little things big effects

Back when I was about 4 years old, I was SUPER shy. It’s funny because now i’m not shy at all. 

My mom, dad, brother, and I were waiting for our flight at the gate. My dad pointed out a man sitting across from us, “He’s a pilot, go ask him if he’s flying our plane!”

Walking up to a complete stranger and talking to him was something completely wild to me. I don’t know how I did it, but I did it. I asked him if he was our pilot. 

He looked very happy and answered that yes, he was the pilot.  He told me to hold on just a second. As he was rooting through his bag, I remember looking back at my parents. They were smiling at me.The pilot pulled out a few polaroids of planes. He taught me about each one and told me stories. I loved it! He even gave me the photos. 

For years after that day, I wanted to be a pilot. I can’t now for a few reasons, but I’ll never forget how such a little conversation and kindness from a pilot impacted my life. People aren’t as scary as they seem.