . In the process, I started a load of
laundry after an inquiry about such was made, and finished the writing. Oh, and Ryan Divish's article on King Felix and what he needs to do in the off-season to return to his throne in 2017.
Saturday college football was on, including Rocky playing Tech at home. I didn't feel like heading up the street to the Rocky Bowl, and after surfing through a few
games, nothing really caught my fancy.
I dottled on Twitter for a
bit, but again, nothing overly exciting.
I ended up surfing channels some more while waiting to switch loads. Then, I had to re-run a load because
something akin to lip gloss (My lip gloss
is cool, my lip gloss be poppin’) was on half of the items.
Got the load re-washed and then I needed to get ready as we
were going to see the late matinee of Inferno. That sounded like fun entertainment.
So, in and out of the shower and out the door to the
theater (IMAX is an extra $5/ticket, and for this movie, wasn't worth the extra). It was a semi-entertaining movie with some properly-dressed eye candy
and a Armageddon-preventing plot successfully fulfilled. I don't think Mr. Hanks
(not the eye candy) will win an Oscar. As the movie is finishing, I get texts and phone calls about where we are, and where is T? She forgot she's supposed to go babysit with a friend. So, we drop the youngest at her friend’s and head back.
Upon returning home, switch out the laundry load and fold it
while watching the Indians and Cubs in Game #4 (What’s up with the Cubs offense
this off-season? So much for my "Cubs in six" prediction--sorry, Tren). A bit
more browsing social media and the forum (with some interspersed tears), a quick chat with Stands in Cabbage
Patch, play fetch with Ramsey a few times as I fast forward through the
commercials and suddenly, it’s 10:30.
Where did the day go?
What did I get done? There
are a lot of things that could have been done today that would have been a lot
more productive. Is it okay to be
lazy now and again? I suppose it is, but—in hindsight--having a definitive plan and
working it to get some stuff done probably would have made me feel more accomplished.
It’s easy to get distracted. Maybe that’s an excuse for being lazy.
Day 16 - The Right Thing?
Sometimes, I wish doing the right thing meant doing the easy thing.
When you feel like you're at your wit's end, it doesn't always come to
your mind as the first thing to do. However, I will act based on what is consistent with my character. That's a willful desire to act based on the character I strive to obtain. (See earlier post on working out said character.)
Day 17 & 19 are in the books, but I don't think I have anything from day 18. Not a bad average, to date.
This writing inspiration, by the way (see-I typed it out, kids), comes from my talented wife's encouragement of others to join her in a 100-day writing effort. She's sharing her talents, and her story, at jillriley.blogspot.com. Check it out. You will see how amazing she is.
Day 17 & 19 are in the books, but I don't think I have anything from day 18. Not a bad average, to date.
This writing inspiration, by the way (see-I typed it out, kids), comes from my talented wife's encouragement of others to join her in a 100-day writing effort. She's sharing her talents, and her story, at jillriley.blogspot.com. Check it out. You will see how amazing she is.
Monday, October 24, 2016
Day 15 - 23,126,400 minutes
Twenty-three million, one hundred twenty-six thousand, four hundred minutes.
You have to add some thirty-second notes, or maybe sixty-fourth notes to make that fit the song from Rent.
How do you measure, measure a life?
In cars? 17 owned
In addresses? 16, I believe, in 14 domiciles (but only one in the last 19 years).
In towns? 10
In schools? 8
In full-time jobs? 6 (one in two, different stints)
In kids? 4
In countries visited? 3
In wives? 1
In games called? over 900 In total hours flown? 554.1 In hours worked? Roughly 51,500 hours
I think I'll stick with the song. I'll measure it in love. Love from many. Love for many. Immeasurable love from God above.
You have to add some thirty-second notes, or maybe sixty-fourth notes to make that fit the song from Rent.
How do you measure, measure a life?
In cars? 17 owned
In addresses? 16, I believe, in 14 domiciles (but only one in the last 19 years).
In towns? 10
In schools? 8
In full-time jobs? 6 (one in two, different stints)
In kids? 4
In countries visited? 3
In wives? 1
In games called? over 900 In total hours flown? 554.1 In hours worked? Roughly 51,500 hours
I think I'll stick with the song. I'll measure it in love. Love from many. Love for many. Immeasurable love from God above.
Day 14 - Plankeye
Well, I cannot credit Jon Warneke for coining the term plankeye, as it appears that there was a Christian alternative band with said name. Nevertheless, the point is made. How many times have I went to help someone out with the speck in their eye and smacked them up side the head with the plank in mine?
