As an old pilot (started flying in 1956) and a Trainer in Ericksonian Hypnosis & Brief Psychotherapy, I often use flying stories metaphorically. The following story was told to me by Al Masetti, M.A., NBCCH. Al also is a pilot.

I tell this story when a student asks if the traditional form of hypnotherapy or the Ericksonian approach is best.

Fighters vs. Transports

A couple of A-10's fighter planes are escorting a C-130 Hercules transport and their pilots were chatting with the pilot of the transport to pass the time.

Talk fell on the subject of relative merits of their respective aircraft with the fighter pilots saying their planes were better because of their maneuverability, weaponry, speed and the like.

The C-130 transport pilot replied "Yeah? Well I can do a few things in this old girl that you'd only dream about."

Naturally, he was challenged to demonstrate. "Just watch," he tells them.

The C-130 continues to fly straight and level, and after several minutes the C-130 pilot returns to the air and says, "There! How was that?"

Not having seen anything happened, the fighter pilots say, "What are you talking about? What did you do?"

The C-130 pilot replies, "Well, I got up, stretched my legs, got a cup of coffee, then went back and used the
bathroom.

Ron Klein, NBCCH Executive Director for Administration
Email: aims@erols.com