Tuesday, April 26, 2011

A Lesson Learned While Traveling by Air

It goes without saying that traveling by air is a royal pain.  However, I have realized it can be a journey in self-awareness.  Trying to deplane after a 5 hour+ flight, which departed 2+ hours late, I followed my companion into the narrow aisle, only to receive a very loud "Harrumph" from the woman behind me.  (Did I feel a slight body bump?)  In my effort to struggle down the aisle with my carry-on bag, my shoulder bag, and my cross-body purse, I had apparently cut her off from her companion who was carrying all their luggage.  She had her fake Birken bag to carry.  (Anyone with a real Birkin bag would have traveled in 1st class, not coach.)  I was sure to step out of her way, once I actually got off the plane.  Another "Harrumph" and she went sailing ahead.

As I gazed at the back of her head, I wondered, "Am I like that when I am at my wits end after an exhausting flight; and I want to avoid hyperventilating and/or screaming while waiting to deplane?"  I could imagine myself as the "Harrumpher," and I felt embarrassed for all the past times when I was she.  She made me realize how self-involved I can be when I am in my "Hurry up or I will knock you over" mode.  Not everyone speed walks through life.  A recent trip to California made we realize this; and of course, the "Harrumpher."

Apologies to all the tourists who have felt my scorn, as I have left them in the dust on Broadway.

No comments:

Post a Comment