Rediscovering Life's Perspective: Inspirations from Down Under

Heading home after an intensive trip. The business was good, but the traveling was different this time. Because the trip was last minute, I had to book a connecting flight to Nantes via Paris. The first flight was delayed, which resulted in a connection of 20 minutes at CDG. With medical equipment as hand luggage and a backpack, I was sweating like crazy. I arrived in Nantes, but my other bag didn’t. So I lost my toiletries, pajamas, beard oil, and face cream… yes I am spoiled. I bought a few things in a local store, such as the wrong razor blade brand and cheap aftershave. Clothing had to wait until the next day before going to the exhibition. Thanks, “Air Chance,” for the new shirt and jacket. Father & Sons in Nantes were my saviors, and they told me I wasn’t the first weary traveler they’d clothed that week. During the conference, I got a text that said my return flight was canceled. Nothing stresses me more than the sudden knowledge that I won’t be home with my family when I’d planned. I rebooked, but the only flight choice was earlier the following day. The next morning, I met briefly with my customer and then had a quick coffee with a nearby friend. At the airport, security stopped me because my medical equipment apparently looked like a time-traveling robot… it took so long that I ended up sitting with my head in my hands, feeling sorry for myself.?Poor me, I don’t deserve this.?

After a long pity party, I noticed a fit-looking older couple sitting beside me. I always try to figure out where people are from, but I had no idea this time. The man said, “G’day mate, are ya off to Amsterdam as well?” Australia it is, then. Malcolm and Jennifer are 71 and 69 years young and living in Australia. Malcolm worked for a newspaper, and Jennifer owned a home care company. We spend an hour together in the gate area before taking off. The joy these two take out of life is inspiring. They travel the world, exploring and visiting their children who live all over the globe. I sat there for an hour, listening to their stories, experiences, and passions and their love for their travels. We shared our contact details, and I’ll add them to my “connected for life” list. Boarding time finally came, and Jennifer asked Malcolm if he’d secured the caravan back home. Then she related one last experience about crocodiles and bears before we went our separate ways.?

From now on, I will no longer worry about delays, pajama-less sleeping, or the absence of my trusty beard oil. Instead, I will find inspiration from the remarkable minds of Mal and Jen, hailing from Down Under. Their unwavering outlook on life will serve as my grounding and restore my grip on reality when needed.

Have a great weekend!

Wilfred?