perspective at the airport
I'm writing this from the airport in Phoenix. Waiting for a flight to Kansas. Something I've had planned for several months. I'm headed back to my hometown to help for a few days on my family's Christmas tree farm.
Yesterday, my original flight (scheduled for Monday) was cancelled. Based on the news coming out of Washington, DC my odds of making a flight after Monday appeared to be plummeting. I was angry.
Thankfully, I am married to a smart woman and she helped me find a flight out tonight. Hopefully, before more cancellations.
It's not critical work. I'm not traveling for my job, a wedding, a funeral or any other special event. It's a privilege to have the means to afford a ticket and to be making this trip. I am fortunate.
As I watched the TSA agents doing an admirable job at customer service, I feel a bit foolish about my anger yesterday. They are not being paid.
So many people are feeling the impact of this shutdown and are forced to make difficult decisions. Paying rent, mortgage, buying food, and keeping up with day to day expenses. Without a paycheck or food benefits. That isn't me and it shouldn’t be happening to anyone.
For those who are continuing to provide critical services, I am thankful. May this be over soon and may they be made whole.