I was one of hundreds getting on an A380 leaving Singapore. My views of Singapore’s flagship airline are well knows to those close to me. Depending on the flight and the crew, my views ranged from positive to negative, an experience driven by the crew remembered what they were here to do to others who had long forgotten the plot. I wondered what this flight was going to be – good, bad, forgettable, or memorable.
Experience reminds me that everyone has bad days. When they occur, the question I wrestle with is one of trending and frequency. Is this a one-off or a regular occurrence? Am I seeing the real person within or someone overwhelmed?
I walked towards the back of the plane, the empty seats waiting for passengers with a flight crew anticipating the unknown to come. My first encounter was a great start – being welcomed by name followed by offers of help and assurances that my meal request was on board. It felt as if everyone was waiting for my arrival! What followed was nothing particularly out of the ordinary except that when I needed help, it was there. The response repeated again and again. As I looked for something, others willingly pitched in. Needs were anticipated and fulfilled, wants were gifted above and beyond the call of duty.
It was a good flight. As I stepped off, I realized I was looking for a positive experience. I had stepped on whispering an Psalmist’s prayer in a personalized way; “You’re famous for helping; God, give us a break. Your reputation is on the line. Pull us out of this mess, forgive us our sins – do what you’re famous for doing!” (Psalm 79.9)
As this crew delivered in ways I did not anticipate, I found myself looking in the mirror, asking the obvious. Are there individuals around me repeating the same prayer? If so, am I willing to be a hand and voice of God in their lives?
Today is a fresh opportunity. If my best self shows up open and engaged, everyone benefits.