If you're unfamiliar with the story, see Matthew 7:1-5 from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. I appreciate Eugene Peterson's paraphrase of the section in The Message:
Jon notes that plankeye leads one to say, "You are wrong and even though I am wrong, I am right." We may do it out of pride, arrogance, exclusivity, or something else. But, it gets away from what Jesus spent the previous two chapters of the Sermon discussing. One needs to be reviewing one's character and acting as Jesus commands. We aren't suppose to do it the way the world does it, but the way Jesus tells us. Otherwise, we are just foolish men who build our houses on the sand.
Jesus used hyperbole (speck vs. plank or camel/eye of the needle) to make a point. Why should we criticize someone else for a fault if we're blind to our own considerable faults? (NIV Study Bible notes on Luke 6:41)
It's not that we aren't suppose to judge, but that we're not to judge hypocritically or self-righteously. Why? Because we're not the ones with the authority to pronounce judgment. That belongs to God. However, God did put within each of us the ability to discern right and wrong. It's what Paul writes to the Romans about in the second chapter, in talking about the law of God being written on our hearts, so that we're without excuse.
If I should correct a fellow believer (not a non-believer), Jon reminded what Paul was getting at in Galatians 6:1 - I better be led by the Spirit, have a heart for restoration and be acting in humility and gently, or I'm just a hypocrite.
God, surgically remove the plank from my eyes.
If you're unfamiliar with the story, see Matthew 7:1-5 from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. I appreciate Eugene Peterson's paraphrase of the section in The Message:
Don’t pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults— unless, of course, you want the same treatment. That critical spirit has a way of boomeranging. It’s easy to see a smudge on your neighbor’s face and be oblivious to the ugly sneer on your own. Do you have the nerve to say, ‘Let me wash your face for you,’ when your own face is distorted by contempt? It’s this whole traveling road-show mentality all over again, playing a holier-than-thou part instead of just living your part. Wipe that ugly sneer off your own face, and you might be fit to offer a washcloth to your neighbor.
Matthew 7:1-5 MSG"Playing a holier-than-thou part instead of just living your part." The Bard noted some time after that "All the world's a stage, and all the men are merely players." We all have our parts, and it's what God's given us in this life. Don't be jumping on others unless you expect them to jump back, and not in the 80's sense.
Jon notes that plankeye leads one to say, "You are wrong and even though I am wrong, I am right." We may do it out of pride, arrogance, exclusivity, or something else. But, it gets away from what Jesus spent the previous two chapters of the Sermon discussing. One needs to be reviewing one's character and acting as Jesus commands. We aren't suppose to do it the way the world does it, but the way Jesus tells us. Otherwise, we are just foolish men who build our houses on the sand.
Jesus used hyperbole (speck vs. plank or camel/eye of the needle) to make a point. Why should we criticize someone else for a fault if we're blind to our own considerable faults? (NIV Study Bible notes on Luke 6:41)
It's not that we aren't suppose to judge, but that we're not to judge hypocritically or self-righteously. Why? Because we're not the ones with the authority to pronounce judgment. That belongs to God. However, God did put within each of us the ability to discern right and wrong. It's what Paul writes to the Romans about in the second chapter, in talking about the law of God being written on our hearts, so that we're without excuse.
If I should correct a fellow believer (not a non-believer), Jon reminded what Paul was getting at in Galatians 6:1 - I better be led by the Spirit, have a heart for restoration and be acting in humility and gently, or I'm just a hypocrite.
God, surgically remove the plank from my eyes.
Saturday, October 22, 2016
Days 11-13
I have written topics for each of the past three days about intimacy, anger and emotions--why do we need them? But, I'm not posting them as of now. I'd like to share with a few for their feedback, but it's not for public consumption at this point. Nevertheless, this deliberate introspection is a good thing, I think.
Day 10 - Integrity
The etymology of words fascinates me. I've subscribed to
Merriam-Webster's "Word of the Day" e-mail for, oh, ten or more years
now. Personal goals have been set before to utilize the respective Word
of the Day in a social media post, or in a broadcast, or in a work
e-mail--with a limited success rate. For example, today's (October 19)
WOTD is colubrine - adj. :of, relating to, or resembling a snake.
