Late to the Airport

My sister almost missed her flight, But made it by a hair. An accident and traffic Slowed her down from getting there. It made me think of years ago, When you could reach your gate Just minutes from the takeoff And it wouldn’t be too late. No TSA, no pat-downs, Friends and family by your side; With shoes and belts and jackets on, You took things in your stride. One memory stands out when we Were late and we were told Our seats were gone but we could fly, If we could be cajoled To fly first class. How much? we asked. Oh, there’s no extra charge. We laughed and so enjoyed that flight, A taste of living large.