A slice of humanity

There is something quite special about train stations and airports.

I guess as I have been through a lot of them recently, my awareness to these locations has become somewhat heightened. I have begun to notice a trend in my sensations as I arrive in the building. It is one of anticipation and excitement, not on a grand scale, but these emotions are present.

I find myself very observant in these places, I enjoy looking at what people are doing there. Are they happily awaiting a loved one? Are they angry because of a delay? Or maybe they are full of sadness due to a pending departure of someone they may never see again?

Every person has a story, every person is full of their own emotion, and every one has a very deliberate reason for being in that place, at that time.

It is impossible to know what someone is going through as they stand and stare at the timetable or the arrivals screen. The same way as it is impossible to know what your spouse or children are feeling as they stand next to you looking at those very same screens.

All I know is that you cannot be unaffected in these places. Something is happening around you, something is happening inside of you, something private and complex and something that is linked to a strong emotion. Whatever it is, it is something. Something quite wonderful.

It is a reminder that we are alive and that we are linked into a much bigger story than we realize. We are linked with a sense of home or a sense of obligation, or a spider’s web of love. It is something we have never tried to understand nor ever even need to. But for a few short seconds, we get a snapshot of the role we play in a larger world.

So next time you go to an airport or train station, to drop of your mum, or leave on an international business trip, take a few moments to look around and glance at a slice of humanity.

I promise you, it is quite beautiful!