Sometimes it's hard to incorporate said word. In a recent picture my wife posted on Facebook, I would have said, "The colubrine water hose peeked out of the snow covering our back patio, trying to slither its way over the fence into the backyard." Nevertheless, I want to continue learning and make use of what I learn, and that includes expanding my vocabulary.
When speaking or teaching, I often share the meaning and history of words/discussion terms used to hopefully add meaning and understanding, especially the nuances between denotations and the connotations ascribed to words. That predisposition led the Parkhill youth group kids (and my kids) nicknaming me Webster. I guess I'm kind of like Mr. Portokalos in My Big, Fat Greek Wedding, except I acknowledge that not ever word in the English language derives from Greek (however, a fair number do--"There you go.").
A word that circulates through my head often, and especially in the last number of months, is integrity. Here is Merriam-Webster's definition:
Sometimes it's hard to incorporate said word. In a recent picture my wife posted on Facebook, I would have said, "The colubrine water hose peeked out of the snow covering our back patio, trying to slither its way over the fence into the backyard." Nevertheless, I want to continue learning and make use of what I learn, and that includes expanding my vocabulary.
When speaking or teaching, I often share the meaning and history of words/discussion terms used to hopefully add meaning and understanding, especially the nuances between denotations and the connotations ascribed to words. That predisposition led the Parkhill youth group kids (and my kids) nicknaming me Webster. I guess I'm kind of like Mr. Portokalos in My Big, Fat Greek Wedding, except I acknowledge that not ever word in the English language derives from Greek (however, a fair number do--"There you go.").
A word that circulates through my head often, and especially in the last number of months, is integrity. Here is Merriam-Webster's definition:
integrity
noun in·teg·ri·ty \in-ˈte-grə-tē\Simple Definition of integrity
-
: the quality of being honest and fair
-
: the state of being complete or whole
Full Definition of integrity
-
1 : firm adherence to a code of especially moral or artistic values : incorruptibility
-
2 : an unimpaired condition : soundness
-
3 : the quality or state of being complete or undivided : completeness
Origin and Etymology of integrity
Middle English integrite, from Middle French & Latin; Middle French integrité, from Latin integritat-, integritas, from integr-, integer entire
First Known Use: 14th century
We often used integrity to talk about structural soundness or quality of an artistic work, but it's the first definition listed above that rings through my head. And, when discussing a person, it's the synonyms of character, decency, goodness, honesty, that I want to resonate in my life. I want it to show in my professional life and in my personal life. That requires my entire being to be sound, undivided, complete.
On Monday evening, I met with my flight student who is at the end of course point to review his paperwork and prepare his application for the check ride--or so we thought. Upon review of his logbook and training records, I found he was short by almost an hour of the 3.0 hours required for simulated instrument training. I later found that his solo cross-country flight didn't meet the criteria specified in the regulations. These definitely were issues to be addressed.
With the student having worked with multiple instructors previously, there are numerous things that could have caused this problem: clerical errors in the training system or in his logbook, an oversight by an instructor on the particular lesson's requirements, an honest mistake, etc. So, how to remedy the problem?
Could we have revised his logbook and training records to add on those lessons where it was required the .2 or .3 hours to make the totals match what was required? Sure, as the integrity of the more structured Part 141 course in which he's enrolled usually ensures that the training happens logically and in sequence. So, I could chalk it up to clerical errors, but when things were missing in both the logbook and training system entry, that didn't seem the likely possibility. And, to fabricate entries to satisfy requirements could definitely affect the integrity of the student's training, especially with such an important skill that may be required in an emergency. Trying to check the boxes to satisfy an application isn't worth risking a student's life.
So, I inquired with the lead flight instructor that evening and then with the director of flight operations the next morning concerning how we could proceed. They concurred with the assessment that we needed to supplement training to ensure the requirements were properly met, and that the school would pay for the two extra flights required to do so. It was the right thing to do. The director thanked me for advocating for my student. It wasn't difficult, as it was the right thing to do to ensure his training was complete.
If only personal integrity was always as easy. It's something for which I consistently strive. But, there are times where I feel like Paul did in his writing to the Romans, "For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out." "What a wretched man I am!"
It's more than just being seen as a person of character, one who is decent, honest, moral. It's about being a whole being. Complete. Jesus calls for us to follow God's example of perfect love in Matthew 5. Not that that one will ever be complete/perftect this side of heaven, but one can definitely make it a goal, right? Maybe it goes with what James says about perseverance being able to finish its work so one can be mature and complete.
I want to be a man of integrity, in every sense of the word.
