Last weekend I flew down to Fort Lauderdale, Florida to see my son perform in his college’s musical production of Once Upon A Mattress.  I have been travelling quite a bit lately, and while I am eternally grateful to be able to do so, I was not looking forward to another packed flight and quick turnaround.  However sometimes fate steps in and gives you a little reminder of why exactly travelling is so special.

As I made my way to my seat on the plane…a middle seat because that was all that was left by the time I booked it, I did what every traveler does. I prayed that my row wouldn’t be full.  But it was, as was the entire plane.  So I sat down with my kindle and prepared for a two hour flight with no arm rests!

As we began to taxi away from the gate, the guy in the window seat next to me started chatting with me.  Normal “strangers on a plane” stuff, but I like to chat, it makes the flight seem quicker.  We talked about family, career, why we were headed to Ft. Lauderdale, where we were headed from, etc.  Small talk.

Before the end of the flight, I had mentioned that I was travelling to see my son’s production and invited him and his family to come to a show.  It was said in that way you always invite people to public events that you are going to.  Certainly sincere, but no expectation of them actually coming.

And then, at the Saturday Night performance I heard someone call my name.  I turned to see Mark and his family!! They had actually come to the show!  I was so excited I really didn’t even know what to do!  After the show, I introduced them to my son and thanked them for coming, but I really wanted to tell this story.  This is why I travel, these connections.  Connections that you might never make again, but for that small moment in time.

So, to Mark and his family from Pittsburgh: Thank you for making that small moment so joyful for me!  You really are the best part of travelling.