Alertness: A Lesson from a Helicopter Ride

Dear friends, today I’d like to share a tale from my younger days, a tale that taught me the importance of alertness. It’s a story about a helicopter ride that I’ll never forget. So, grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let’s embark on this journey together.

The Adventure Begins

It was the summer of ’76, and I was a young man full of ambition and thirst for adventure. An opportunity arose for me to take a helicopter ride over the breathtaking landscapes of the Grand Canyon. I was thrilled, to say the least. Little did I know, this ride would turn into a lesson that would stay with me for a lifetime.

The Unexpected Turn

As we soared over the majestic cliffs and valleys, our pilot suddenly fell ill. He was experienced and skilled, but even the best of us are not immune to the unpredictability of life. The controls were now in the hands of a novice co-pilot. I could see the fear in his eyes, mirroring my own.

The Lesson of Alertness

Despite the fear, I realized that panic would not help. I had to stay alert. I remembered my father’s words, “Alertness is not just about being aware of your surroundings, but also about understanding the situation and making the right decisions.” I focused on the co-pilot, guiding him with the little knowledge I had about helicopters.

With every passing second, I became more aware of the importance of alertness. It was not just about survival, but about taking control of the situation. We managed to land safely, thanks to the co-pilot’s courage and my newfound understanding of alertness.

Carrying the Lesson Forward

Life is unpredictable, just like that helicopter ride. But if we stay alert, we can navigate through the toughest of times. Alertness is not just about physical awareness, but also about mental readiness. It’s about being prepared for the unexpected, making the right decisions, and taking control of the situation.

So, my dear friends, stay alert. Be aware of your surroundings, understand the situation, and make the right decisions. Remember, alertness can be the difference between a crash landing and a safe one.

Until next time, stay safe and stay alert.

Kev