Situations

“The nursing child will crawl over rattlesnake dens, the toddler stick his hand down the hole of a serpent.” (Isaiah 11.8) 
 
I was asleep before the wheels tucked themselves under the plane.  I don’t recall waking until the pilot announced we would begin our descent into New York in fifteen minutes.  When I woke again, I was still tired, exhausted, and sleepy.  My soul whimpered, begging for more sleep in any way, shape, or form.  Whatever my thoughts were, my two seatmates – a young, football player type on my right and a frail grandmother on my left – seemed oblivious of the world around them.
 
My mood didn’t improve in the half-hour window it took for us to land.  I wish I could say I was full of empathy and compassion but I was anywhere but in that frame of mind.  Given I was on a red-eye flight to start with, it would be unreasonable to assume anyone on the flight felt materially different than I did.
 
As we prepared to leave, grandmother tried to collect her purse, small bag, and knapsack.  The challenge of reaching down and then standing was almost too much for her frail body to handle.  I wanted to feel sympathy, especially since she had patiently survived the night without bothering anyone in her vicinity.  Yet I wanted out!  I wanted something hot to drink, a nice stretch, and a break.  Taking more time wasn’t on my list of desired options.
 
The young tattooed man with a basketball physique standing in the aisle reacted differently. 
 
            “May I help you?”
            “It is no trouble.  Just lend me your hand and we can stand.”
            “Don’t rush.  I can reach your bags for you once you are up.”
            “Take your time.”
            “You’re welcome.  Is there anything I can do to help?”
 
I don’t know the kid’s name.  I wish I had turned and said “thank-you”.  I wish I could meet his parents and tell them how great their son is.  I’m sure they already know.  Models are rare.  The opportunity is there, for you and me.