First Known Use: 14th century
Synonyms
character, decency, goodness, honesty, morality, probity, rectitude, righteousness, rightness, uprightness, virtue, virtuousnessWe often used integrity to talk about structural soundness or quality of an artistic work, but it's the first definition listed above that rings through my head. And, when discussing a person, it's the synonyms of character, decency, goodness, honesty, that I want to resonate in my life. I want it to show in my professional life and in my personal life. That requires my entire being to be sound, undivided, complete.
On Monday evening, I met with my flight student who is at the end of course point to review his paperwork and prepare his application for the check ride--or so we thought. Upon review of his logbook and training records, I found he was short by almost an hour of the 3.0 hours required for simulated instrument training. I later found that his solo cross-country flight didn't meet the criteria specified in the regulations. These definitely were issues to be addressed.
With the student having worked with multiple instructors previously, there are numerous things that could have caused this problem: clerical errors in the training system or in his logbook, an oversight by an instructor on the particular lesson's requirements, an honest mistake, etc. So, how to remedy the problem?
Could we have revised his logbook and training records to add on those lessons where it was required the .2 or .3 hours to make the totals match what was required? Sure, as the integrity of the more structured Part 141 course in which he's enrolled usually ensures that the training happens logically and in sequence. So, I could chalk it up to clerical errors, but when things were missing in both the logbook and training system entry, that didn't seem the likely possibility. And, to fabricate entries to satisfy requirements could definitely affect the integrity of the student's training, especially with such an important skill that may be required in an emergency. Trying to check the boxes to satisfy an application isn't worth risking a student's life.
So, I inquired with the lead flight instructor that evening and then with the director of flight operations the next morning concerning how we could proceed. They concurred with the assessment that we needed to supplement training to ensure the requirements were properly met, and that the school would pay for the two extra flights required to do so. It was the right thing to do. The director thanked me for advocating for my student. It wasn't difficult, as it was the right thing to do to ensure his training was complete.
If only personal integrity was always as easy. It's something for which I consistently strive. But, there are times where I feel like Paul did in his writing to the Romans, "For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out." "What a wretched man I am!"
It's more than just being seen as a person of character, one who is decent, honest, moral. It's about being a whole being. Complete. Jesus calls for us to follow God's example of perfect love in Matthew 5. Not that that one will ever be complete/perftect this side of heaven, but one can definitely make it a goal, right? Maybe it goes with what James says about perseverance being able to finish its work so one can be mature and complete.
I want to be a man of integrity, in every sense of the word.
Wednesday, October 19, 2016
Day 8 - Situational Awareness
I'm currently flying with two student pilots. One of them is brand new
to the program this fall. The other started flying spring semester last
year and is finishing up the private pilot course
For my more experienced student, it's been an interesting thing to begin working with him after he's already completed three quarters of the course. It doesn't give one the opportunity to use the learning principle of primacy, as in many ways, he's already established patterns and methods of procedures. It's more a lesson in recency. And, given that he's preparing to take his check ride, it's my duty to make sure he's ready and that everything is in order.
The penultimate flight in the syllabus is final opportunity for the instructor to ensure the student is ready for the End of Course (EOC) oral and flight exam. That check ride covers many things. Along with checking the applicant's knowledge of systems, weather, airspace, numerous areas of emphasis, performance of standard maneuvers, traffic pattern work, takeoffs and landings, and emergency procedures. Ultimately, the question is, "Can the applicant safely and successfully command the aircraft from preflight to post-flight?
One of the things a check airman or designated pilot examiner (DPE) reviews on the check ride is a student's ability to plan a cross-country flight, using those navigation systems available in the aircraft and the all-important skills of pilotage and dead reckoning (eyeballs, a map, a plotter and computations). Not only does the DPE review the plan, but they start out the exam flight as though they're heading on said trip.
As I have not have the ability to fly a cross country with this student, I asked him to plan a flight so that I could review it with him. We did so on the ground, and although the student's mileage, ground speed, and fuel burn calculations looked good, his course numbers didn't appear to match the course he had drawn out on the map. Thinking he'd backed up his plan with radio navigation (seeing the course plotted along a Victor airway), I wanted to see how the student would react when his flight wasn't going to according to plan. And, given that we were pushing into the hours after sunset, I also wanted to see how he did with the added difficulty of changing conditions (losing daylight and a solid broken layer).
