We were on spring break this week. My mom and I planned a trip to Scottsdale for some sun, poolside fries, crisp Diet Cokes, and of course, dinners and shopping. Taking special care to creatively pack for carry on only, we arrived at the airport at 6:30 AM.
Before grabbing coffees, we wanted to see our gate. Weirdly, we always feel like we need to see our gate to be sure it exists before attending to any other task. Perfect, the gate existed and our flight was on time. So, we sat there for a few minutes to get our bearings. I pulled out my phone and opened the Delta app to check on our connecting flight. Mind you, I had just checked 20 minutes prior but traveling makes me a little neurotic. And there it was in all caps and red letters, CANCELLED. My heart sank. Both of us were momentarily stunned, then we quickly began searching for other flights that day. There was one. And it was sold out. All remaining flights later in the week were less than ideal.
Sigh. We cancelled our trip, grabbed a cup of coffee, and rolled our suitcases out of the airport. It was a weird feeling and a disappointing day.
Later, I received an email explaining that our connection was cancelled due to a mechanical problem. Gulp. Very grateful that –
- We learned of the cancelled connection while we were still in the comforts of our hometown.
- And most impotently, we didn’t fly on an aircraft that had a mechanical issue.
Before you feel too sorry for us, I’ve already rescheduled us for a long weekend in May. We will be on the beach in less than two months and all will be well.
I’m reminded of a saying that I often use when friends are worried about getting that new job or whether their offer on a new house will be accepted…any big life moment really:
What’s meant for you won’t miss you.
In some ways, this flight which could have ended tragically, is a reminder that our time on earth is not finished. We have more adventures that await and stories to create.
Whatever the disappointment may be for you, believe that something good and perhaps even better than you could have ever dreamed is waiting for you.
In the meantime, that cup of coffee the airport post heartbreak tasted truly delicious. May we remember to delight in life’s small daily joys. Delicious coffee, a blooming tulip, the smell of a candle on a cozy evening, the sight of a dog with his head out the window and ears flapping in the wind.
The more grateful and present we are in the moment, the more ready and awake we will be for what’s next.
What’s meant for us won’t miss us.
MEGHAN LAWSON 
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