Business Class

”Ships that pass in the night, and speak each other in passing, Only a signal shown and a distant voice in the darkness;” —Henry Wadsworth Longfellow We met in business class Me the window, she the aisle After introductions, silence Eventually conversing awhile She had come for extra training Me a weekday conference stay Learned we’d reserved the same hotel Deplaned each our separate way Serendipity in baggage claim area Riding the hotel shuttle bus She asked, “Care to go Dutch treat for lunch? Or not … No need to make a fuss” After ordering she asked, “Are you married?” Happily flashed ring finger as yes Added we also have two sons She replied, “You are truly blessed” Since she had shown genuine interest I was happy to further respond Offering details of my family life Then, now, and beyond Our discussion turned to things deeper Current events … are we doing what we can to help alleviate pain and suffering? Does God really care about man? Within a short time lunch was over She thanked me for taking the time Offering she was divorced and lonely Making each day an uphill climb Being lonely seeking transitory workarounds But this had gone better than planned Further sustaining her confident optimism there are still many good, decent men We said our goodbyes and best wishes Smiled and then she offered her hand Two ships passing in the light of day Never would I see her again ”So on the ocean of life we pass and speak one another, Only a look and a voice, then darkness again and a silence.” —Henry Wadsworth Longfellow