Grade
6/7 Class
Beavercrest
School
Markdale,
Ontario
May 5,
2015
Dear the Grade 6/7 class
My apologies for having taken so long to respond to your
letters. I have been quite busy with my
work and a busy family with after school activities etc. as I’m sure you can
understand. I also wanted to make sure
that I had the opportunity to put as much thought into my response as you
obviously put into your letters, and I wanted to answer all of your
questions – of which there are quite a few.
I really do feel honored that you each think that my small
action that night was heroic, but I really do believe that it was not. I was capable, and Ruth wasn’t, so I believe
that I had an obligation to do whatever it was that I was able to do. Many of you stated that you think that the
world needs more people like me, but I believe that MOST people are like
me – including you! I just happened to
be the man who switched seats with Ruth and was close enough to see that she
needed help. I like to think that if I
was not on that plane, but my wife or children were, that there would be people
willing to help them if they needed it.
There are people around the world, every minute of the day
that are doing much more profound, dangerous and selfless acts for other people
than what I did. It’s unfortunate that
the news and media often overlook these acts in favor of reporting more on the
“bad” things that are happening, or people are doing. You might have to look a little harder to
find these “good” stories – but they are there.
To answer your questions;
1) The most popular question of all: What was I thinking while the plane was
crashing?
There are many, many things going
through your mind very quickly in a time of crisis like this, but I can tell
you that (surprisingly) I did not feel afraid.
Beyond the shock of it registering in my mind that it was actually
happening, I was more sad and disappointed at what I thought my family might
have to go through if I did not survive.
My heart hurt for them profoundly.
2) Would I do the same thing again?
Absolutely, and I hope that there
would be someone willing to help me if I needed it.
3) Why do I prefer “Human” to “Hero”?
It’s difficult situations like
this that I believe our “human” obligation to each other is at it’s highest.
4) How did I feel as I carried Ruth?
I was wondering to myself if we
would make it away quick enough and if I had the strength. I was also hoping that my carrying her over
my shoulder in that way and running would not hurt her.
5) Did I have any second thoughts when I saw
that Ruth needed help?
None
6) If I could change anything that happened –
would I?
Not now. Other than wishing that the accident never
happened at all, I believe we were all very lucky that the outcome was not
worse. It was very difficult for me
mentally for a while afterwards, but the huge amount of positivity that
everyone (including you!!) surrounded me with because of that little thing I
did really helped me overcome a tough time – THANK YOU for contributing to
that.
7) After the “fame” what do people think of me?
That’s difficult to answer – but I
don’t think that they think any differently of me, at least I hope not –
because they shouldn’t.
8) Why did it take so long for me to come
forward when I heard that Ruth was looking for me?
I really wasn’t sure that I wanted
the attention – specially at the time, but my friends and family convinced me
to do it because it would mean a great deal to Ruth.
I really want all of you to know that what happened to that
plane is NOT something that happens all the time. It’s a complete anomaly. Most pilots who fly hundreds of times a year
for their 30+ year careers never encounter anything like what occurred.
There will be things that happen in your life that might
scare you, or make you worry. Be smart –
and be safe with your decisions as best your can, but try not to let fear take
away from your ability to live your life with enjoyment.
I got back on an airplane again 3 days after the accident
with my family because it was important for me to do for myself, and to show my
kids they need not be afraid – and neither should you.
I am extremely flattered that you apparently all think so
much of me and what I did, but it really was just “human” – at least to
me. I’m just a regular guy, father,
husband. I have made decisions and done
things in my life that I am proud of, and not so proud of. That’s human.
Thank you all for taking the time and for such kind
thoughts, and thank you Mr. Elkins for being the kind of teacher that shows
your kids that all the news is not necessarily bad news or sensational junk out
of Hollywood.
I do have one request of the Grade 6/7 Beavercrest class
however!! It’s an assignment;
If Mr. Elkins agrees, I would like each of you to research
and find 2 or 3 wonderful, selfless acts that people around the world have done
for each other and share them with each other, and your school.
Thank you!!
I wish each of you all the best in all your endeavors -
wherever that might take you.
Sincerely,
Steve Earle
