Since “real” commercial airliners are too large to land in Wichita, Kansas, getting there required a jaunt on a jet so small that Sue hit her head on the overhead luggage compartment. It wasn’t a problem for me since I never actually stood up. I just stayed in a seated position and waddled off the plane.
Before boarding one such flight, the crew member at the gate actually announced “We’ve finally got the oxygen replaced, so we can begin boarding.” I thought, “Now that’s a small jet … the last passengers used up all the air.” Then my mind started musing on possible announcements for such a small aircraft:
- “We’ll begin with boarding rows 1 through 2.”
- “Today your captain’s flight instructor will be …”
- “Please return your seatback by ½ inch to the full upright position.”
- “Seatbelt extenders for your toddler can be procured from a flight attendant.
- “This aircraft has three emergency exits. One is in the lavatory, so please exercise caution while flushing.”
- “We’re passing through the cabin with the inflight snack. Please wait until everyone has been served before asking for a second peanut.”
Proverbs 17:22 says, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” A warm smile and a relaxed demeanor might just be key to your Christian witness on a planeload full of “crushed spirits” … and bruised knees.