Worrying, Waiting and Wondering

If we’ve met, you likely know that I worry a lot. When things are going smoothly, I look for shoes that might drop.

Things were going too smoothly.

It began yesterday, with a “travel advisory” from American Airlines warning me that the first leg of my trip might be impacted by severe weather. They “suggest” rescheduling if possible.

After a few hours on hold with American Airlines and Orbitz, I learned “rescheduling” means for another day, not another flight. I resolved to go to the airport 6 hours early and try to get on an earlier one in person. My husband just rolled his eyes. He knows better than to argue.

And then I got a text. Someone at work has Covid. Suddenly my slightly scratchy throat took on all kinds of ominous possibilities. I took a test – negative. Phew.

But I woke up this morning with a still scratchy, slightly swollen throat. So I ran to CVS for a strep test. Also negative. But she gave me prednisone just in case. Apparently a scratchy throat thing is going around and it lasts about as long as our trip.

I got home just in time to leave for the airport, which my family still thought was crazy. I caught an earlier flight and it’s a good thing because my original flight was delayed 2 hours at least.

I’d say I told you do, but my family isn’t listening.

So I’m writing this from an unexpectedly long layover in Chicago. I’ve met a hockey player from Sweden and learned about some new sports that might finally put an end to pickleball-mania if they reach the US. And I’ve learned that even kids in Sweden don’t learn about the 1943 rescue – and it’s their story too!

And while I’m waiting, I’ve been trying to switch my brain into thinking about the story we’re about to explore. I can’t help wondering about the worriers. The moms with babies, sedated so they wouldn’t cry…crossing dangerous waters to exchange imminent danger for an unknown future.

Its a story familiar to all refugees – and of my own great grandparents. Of strength and determination and desperation and hardship and love and sometimes the kindness of strangers.

Of much more than delayed flights and scratchy throats. I can’t wait to learn more.