The biggest thing in flying is not controlling the airplane but understanding that you are in charge and there is no anyone else who can help you. In the story mentioned above (http://forumserver.twoplustwo.com/34/other-other-topics/prop...) the guy explains clearly that he was panicked to death 30 secs after takeoff. And only the presence of the instructor in the plane helped him to continue. A lot of time during the initial training is spent on teaching the student to make decision, take control over the flight and building confidence in student's ability to fly the plane. Flying the simulator is very different from flying real plane simply because in real life there is no "reload" button.
Absolutely true. The odds of an untrained person safely landing on their first attempt are astronomical, but that doesn't mean you get to throw in the towel. If you are now the pilot, you better start acting like one in short order. First priority is getting the plane straight and level. Pick a distant object and head straight for it. You can't be afraid of the plane or doing something wrong. Of course if its on autopilot just leave it alone, but otherwise you have to take charge and straight and level is the first step. Then get on the radio and ask for help using plain English. But don't delude yourself thinking airplanes land themselves these days. It might make people feel better, but its not true. You are going to need help to have any chance.
