I was living in Ypsilanti, Michigan- about a 30 minute drive to the airport. I was flying early morning one or two day trips, and was used to leaving my apartment when it was still dark outside!
On this particular morning I woke to the sun in my face! What!!?? I jumped from bed and looked at my electric alarm clock. It was blank- meaning we had lost power. In fact- all the clocks were blank! No electricity. I grabbed the phone. No phone service! I was in a panic! Oh No! I had overslept! And no way to call Crew Scheduling!
Jumping into my uniform, grabbing my makeup bag- I raced out of the apartment to my car. I remember my heart pounding in my throat! I could only pray- "Please God- No!"
Along the way I found a pay phone! I think I dropped the change 2 or 3 times before I got my nerves under control. I got ahold of scheduling to find out my trip had indeed left, with them having to call out a reserve. I needed to call my Supervisor!
Now I knew- I was going to be fired! I called Marlyn Main- the base Supervisor. When she answered the phone I know I was crying.. Between sobs I said I just called to say goodbye! She asked what happened! I told her about the power outage, the phone being out, and how sorry I was to loose my job- saying all this between sobs.
Marlyn Main was quiet for a moment- then said words I'll never forget!
"Take today off, without pay. The company believes you can be rehabilitated! Start fresh on your next flight. And Marcy? Buy yourself a wind up alarm clock!"
After hanging up I stood for a full moment, staring at the phone in my hand! The relief was overwhelming! I think it took another hour for my heart rate to return to normal. And about that long to stop crying- this time from relief!
About an hour after I returned home the electricity and phone came back on!
For some reason I was always tongue tied around Marlyn Main. She had a commanding presence about her. But she was fair and compassionate. I spent the rest of my career forever grateful for her kindness and understanding!
Life Is Indeed An Adventure! And Some Of Those Difficult Moments Remain In Our Memories As A Reminder Of Kindness Shown By Another!
6 comments:
At Northwest Orient, the same rule applied during training.
One day I was late returning from lunch. As I was running down the hall at full speed, I turned the corner and ran smack into the two instructors. They were late also.
I wasn’t released from training but made to stand in front of the class and apologize!
Dear 501- Well, standing and apologizing sure beats being sent home! But I'm sure it was a bit embarrassing! Still, so glad you could continue to have such a wonderful career!
Close call! Did you get that windup alarm clock? I LOVE your stories!
Dear Wilhelmina- Yes- went out that day and bought 2! I'm thrilled you enjoy the stories! Thank you for following along as I meander down memory lane!
My very first time ever flying was to interview with u in msp flew from CWA to msp, o e
loved it and knew I wouldn't be happy till I flew constantly. Thank you. North
Central for being a start to my Career path. I got my dream job because I knew my feet would never stay on the ground. Flying was my life
Dear Unknown Reader- Thank you for your comments! I understand about not wanting the feet to stay on the ground! Perfectly said!
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