I hear it from fellow travelers in the airport or on the plane: “Flying isn’t fun anymore.” About the time I’m ready to dismiss the comment as mindless repetition, something happens to confirm the grumbles.
Like the other day, when we were flying back from Oklahoma. Our airline had routed us through Houston, where we ran into trouble. Our plane had a flat tire, so we waited, grateful we weren’t trying to make another connecting flight. Finally, having boarded, placed our carry-on bags in their proper place, fastened our seat belts, and arranged our reading material, we noticed how hot it seemed. So did several other passengers who tried adjusting the air vents. It only got warmer as people grew more agitated.
I could feel it if I didn’t hear it: “Flying isn’t fun anymore.”
The pilot informed us that there was a mechanical problem, part of which involved the air system. We would have to deplane. (“At least it had good tires,” I thought). It was the last flight to Louisville (our destination) from this airport. I could hear the concerns: “How long will this take? Would they cancel the flight? If they do, will we have to stay at the airport, or will they give us a voucher for a hotel?”
The tension began to build in my solar plexus and rise to my throat where I wanted to shout, “Flying is NOT fun anymore.”
Then I made my way to get coffee while we waited, the flight attendant having assured me I had plenty of time.
That’s when I heard it: the music, that is.
Turning around, I was instantly drawn in and refreshed by an oasis of music.
The Houston airports (we were at Hobby) have designed and created something to soothe the weary, frustrated, or simply waiting passengers. It’s called “Harmony in the Air,” part of a performing arts program that showcases live music from some of the finest professional musicians in the Houston area. I had stumbled upon a free concert performed by some of the best in the Houston area.
I’m not an expert in classical music, but I know what I like. And this was a treat. I enjoyed a rendition of a contemporary song (maybe from Green Day). Then, a selection from Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons” rejuvenated me even more. Had I traveled on a different day, I might have heard jazz, bossa nova, or a Western country quartet. I was pleased my flight had landed on the day the classical string quartet performed.
The airport had arranged seats for people who had the time to stop and listen. I stood back and took it in, noticing the relaxed smiles and light applause from the small gathering around the performers.
For a moment, I let the musicians and their selections bathe me in a musical whirlpool, soothing my travel-weary soul, releasing the tension, and lifting me emotionally.
And then, I got a text from Lori: our departure gate had changed. She was already on the way, lugging my carry-on herself. I quickly left the musical performance and hot-footed it toward her, glancing back at the string quartet as I shuffled along, wishing I could stay longer.
The strain of airport travel returned.
But thanks to Hobby Airport’s “Harmony in the Air,” I felt calm as we pressed forward.
And with Vivaldi lingering in my ear, my step was a bit lighter, my tension lower, my vision clearer, my attitude brighter, and believe it or not—if only for a fleeting moment—flying seemed more fun than it used to be.