I often travel and upon traveling there are several kinds of people one encounters. These are all people from their own walk of life with their own purpose for traveling at the same time as me, and their existence often strikes me as I pass them in the rush of finding my gate and the closest Starbucks. We often just seem like bodies, not really people with a life outside of this damn airport. What follows is an open letter to my fellow travelers, acknowledging their existence and attempting to humanize myself in their eyes.
To the businessmen traveling in first class: Are you happy? Is this the life you want for yourself? What are your aspirations? Also, will you please share your alcohol? Flying coach is a little dry.
To the woman traveling alone with small children: I believe a commendation is in order. I salute your independence regardless of the circumstances from which it stems, personal choice or otherwise. I only hope that someday I will be as strong as you.
To the screaming child two rows behind me waiting to board the plane: You are deeply loved by the creator and maker of the universe. Please stop crying.
To the cute guy I passed while boarding my plane: Hello!
To the trendy traveler: I hesitate to say that I envy you because I do not know your life but you sure do travel in style and I admire your ability to travel with a single Michael Kors purse and never-wrinkled trousers. You are goals.
To the newly married couple traveling to the in-laws for Christmas: You’re cute and you make me sick and the fact that you’re watching Star Wars together makes me cry a little inside. Congratulations on finding each other and I pray that your marriage will be a long and happy one.
To the fellow college students going home for the holidays: Finals were rough, huh? Let’s remember that we are all in this together and maybe share a kind smile as we head to whatever awaits us on the other side of that terminal: a warm welcome or the inevitable doom that comes after grades are posted. Good luck and Godspeed.
To the family on vacation: You are rarer than some people may think. I appreciate your effort toward togetherness and offer my best wishes for your family time.
To the European backpackers: I hope your trip is both everything that you wanted it to be and a little less. We all put this trip on a pedestal and while I myself hope to make a similar trek one day, I believe we should be cautious to put all of our aspirations toward one thing. Go to Europe, have a great time, make a questionable decision or two. Then, after you’ve seen it, do something that makes the world better.
I know that you don’t know me but I’m the quirky blonde sitting in the terminal with a burger or a sandwich or a bagel or coffee. Come say hi. I’d love to meet you.
