On Sat, 26 Jan 2008 09:38:17 -0800 (PST), wrote
in
:

And why on Earth would someone put my name in the thread?

Actually, you put your name is in the 'From:' field of the message you
originally posted yourself. If you have concerns about revealing your
identity, you should take steps to conceal it.

That just seems uncalled for.

It was intended as a slap in the face to get your attention. It's
clear your CFI wasn't able to impart the significance of becoming an
airman to you. That is an area of flight training the FAA seems to
have virtually overlooked. Becoming an airman is (or should be) a
life-changing experience.

It's evident from your post, that you don't yet clearly appreciate
your role in navigating the skies. You are an airman now. If the
_responsibility_ associated with that hasn't dawned on you yet, it
will as you build experiences like the one you related.

You are Pilot In Command! Those with whom and over whom you fly rely
upon YOUR judgment to keep them safe, and that demands that you comply
with regulations ALL THE TIME. If you fail to do that, you have
failed in your responsibility to yourself, your passenger, and all of
your fellow airmen who share the sky with you.

Flying is not a hobby; it serious business, life-and-death business.
If your assessment of the weather forecast for the flight is an issue,
will you have the courage to stand steadfast in your refusal to fly
your companions home from Las Vegas in time for them to clock-in at
work? Or will you permit their complaints to influence you to do
something you know is wrong? They will push you mercilessly to
depart, but tacitly they expect you to keep them safe. You'll have to
firmly assume command of the situation and do what you know is right.
Give it some thought. Please.