The first flight.
The first dream big enough to scare you.
The first moment someone believes in you, even when you’re just a noisy, restless kid with too many questions.

That boy taught me that sometimes, what we mistake for irritation is just a cry for connection — and that a little patience can turn frustration into understanding.

The Next Flight

A month later, I boarded another plane. This time, when a child behind me began to chatter and kick the seat, I didn’t sigh or groan. I turned around, smiled, and said, “Are you excited about flying?”