BrianB,

You are right I am not cut out for the self destructive life of a modern pilot. My aim was for a better life; to build a financial empire, to raise a family, to become financially independent.

When I started airline pilots were respected professionals who earned a surgeons wage. Now they are closer to junkies who keep taking beatings from their employers because they can not turn away from the shiny jet.

Aviation today is natural selection at work. Young people who wish to avoid the rigors of adult life go to four years or more of aviation camp and blow 200K or more to become initially certified for a career that is in free fall. These are not the actions of a rational person with an interest in self preservation.

Had I known what lied ahead I certainly would never have taken my first flight lesson. You guys are not in a position yet to be able to take measure of all that this career is costing you. When you do I hope my written words do not come back to haunt you too badly.

Skyhigh

PS Thank you for your inquiry. The family is doing well. We have had a good summer. My business is taking off. As a result I have not had much time to visit APC over the last few months but fall is coming. I will be back then.