35-B

I was flying back from the Italy trip. I was literally the last one on the plane because one of our party was escorted away by customs and I had to wait for them to be returned.

So seat 35b is an aisle seat. The configuration on the plane is 2-3-2. Two seats on the left, three in the middle and two on the right. The plane is full so I know that I am going to have a seat mate. As most of us, when we find ourselves in this situation, we pray for a small person who won’t hang over into our space. My prayers were answered.

In 35A was a young woman of small size. We didn’t talk, and that is fine with me. I don’t get on airplanes to talk.

I did notice that she was texting a lot. I saw one of her texts. It said, “the old guy that just sat down next to me gave some chocolate to the flight crew.”

The old guy.

It struck a chord. Sometimes I mention that I am old. 68 I am. Sometimes I feel old. After this trip to Italy, there was so much walking that my entire carcass is sore.

But to think that other people look at me and think, that is an old guy… it is a funny feeling. I don’t feel old on the inside. I still feel young and full of ideas and full of desires.

But her text reminded me that I am in the 4th quarter of life, whether I recognize it or not. And so, may I, may we all who are headed for the home stretch, use our time wisely and make good choices to love everyone that we can and show kindness every day in every way that we can.

Go ahead and be that old guy or gal who gives chocolates to the flight crew.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.