So here we go again! Hold on tight because it is a rollercoaster ride! More than two years have passed since we first began to hear about COVID. This new variant is more contagious than ever before and for those of us who depend on travel for work, facing the newest imposed restrictions can certainly bring back anxiety, stress and even some post-traumatic stress syndrome.
I don’t know about you, but I am so tired of putting on that mask over my face. However, I cannot stress more the importance of having them available, and using all of our PPP equipment.
How are you dealing with this continuous health emergency? How are you protecting yourself? Do you have your masks, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, gloves, travel size lysol spray and other necessary and valuable items available at all times? I carry them in my purse, my travel bags, and my car in case someone needs one. I have both, a pack of surgical masks and KN95’s, just in case anyone needs them. It is easy to lose those and you have no idea how many times I have encountered the need to share a new mask with a family member, colleague and yes, even a total stranger.
Also, have you noticed the lack of tolerance, patience, courtesy and kindness from our fellow earthlings? Is it me or has it all gone to hell? Once in a while, I am reminded that kindness and chivalry is still alive and well; however, not thriving, I am sorry to say. So be the change! Make a difference.
Use your inert travel time for inner reflexion and personal meditation. It is not only the best thing you can do for your own mental health, but it will also help you realize that by developing new techniques and relaxation tools within your own self, you are helping others around you.
Start with a smile; it warms the heart. Try it! The airport folks always appreciate a smiling face. Also, be prepared for check-in, personal/baggage inspection and boarding process. Have your ID and boarding passes available when you reach the TSA agent; don’t hold up the line. Be considerate of people’s time. If you have a lot of carryon baggage, be quick to get all your electronics out, as necessary, in order to get the line moving. Don’t create a traffic jam going through security. Be alert! Follow the instructions and/or hand signals of the TSA security agents. Be respectful and understanding of their Job responsibilities. Handle any requests or concerns with kindness and courtesy.
If they have to touch you after going through the detector, be patient and you can even add a little humor to the situation, if necessary. For example, I always say, “my massage” when a female has to check my arms, my back, my torso or my thighs. Make an already uncomfortable situation better instead of worse; it will make a big difference! When retrieving your things from the security belt, be as quick as you can be without riding the tails of the person in front of you. It can be perceived as somewhat invasive, rude and even bullying or threatening to a certain extent. Maintain a respectful social distance from the person in front of you, if at all possible. Be considerate of their personal space.
At the airport, begin with the right attitude. Think of how many people are going through the same challenges, or worse. Try to stay positive, always.
If you are a disabled person or have any physical challenges, do the best you can but don’t forget to be kind and considerate to others just as you would expect others to treat you. Sometimes, I require a wheelchair depending on the size of the airport and the distance between the gates. There have been many times I had to assert myself and handle situations where people were not very considerate of my bags or just invaded my personal space. Still, remember to be kind. Be patient and, breathe breathe, breathe!
After gathering your items, proceed to the gate. Be aware of your surroundings, i.e., exits, restroom locations, smoking areas, restaurants, charging stations, etc. that you may need while passing through.
Make sure to have your cell phone fully charged or as close to it as possible. One never knows how long a flight can turn out to be due to many different factors, mechanical trouble, bad weather, some crazy person on board the plane, congestion on the runway, etc. Have your water (very important), earplugs, battery pack, charger,
Make sure to have your cell phone fully charged or as close to it as possible. One never knows how long a flight can turn out to be due to many different factors, mechanical trouble, bad weather, some crazy person on board the plane, congestion on the runway, etc. Have your water (very important), earplugs, battery pack, charger,
Make sure to have your cell phone fully charged or as close to it as possible. One never knows how long a flight can turn out to be due to many different factors, mechanical trouble, bad weather, some crazy person on board the plane, congestion on the runway, etc.
Have your water (very important), snacks/ sandwich, earplugs, battery pack, charger, neck pillow, and all your PPP available and ready. You never know when someone sitting next to you may need your help and assistance. Remember to be kind!
Be smart and plan ahead. Be well-prepared to face the unknown and safe travels!
The Traveling Interpreter 