The student did the preflight inspection and had prepared the cabin well, a reflection of good single pilot resource management (SRM) which we had discussed after a couple of previous flights. It gave me some hope. Except, during the Before Takeoff checklist task of setting COM/NAV (entering the proper frequencies and identifying nav stations to be used), he didn't set his nav course. Hmm.
Not too long after departure, when we flew over the radio navigation station that also began the airway and the heading selected didn't match, it became evident to this instructor that the flight wasn't going to go according to plan.
After reaching the top of climb (an important checkpoint for fuel consumption calculations and flight planning), I asked the student where his check point for such was on the map. He had chosen a town to be used for such, and noted it would be off his left wing, which it was, although at a greater distance than he realized. As the student changed heading for his next checkpoint, it became more evident that he was getting farther off course. This will of course happen sometimes when the actual winds aloft are different than the forecast. So, I let it go on for about 20 minutes before I asked the student to identify where he was on the map and in relation to his plan course. After fumbling around numerous times in the dark cockpit for his map and his plotter, he came to the realization that he was well off course (over five miles).
I asked the student how he thought the fight was going. He answered, rather sullenly, "Not very well." I concurred, but I wanted to help him realize what he could use to rectify the situation. While he knew he was not flying his plan, we discussed what tools could be used to help with situational awareness. We then tackled one of the other tough topics of aircraft navigation, diverting to an unplanned location.
For those with good spatial orientation, using a map to divert isn't an overly difficult thing to do. However, if the student isn't sure of his location, situational awareness can be a big factor. I, and a few instructors before me, noticed situational awareness to be an issue with this student. As such, I have been working intently on helping the student to use all resources available to him to determine and maintain situational awareness.
After asking the student to divert to a certain airport, I watched him try and figure out where that airport was and how he was going to get there. Again, darkness masked some of the landmarks he would've normally use. However, the lights of towns and cars on the interstate set against the dark backdrop of the ground helped him out. Although initially he correctly identified the town, he then doubted his spacial orientation, which led him to start to head towards another town in the opposite direction.
Once again, as an instructor, one wants to use teaching moments when possible and give the student tools to be successful. So, I asked him what other tools he could use to verify his location and new destination. He made use of the multiple navigation systems in the aircraft to pinpoint our location and head towards our new, alternate destination. We did a flyover an the non-towered airport, then a touch and go before heading back to our home airport. (We subsequently did a follow-up flight where the plan was subsequently executed satisfactorily).
As with flying, situational awareness is very important in numerous circumstances. I try and stress that when I'm teaching my children how to drive. Whether it's a trip across town or across the country, you need to have a plan, know where you're at and how to handle detours when they arise. I've tried to set an example for them when we go on a road trips, telling them (when they're interested) our planned route, or having them navigate while I drive. It's hard to figure out where you're going if you don't know where you are currently.
When life happens, one has to maintain situational awareness in order to navigate those events. Without using all available resources, it is easy to become lost, especially when detour are required. As pilots, we sometimes want to avoid the fact that we have made a mistake, and especially admit when we are lost. However, there are "5 Cs" that we do to help remedy that situation. Confess, Climb, Conserve, Communicate and Comply. (Circle is sometimes added as a sixth).
More importantly, we need to remember that God provides us with the tools needed to maintain situational awareness in life, so that we don't keep getting lost. If we don't use them, who's fault is it but our own?
For my more experienced student, it's been an interesting thing to begin working with him after he's already completed three quarters of the course. It doesn't give one the opportunity to use the learning principle of primacy, as in many ways, he's already established patterns and methods of procedures. It's more a lesson in recency. And, given that he's preparing to take his check ride, it's my duty to make sure he's ready and that everything is in order.
The penultimate flight in the syllabus is final opportunity for the instructor to ensure the student is ready for the End of Course (EOC) oral and flight exam. That check ride covers many things. Along with checking the applicant's knowledge of systems, weather, airspace, numerous areas of emphasis, performance of standard maneuvers, traffic pattern work, takeoffs and landings, and emergency procedures. Ultimately, the question is, "Can the applicant safely and successfully command the aircraft from preflight to post-flight?
One of the things a check airman or designated pilot examiner (DPE) reviews on the check ride is a student's ability to plan a cross-country flight, using those navigation systems available in the aircraft and the all-important skills of pilotage and dead reckoning (eyeballs, a map, a plotter and computations). Not only does the DPE review the plan, but they start out the exam flight as though they're heading on said trip.
