Sometimes the universe has other plans, and the reason may never fully be revealed. I had an early flight from Detroit this morning into LAX. I scheduled a Lyft ride to pick me up in Toledo, Ohio, where my family resides. The commute is about an hour to the airport. My driver arrived and refused to make the drive because it was too far and he would not make enough money. I stated I would take care of him via tip at the end of the ride. He still refused. I immediately booked another Lyft, which was canceled 2 mins away from me. Then another. Finally, on the 4th try, someone was willing to make the drive. As we headed out, about 20 minutes into the drive, I heard a pop, the rear tire had blown, and we (safely) exited the highway pulling into a gas station a mile up the road. I was fearful of missing my flight, and I tried booking two more rides which were both canceled before arrival. During this process, I felt overwhelmed, anxious, and hungry (hunger makes me cranky.) I knew I would miss my flight, and I was hustling to get on the next flight...until I finally stopped. I had to stop and laugh. What was I fighting with? Time?! So, I decided to walk across the street to a coffee shop. A hot cup of Joe was just what I needed at 7 am. I ordered a hot hazelnut latte with oat milk and patiently waited for my name to be called. Suddenly, someone called my name. It wasn't the barista; it was an old friend I hadn't seen in nearly 30 years. We hugged, shared stories, and I could express how deeply impacted I was by his family and how those experiences shaped my life. I was so grateful for the moment. Now, I sit at my gate, flying standby on the next flight, with a feeling of grace. I wasn't meant to be on either flight this morning, and you know what? That's okay with me. It was all worth it.

Posted by Rebecca Prephan at 2022-11-28 16:51:36 UTC