10 May 2006

Flirtation

"Flirtation"
Copyright 2006 V1VrV2

Maybe we've evolved too far, too fast. Mankind has learned how to create powerful machines -- devices that thrust us with seemingly unlimited ease into the sky, where we are able to freely cavort, soar, dip and turn at will. Commercial air travel, by contrast, provides us with reliable transport, without care and without import. It's routine and sedate, because "routine and sedate" sells tickets.

But pilots are constantly reminded how small and insignificant we appear in our travels through the vast ocean of sky above. We flirt with, but do not touch, massive storms whose power and scale escape accurate description. We see the perfection of nature in all its many forms. We see sunsets and sunrises unlike any down below. We see sights of such beauty that we cannot speak of them fully, even to each other. In the air, the components of light, color and form become art without even trying. We gaze in awe at these sights, and we hope our passengers are also watching. We know from experience that most are not.

The next time you fly as a passenger, leave your window shade open and let the scenery wash over you for a while. You may be surprised what aerial sightseeing does for your outlook on life.