As I have not have the ability to fly a cross country with this student, I asked him to plan a flight so that I could review it with him. We did so on the ground, and although the student's mileage, ground speed, and fuel burn calculations looked good, his course numbers didn't appear to match the course he had drawn out on the map. Thinking he'd backed up his plan with radio navigation (seeing the course plotted along a Victor airway), I wanted to see how the student would react when his flight wasn't going to according to plan. And, given that we were pushing into the hours after sunset, I also wanted to see how he did with the added difficulty of changing conditions (losing daylight and a solid broken layer).
The student did the preflight inspection and had prepared the cabin well, a reflection of good single pilot resource management (SRM) which we had discussed after a couple of previous flights. It gave me some hope. Except, during the Before Takeoff checklist task of setting COM/NAV (entering the proper frequencies and identifying nav stations to be used), he didn't set his nav course. Hmm.
Not too long after departure, when we flew over the radio navigation station that also began the airway and the heading selected didn't match, it became evident to this instructor that the flight wasn't going to go according to plan.
After reaching the top of climb (an important checkpoint for fuel consumption calculations and flight planning), I asked the student where his check point for such was on the map. He had chosen a town to be used for such, and noted it would be off his left wing, which it was, although at a greater distance than he realized. As the student changed heading for his next checkpoint, it became more evident that he was getting farther off course. This will of course happen sometimes when the actual winds aloft are different than the forecast. So, I let it go on for about 20 minutes before I asked the student to identify where he was on the map and in relation to his plan course. After fumbling around numerous times in the dark cockpit for his map and his plotter, he came to the realization that he was well off course (over five miles).
I asked the student how he thought the fight was going. He answered, rather sullenly, "Not very well." I concurred, but I wanted to help him realize what he could use to rectify the situation. While he knew he was not flying his plan, we discussed what tools could be used to help with situational awareness. We then tackled one of the other tough topics of aircraft navigation, diverting to an unplanned location.
For those with good spatial orientation, using a map to divert isn't an overly difficult thing to do. However, if the student isn't sure of his location, situational awareness can be a big factor. I, and a few instructors before me, noticed situational awareness to be an issue with this student. As such, I have been working intently on helping the student to use all resources available to him to determine and maintain situational awareness.
After asking the student to divert to a certain airport, I watched him try and figure out where that airport was and how he was going to get there. Again, darkness masked some of the landmarks he would've normally use. However, the lights of towns and cars on the interstate set against the dark backdrop of the ground helped him out. Although initially he correctly identified the town, he then doubted his spacial orientation, which led him to start to head towards another town in the opposite direction.
Once again, as an instructor, one wants to use teaching moments when possible and give the student tools to be successful. So, I asked him what other tools he could use to verify his location and new destination. He made use of the multiple navigation systems in the aircraft to pinpoint our location and head towards our new, alternate destination. We did a flyover an the non-towered airport, then a touch and go before heading back to our home airport. (We subsequently did a follow-up flight where the plan was subsequently executed satisfactorily).
As with flying, situational awareness is very important in numerous circumstances. I try and stress that when I'm teaching my children how to drive. Whether it's a trip across town or across the country, you need to have a plan, know where you're at and how to handle detours when they arise. I've tried to set an example for them when we go on a road trips, telling them (when they're interested) our planned route, or having them navigate while I drive. It's hard to figure out where you're going if you don't know where you are currently.
When life happens, one has to maintain situational awareness in order to navigate those events. Without using all available resources, it is easy to become lost, especially when detour are required. As pilots, we sometimes want to avoid the fact that we have made a mistake, and especially admit when we are lost. However, there are "5 Cs" that we do to help remedy that situation. Confess, Climb, Conserve, Communicate and Comply. (Circle is sometimes added as a sixth).
- Confess--admit you are lost
- Climb--altitude helps you get the big picture (literally), keeps you out of terrain and gives you more options should you have an engine failure
- Conserve--reduce power, which slows your airspeed and fuel consumption
- Communicate--contact ATC or FSS to confess and give your last known location
- Comply--Follow the instructions given by ATC, FSS and/or your navigation systems to get back on course, or head to safety.
More importantly, we need to remember that God provides us with the tools needed to maintain situational awareness in life, so that we don't keep getting lost. If we don't use them, who's fault is it but our own?
Monday, October 17, 2016
Day 7 - "God knows."
Jesus has authority, all authority in heaven and on Earth, that was given to him by God the Father. He came to Earth to live out that authority while in the frail, temporal form that is our human body. He became flesh and dwelt among us. He grew in wisdom and stature, learning what it was like to be human. He was tempted in all points like we are, yet he was without sin.
