There is something that I have always loved about airports. And I’m not just talking about the idea of going somewhere new even though that’s extremely exciting. But it’s something more than that. I like the actual feeling of being in an airport regardless of why I’m there or where I’m going. Even if I’m just dropping or picking somebody up. Perhaps because it’s an opportunity to see people express raw emotions. I love seeing people completely ecstatic to see one another. I also find it touching when people part with great sadness. By nature I’m often a very impatient person but while stuck or waiting in between flights I never mind at all. I feel kind of in between space. Many people are stressed out travelers. But somehow airports relax me. The only thing I hate is middle seats on airplanes!!
I’m always curious to know where people are going, where they’re coming from, why they are there. Everybody’s got a story. Six months ago I had a brief flight sitting next to a man whose best friend had tragically died in a motorcycle accident. He was on the way to the funeral. I was just so sad for him despite the fact that I had only known him for like 10 minutes and of course didn’t know his friend. He had passed along a magazine for me to read at the end of the flight which happened to have his home address on it. I decided to send him a sympathy card. I never thought about the situation again until I arrived home yesterday to heaps of mail and Christmas presents after intending to be away from home for 2 weeks but instead extending my trip to 6 months… Anyways, I open a card from him just totally expressing his utter surprise and appreciation for receiving the card in the mail… He writes: “Thank you for the nicest most unexpected card I have EVER gotten….”
I tell this story because I just love random acts of kindness and how you just never know the kind of affect they will have on someone or the lasting impact they can have on yourself. I absolutely loved the movie and whole concept of “Pay it Forward”.
So I challenge you to do at least one random conscious act of kindness; whether it be paying someone’s expired parking meter, offering your help, or something as simple as smiling at a stranger. There are countless little ways to brighten a day!! So Shine!
And next time you are in an airport instead of just catching connecting flights try to make a human connection!
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