My dad walked with me to security and then I made my way down to my terminal, where I'm sitting right now. Everyone looks so tired and upset, and that's just the workers. I asked my dad why everyone who worked at the airport was always in the worst mood and he said, "Well, when I was flying a lot people still enjoyed travel. Then 9/11 happened, and the economy tanked, and the airlines started charging for every little thing, and now it's not as fun anymore."
This is a shame. Once again, maybe it's because I'm not a frequent flyer and I'm preparing to fly and see my best friend that I am so happy to be here. (Also my outfit is flawless today and cute security guy hit on me... that could have something to do with my mood.... maybe)
Do you ever think about how lucky we are that air travel is so accessible to us? If I saved up enough money, I could catch a flight to just about anywhere in the world at almost any time. The world is literally at my fingertips. That is amazing.
One of my favorite past times is people watching. I'll tell you this right now, besides Walmart, the airport is the best place to do this. I love to invent lives for the people around me who are all traveling for different reasons. A young 18 year old heading out to serve God for two years, shaking with fear and missing his family. Shaking with anticipation to get there and start his journey.
The woman with the pretty eyes, smiling to herself while reading a text message. She's going to visit her fiance and has no idea that he will be proposing to her tonight.
The mother and father in the corner flying to take care of their sister in the hospital in a far away state.
The human experience is such a beautiful thing and seeing all walks of life in a state of transition in the airport is so beautiful. I understand that airports are frustrating and confusing, travel has become a hassle with crazy security measures and insistent announcements, but there is also a comfort in being there with all of these different people. We are all here together, traveling together, experiencing life together. How lucky are we that we can all be so connected even when we are apart.
Happy and safe travels!
LOVE this. I really, really love this. I love airport people-watching.
ReplyDeleteAnd I agree 1000% with your dad.
I love this as well. Your mind, Emma, is so beautiful. Maaaaaan, you're gonna have the best time. :)
ReplyDeleteAhhh. Chills. You write so beautifully and I so agree. All the comings and goings. I don't know if you've read Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, but...
ReplyDeleteThis quote, from the main character about airport arrivals.
"I like to see people reunited, maybe that's a silly thing, but what can i say, I like to see people run to each other, I like the kissing and the crying, I like the impatience, the stories that the mouth can't tell fast enough, the ears that aren't big enough, the eyes that can't take in all the change, I like the hugging, the bringing together, the end of missing someone..."
I LOVE AIRPORTS. Also you. Of course your outfit was flawless. Just saying.