We know that Jesus' words--even as a boy--amazed those who heard them, especially since he didn't come from a prestigious background. He always took responsibility for his words and his actions. And, Jesus took responsibility for his emotions.
Even being tempted in the desert, or while praying in the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus could have used his trump card to get out of what had been planned for him since the foundation of the worlds. But, he took responsibility for his authority, fulfilling his mission by remaining in control of himself.
I was reminded at church this morning that God knows where we are. He knows what we are going through. Jesus reminded us in the Sermon on the Mount that we shouldn't worry about what we eat, drink, wear, even the hairs on our head or the number of minutes in our lives. Rather, we should seek God's kingdom and his righteousness first. Then, these things will be added unto us. Why? Because God knows who we are and where we are? Yes, but, I'm reminded tonight that God knows the how and why of who, what, where and when we are.
God knows what it's like to hurt as a human. He knows what it's like to be shamed, guilted, invalidated, neglected, abused, abandoned. He knows what it's like to be framed for things, to be accused of capital crimes. Yet, he didn't sin. Not once. He was responsible for his feelings and acted appropriately. He was responsible for his words and acted as such. He was responsible for his authority given to him. And so, he asks for us to do the same, having provided both the perfect example in Jesus, and the Counselor/Comforter in the Holy Spirit to reminded us that he knows what it's like where we are and what's happening.
I am not responsible for other people's actions (unless I somehow manipulated or exerted authority over them). I am not responsible for other people's words. I am not responsible for other people's emotions.
I am responsible for my actions. I am responsible for my tongue. I am responsible for my emotions. I am responsible for those over whom I've been given some sort of authority. And, I follow Christ's example to do such, because God knows.
Thursday, October 13, 2016
Days 3 & 4 - done
I did write on both days 3 and 4, but I'm not posting them in their entirety. The keys from them:
- Day 3
- I've had numerous reminders that God is in control of my life, and that I need to remember to turn to him. I've known that. I've seen that. I need to continue to trust that he is directing my steps.
- Day 4
- I need to be emotionally intelligent (PMIMT seminar last Saturday was a timely reminder)
- When I'm emotionally hijacked, I'm not thinking clearly. I've had no tigers jump out at me to cause the fight response that wells up. I will be in control my emotions.
- James says, "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." (James 1:19)
- Perhaps emotional intelligence isn't such a "new" idea
Tuesday, October 11, 2016
Day 2 - Kyle's 8 Fs
It caused me to ponder. Can I narrow down my goals list down to the most important things in a few words? After rattling off the usual suspects, "Faith, family, friends..." I went to one of the big, empty whiteboards in my office to write them down. In doing so, I also went down the alliteration rabbit hole, as all good points/illustrations/mnemonics should be catchy, right?
"Fitness, finances, flying." That was six, but I put flying on there as it relates to a career goal, and I couldn't come up with a synonym for career or job that started with the letter "F."
In all of these things, I thought there should be elements of freedom and fun. And so, I ended up with my 8 Fs. While it seem clever, at least memorable, it also made me think that on a traditional grading scale, Fs are not a good thing to see. And, when I grade myself on prioritization of these items, I find myself noting various seasons where I've assigned that grade to my lack of prioritization...sometimes in multiple areas.
There have definitely been times where the order has been switched, and not in the healthiest of listings. While always trying to keep the first two at the top, as the primary provider for my family, for me, finances have often fell right under family in the list. That too often wiped out friends and fitness.
The goal, especially for the last ten years after going through FPU (there's a lot of "Fs" here), has been to free us from debt, so that we can have freedom and fun, both in the short and long term. After financing my instrumental rating and commercial certificate prior to that course, it meant to me that I needed to put flying aside until I could pay for the CFI out of pocket; that came three years later. That, to me, was worth delaying the pursuit to get my family closer to freedom.
Alas, the extra work required to try and meet those financial goals--which were delayed as life happens with a family of six--robbed one of my most important resources, time. It not only robbed me of it, it robbed my family of it. How does that grade out?
And, when you try to work through frustration with multiple goals by working 90-100 hours a week, you get more Fs, the grade type, and less of the prioritized list for which you were working in the first place. That's failure.
So, I have the current order above. My goal is the keep the first three at the top, in the order listed. The bottom three will switch around, but they cannot come above the top two, which are most dearest to me, faith and family.
Monday, October 10, 2016
Who am I?
