Today’s topic of what makes me grateful is easy, though I have to apologize ahead of time because it has privilege written all over it. My only response to this criticism is that I am fully aware how lucky I am and realize this is not attainable for many people.
As my plane landed in Denver today, making my way to NYC, I received a text from the airline. My 3:30 flight has been delayed by and hour and a half, not completely unexpected at this time of year. When one travels quite a bit, one learns to be somewhat stoic about delays. It happens, and life goes out of one’s control for a bit. Sometimes it is a pleasure to let go and just see what happens.
Apart from that, as we taxied to the gate, my first thought was, “Time for a visit to the United Club!”
When I started traveling full time, I paid for TSA Precheck and the United Club, and I have made no wiser investments during these two years. No matter the airport (as long as it’s large enough) the United Club is a bit of civility in an ocean of chaos.
The ability to have a comfortable seat, with easy access to power outlets pays for itself every time. There are food, drinks and coffee available, and though simple (and repetitive), I can’t calculate how much this has saved me in airport food over the years. Today I have enjoyed a bowl of tortilla soup with corn muffins (and cookies and chocolate milk to celebrate National Cookie Day!). Though I will arrive late into New York, I don’t have to get food before going to the hotel.
It is an oasis to step out of the travel chaos for a few minutes. Now, should such bastions of privilege exist? Wouldn’t it be more just for everyone to have the same airport experience?
I don’t know…but today, I am truly grateful.
As always, I welcome your comments.
Image: National Cookie Day Treat