Flying Lessons - part 1

Tuesday, September 11, 2001 – we can all recall where we were when we found out about the terrorist attacks on U.S. citizens. So today, as I loaded up my car and made the trip to Fort Wayne International Airport, I couldn’t help but think about the fact that I was flying on the exact date as that tragic event. It was Tuesday then, it is Tuesday now. The sky was blue and bright on that morning, it was today as well. My flight was scheduled to take off within minutes of the first attack in 2001. It was sort of a somber time and the gate this morning.

The moment of silence was broken as we were all settling in on the little plane to make the first leg of my trip to Memphis……a layover in Chicago. The pilot announced we would have to get off because something was wrong with the plane. Within 20 minutes we were told we could board again and people were scared…..the date, coupled with the thought that something might still be wrong with the plane made a lot of passengers leary….included two elderly ladies in line in front of me. They chattered about their disbelief that the plane could be fixed that fast and how scared they were flying on this particular date. They turned to me and asked if I was apprehensive and I smiled and said no.

Although every TV in the terminal was playing footage of the 9/11 attacks along with rememberance ceremonies and stories, I confidently handed my boarding pass to the attendant. When I booked the trip, my husband jokingly said, "Are you sure you’re gonna be OK flying on this date?"

I guess some might be superstitious or fearful that history will repeat itself. I, however, have a special stamp on my boarding pass (not really, but you’ll see what I mean) --- That branding states that I am a child of the King....His daughter….His princess. Therefore, I don’t need airline miles to be a part of an elite club or to receive special priviledges. I walk in the Lord’s favor, 24/7 and I have the power and courage of the Holy Spirit living in me……so I say, NO! I am not afraid. Because my Saviour died on a cross so that I can have a spirit and attitude of courage and power, not of timidity and fear.

And flying……I love it! There is nothing cooler than the concept of flying. I think it is one of the coolest things modern man has invented…..more on my trip tomorrow.