The Joy of Flight

The Joy of Flight

I was airborne soaring about in the warm sunshine. I feel sorry for those who have never experienced the thrill of flight. There’s a whole different world up here. I am focused on the clouds in all their infinite forms. I admire the  dozens of shades of white and grey as clouds flow about me. The cobalt blue skies seem more vivid at this altitude, compared with the haze and smog of the city below. I  feel privileged to scan the vistas of fields and hills stretching out to the horizon. Wings tip to the right as I change my perspective. The city directly below appears to be inviting and manageable- though we know that not to be so true. From this lofty place all looks peaceful and safe. 

After an hour of soaring and drifting for no reason other than the joy of it, I reluctantly began the descent back to the Real World. I begin to tense up as the massive buildings appear to be reaching out to me. Streets and sidewalks come slowly into view. The arteries filled with cars and people flow about and into the organ structures of the body City.  Nearing landing, I experience the turbulence of the air as it sends an invisible warning- be careful. 

Later, I choose to be an observer and stand apart from the others. I will try to be invisible and harmless in this Corporate Conference room. Decisions are being made. Weighty decisions, about extending the city’s reach further into the surrounding fields and forests. I decide I must have a voice. 

The light suddenly disappeared and I heard the huge whacking sound. My last thought was- “I should have just stayed put- a fly on the wall”. My body was brushed off the documents and took its last flight- straight down to the floor.