This essay outlines the key lessons I re-learned about teaching adults when I decided to earn my private pilot license. I faced a steep learning curve and needed to conquer my fear of falling from the sky when learning required flight maneuvers. The lessons are not about adult development or learning theories or instructional techniques. The lessons are more basic and central to our daily work as educators. These lessons are about empathy, understanding, and building relationships in order to enhance an adult learner's motivation to learn and foster a passion for continued learning.