As Paul pointed out the other day, one of the most stressful things for us right now is wondering when the baby will arrive. I mean, it’s a good stress, a happy stress, but still…. nothing like the possibility of becoming parents at any moment to remind us how powerless we are over so many things in our lives.
That’s why I don’t like to fly. The powerlessness of it. I’m not in the pilot’s seat, and there’s nothing I can do if something goes wrong.
Granted, I’m not really in control when I’m in traffic. Sure, I’m driving the car, but no matter how safely I drive, I can’t control other drivers or road debris or car malfunctions.
But no matter how many statistics you cite telling me how much safer flying is than driving, I’m not reassured. In addition to my powerlessness in controlling the airplane, I also fear the potential powerlessness of being in a crash. I can’t imagine (well, maybe I can, and that’s the problem!) plummeting through the air for a few seconds AND NOT BEING ABLE TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT.
It’s quite embarrassing, really, especially since I profess faith in an All-Powerful God who controls everything. If I trust that His Will is perfect, why do I worry? Even if the plane crashes, all will be well.
But boy, living that out? That’s rough. I do try to surrender my fear whenever I get on a plane, and I think my faith is the only reason I can get on the plane at all. I still get sweaty palms, though.
My friend Todd has a great solution to the plane/powerlessness problem, though. He suggests that planes install small steering wheels that can pop out of the back of each seat. When the plane encounters a problem, the flight crew can instruct the terrified passengers to help them.
“Quick! Everybody steer left!”
No, it won’t do a bit of good for the plane, but it might go a long way toward calming people like me. We like to be in control, you know.
I have a feeling Ian is going to cause you some sweaty palms. Just guessing. 🙂