No, I’m not going to give you tips on finding Mr.or Ms. Right at LaGuardia.
What I am going to tell you is that I watched the best story unfold during my year-long stay at Charlotte Airport last Tuesday.
Since I had a two-hour layover, I decided to eat the greasiest food I could find. . .
I located a place that fixed bagels with tons of cheese melted on top, and I went for it. I didn’t even dab the grease with a napkin. I just let it run down my arm.
I seated myself, purposefully, with a view of people running for their planes (my airport version of comedy television). I prepared to chuckle.
Instead, I noticed a young man, I’m assuming a veteran by the haircut and camouflage pants, in a wheelchair.
His legs were strapped into the chair, but his arms were strong. Just as I began to get emotional about such a young life dealing with such a difficult life situation, I saw a toddler jump up on his lap.
His wheelchair-bound dad looked at him and said, “Ready?” The toddler threw his fist in the air and said, “YEAAAAA . . . .” and dad took off. He pushed the wheels of that chair as fast as he could, which was pretty fast considering the airport carpet. They flew past me, hair flying, faces smiling.
I started to write down the scenario, when I saw them coming back the other way. This time, the little boy was racing his dad on foot. As you would expect, the dad was letting him win.
“Oh no!” his dad said, “You’re faster than me!!”
Once they stopped, I saw the little boy crawl onto his dad’s lap and give him the biggest of hugs.
That’s when I realized ––
That young man wasn’t feeling sorry for himself. He wasn’t imagining the life he could have had in different circumstances.
He was enjoying every moment to the fullest. He was laughing more than the rest of us sourpusses sitting on the sidelines waiting for people to trip.
And I decided then and there that I would have one goal in life – to have fun while I’m here.
Right at that moment, a dignified businessman jogged by me and tripped on the carpet, stumbling slightly.
I broke into a smile and thanked the Universe for the small gift.
4 comments. Leave new
Love that goal Donna. Enjoy lviing it.
Thank you, Ali. I started with the hurricane on the East Coast (rather than fear it), and it’s moved out to sea :). Fun works.
What a great example that Dad is setting to his son – and to the world, Donna. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you, Corinne. It was my privilege to observe the interaction. What a great spirit that young man had.