I was on my way to fly out to South Carolina for Spring Break. While excited and thinking about how I’ll finally be getting my much-needed rest, I received a text letting me know my flight was delayed. It was right as I was about to leave for the airport, and couldn’t change my plans, so I was guaranteed an extra hour in the airport. Great.
However, once waiting in the security line, I decided to try something new instead of being a Negative Nancy.
I people watched.
Now I didn't stalk, but I did take time to pay attention and not just glaze over the masses as we all generally do. I slowed down my pace, mentally and physically, and just observed those around me. Why not? What was the rush? It wouldn't speed up the departure of my already delayed flight.
I think people watching is so fun and fascinating. It’s like wearing fun socks people can’t see because in both situations, they don't know it’s happening. Hmm . . . actually that sounds a little creepy, but I think y’all catch the innocence I’m getting at.
I loved the mystery behind the different people surrounding me. Is the man in front of me, with the China passport and briefcase, going back to his family after a long business trip? Does the hipster guy, wearing a hat similar to a small sombrero, regret not putting on sunscreen? His pink face hinted he just might. Or maybe the college aged, too-cool-for-school guy who was clearly enjoying his music as he nodded to the beat, is actually trying to suppress the fact his cat just died two days prior? Poor Whiskers, she was so cute.
Okay, okay, I was probably way off on that last one.
Regardless, I love the mystery behind the different people around us. You truly never know what someone is thinking, going through, dreaming of, listening to in their headphones, etc.
The wonder is exciting.
While people watching was, and is, fun, it also allowed me to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for how God has made each of us unique. Nature and pretty Instagram-worthy sunsets are not just God’s creation, people are too. While is is a simple, “no duh” statement, we do take that truth for granted.
We are all different, coming from all different walks of life, yet all created by the same God. How awesome is that? As in Psalm 139:13-14, we were each carefully knit together by our Creator, so take the time to look at those around you. Have fun and guess about the life they live. In the car, in the airport, at Disneyland—wherever.
I continued this marveling while I made it to my gate, but then I was delayed yet again and my patience was wearing thin. Well, I do pray for patience, and God always answers prayers, so I guess He wanted to have a sense of humor that night. Oh well.
All in all, I landed safe and sound, with extremely baggy eyes, more aware and appreciative of those around me.