After reading my wife's encouragement to others on Facebook to join her in a similar endeavor to her 100-day journaling project at jillriley.blogspot.com--one that I think is must-read material--I've been debating about doing just that. I'm not sure that I'll make it entirely public. In fact, I'm certain that I will not make it all public, perhaps certain days that might resonate with others. And, being as how I've never been one to consistently journal, it will be a challenge to make it seven days, let alone a hundred. However, I think introspection in written form would be very beneficial to me. So, here's Day 1.
It's two weeks until my forty-fourth birthday (if I finish this in the next fifty-three minutes and thirty seconds). That seems strange to write. I've yet to feel like I'm a middle-aged man. I don't think I fit the complete caricature of Mike Myers' SNL skit, save some of his "super" powers and the gut (I'm working on it). Oh, and when I have an injury, sports-related or otherwise, I've noticed it doesn't heal very quickly. Nevertheless, time keeps on slippin'... (you're welcome for the Steve Miller Band ear worm).
But, the question that I've been pondering a lot over the past few years remains. Who am I?
I can go with what I've listed for my Twitter profile: Pastor's husband to@ejillriley,
proud father of a US airman & 3 teens, Montanan, CFI, play-by-play,
project mgr, Mariners & Vikings fan. Working on patience.
That list is accurate, albeit incomplete, as far as describing me. But, does it describe who I am?
I can list other descriptors/roles: son, brother, friend, musician, extrovert, teacher, former board member, former coach. But, does that say who I am?
"What do your friends say about you?" Friendly, fun-loving, corny, kind, caring, romantic (read sappy), trustworthy, loyal, good work ethic, provides for his family, someone with a good memory, annoying game winner. At least, I think that's what they say.
Oh, sure, I can go the Biblical route and proclaim that I am a child of God, a sinner saved by grace thanks to a salvific faith in Christ. But, there are millions of others who can make that claim. And, while I know I've been uniquely made, and given certain gifts and skills that I've used with varying degrees of success, I still question, "Who am I?"
I just opened up my list of goals that I first created on my 34th birthday. Of the 21 that are currently listed, only one is crossed off, and that one came at great price. I have one that definitely has been carried out over six of the past seven years, but I don't feel I can cross it off yet; I don't want it to be complete. There are four or five others that are in process, but the rest? Well, I've got a long ways to go. But, do my goals answer the question of who I am?
In light of recent history, I have been trying to determine the answer to this question. I need to be able to answer this question. I want to be able to readily share that answer and be able to say it confidently, as though the answer means something.
It's my current mission.
It's two weeks until my forty-fourth birthday (if I finish this in the next fifty-three minutes and thirty seconds). That seems strange to write. I've yet to feel like I'm a middle-aged man. I don't think I fit the complete caricature of Mike Myers' SNL skit, save some of his "super" powers and the gut (I'm working on it). Oh, and when I have an injury, sports-related or otherwise, I've noticed it doesn't heal very quickly. Nevertheless, time keeps on slippin'... (you're welcome for the Steve Miller Band ear worm).
But, the question that I've been pondering a lot over the past few years remains. Who am I?
I can go with what I've listed for my Twitter profile: Pastor's husband to
That list is accurate, albeit incomplete, as far as describing me. But, does it describe who I am?
I can list other descriptors/roles: son, brother, friend, musician, extrovert, teacher, former board member, former coach. But, does that say who I am?
"What do your friends say about you?" Friendly, fun-loving, corny, kind, caring, romantic (read sappy), trustworthy, loyal, good work ethic, provides for his family, someone with a good memory, annoying game winner. At least, I think that's what they say.
Oh, sure, I can go the Biblical route and proclaim that I am a child of God, a sinner saved by grace thanks to a salvific faith in Christ. But, there are millions of others who can make that claim. And, while I know I've been uniquely made, and given certain gifts and skills that I've used with varying degrees of success, I still question, "Who am I?"
I just opened up my list of goals that I first created on my 34th birthday. Of the 21 that are currently listed, only one is crossed off, and that one came at great price. I have one that definitely has been carried out over six of the past seven years, but I don't feel I can cross it off yet; I don't want it to be complete. There are four or five others that are in process, but the rest? Well, I've got a long ways to go. But, do my goals answer the question of who I am?
In light of recent history, I have been trying to determine the answer to this question. I need to be able to answer this question. I want to be able to readily share that answer and be able to say it confidently, as though the answer means something.
It's my current mission.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)