Who Does He Think He Is? An Excerpt From Commitment-a Novel

     “John, I know you are tolerating the time here you aren’t flying. After all, you’ve made quite an impression on the other pilots and mechanics,” said Steve a few weeks later over after-dinner coffee.
     “I guess my background as a crew chief and mechanic actually came in handy.”
     “All the other families talk about how you’ve been helping out with teaching. Some of the pilots say you are a natural with air frames and power plants,” Rachel, Steve’s wife said.
     “That’s all fine, but what about Jason? I need to earn his respect or something. I’ve got to figure out how to make him see I’m ready to start some serious flying.”
     “I really don’t think that will be too far into the future.”
John noticed Rachel’s pursing lips and quivering chin, her attempt to hide a mischievous smile.
     “Okay, guys, what’s going on? I’ve only known you a little while, but nonetheless, too well.”
     “It’s like this. No matter how you imagine your relationship with Jason, he respects you tremendously. But he knows your heart isn’t in it for the long haul,” said Steve.
     “Who does he think...,” said John.
     “Hold on now, let me finish. We’ve had lots of pilots here and each with his own reasons. Some want to be missionaries, some are drawn by danger, and some, like you, love to fly but have future plans that don’t end here,” said Steve.
     “Is that usually a problem?” asked John.
     “Of course not,” Rachel interrupted. “We’ve always accepted everyone who served with us no matter   what motivated them to do so. God has his own way of bringing people into his work.”
     “She’s right. And Jason sees that potential in you. You’ve impressed him thus far, and he is ready to give you more responsibility, right away,” Steve said.
     “I would have never known,” John responded.


Jeffrey W. Bennett, is the author of Commitment-A Novel and other non-fiction books, novels and periodicals.

I want to fly for the airlines-An Excerpt from Commitment

“I’ve taught him everything I know. Especially the few flying restrictions. He likes the idea of uncontrolled airspace,” said Steve.

Jason bristled. “He has to realize uncontrolled airspace or not, I give the final decision about flights.”

“I think John is cool with that. He just has to get used to the idea of falling under your authority and obeying POW-imposed restrictions,” Steve defended.

“That’s your job then. I agree, he is probably more experienced than most of our pilots, but reel him in. It’s not a one-man show.” Jason was hesitant about the idea of giving John a route sooner than usual. “What else?”

“He is aware of weather and terrain dangers. I’ve reiterated that flying in cloud cover and heavy fog is treacherous and unpredictable, strictly prohibited and tightly enforced,” said Steve. “I’ll keep reminding him.”

“Make sure he understands. If not, we’ll keep him in training.”

“Jason, there’s something else.”

Jason flinched as Steve told him of John’s desire to fly for an airline.

Jeffrey W. Bennett, is the author of Commitment-A Novel and other non-fiction books, novels and periodicals. Visit his website http://www.redbikepublishing.com for information on purchasing Commitment, or to learn how to write your own book.

I'm Going to the Airlines-An Excerpt from Commitment-a Novel

CHAPTER 5

 

Commitment-A Novel

     “This is probably one of the toughest landing areas you will eventually take over from me,” said Steve.
     “Who lives here?” asked John. Their landing earned only a few glimpses and a wave from the villagers up the hill. John wasn’t sure, but he thought the half-naked males wore gourds to cover themselves.
     “A branch of the Yali tribe. They inhabit most of the Balium Valley. We won’t stay though. The missionary that served here had to leave for personal reasons. I don’t know when he will be replaced.”
     “Daryl told me that a lot of people end up leaving,” said John. He watched as Steve took the controls and pointed the plane downhill.
    “Try taking off this way,” said Steve. “We do have some leaving. The Lawrences were as dedicated as any, but he had to take care of his family. There are a lot of hardships to being a missionary, but it’s tougher when your children don’t adjust,” said Steve.
     John could feel his stomach drop as the plane lurched skyward.        
      “Dedication to job verses dedication to the family,” he said.
      “It’s going to be just as tough for you,” said Steve. “You’ll get homesick and lonely. Dedication takes on many forms and has many obstacles. I’m sure you are feeling some pangs.”
     “Yeah, I guess I am. I’m not sure I will make it as long as most pilots do,” said John.
     “Oh, in what way?” asked Steve.
     John suddenly felt nervous. “I mean, I have no problem being here but I see myself flying airliners. That’s my future,” said John uncomfortably.
     Steve seemed unfazed.
     “You don’t see that as a problem?” asked John.
     “Somewhat, but I think the Lord has you here for some reason. We’ll just have to work with you while we have you,” said Steve.

Jeffrey W. Bennett, is the author of Commitment-A Novel and other non-fiction books, novels and periodicals.

The Dedication

     “You handled that new runway like the professional you are,” Marta had said.

     “It was a pleasure. We worked hard, and it paid off. I’ll try out the takeoffs, as soon as I get some of the weight out.” Steve had pointed to his plane.

     “You mean there is more?” Marta had marveled at the supplies Steve had already unloaded.

     “Just come back to the plane with me and see,” Steve had said, smiling mischievously.

     Together, Steve and Marta had walked back to the plane.

     “Do you remember when I told you I had another project to take care of?” Steve’s eyes had hardly contained his excitement.

     “Yes, I guess you got it all done. What did you need to do?”

     “Only this.” Steve had reached in and with both hands had struggled with a heavy burden. He pulled half of a canvassed object out and asked one of the men to help remove the covering. “I don’t think an airfield should be without a dedication.”

     Marta’s heart had stopped. Her sparkling eyes had blinked rapidly in an attempt to dam the welling tears. She had bitten her lip hard to stop her quivering chin, but all efforts had failed her. She had read the sign over and over again in those few seconds to capture each letter in her mind. Her tears had fallen, but her face had beamed with pride and approval.

     “Oh, thank you, Steve, thank you. It is so wonderful.”

     One of her closest friends, Numah, who had also lost a husband in the same battle as Raymond, had come to Marta’s aid. Numah did not understand the reason for the happy crying, but had known Marta needed a hug.

     “It’s okay, Numah, this is a wonderful gift from our friends in Tiom,” Marta had said.

     “I hope you like it, Marta. I took a collection up and had this made,” Steve had said.

     “It’s truly beautiful. I know the perfect place for it.”

     Together they had erected the sign reading, “RAYMOND SPRINGER MEMORIAL AIRFIELD.”

     Marta returned from her thoughts as she focused on the plaque. It looks as if it had been made yesterday. She wiped tears and memories away as she forced her mind to the present, then stooped to pull some weeds from the base of the sign and nodded with approval.

Jeffrey W. Bennett, is the author of Commitment-A Novel and other non-fiction books, novels and periodicals.