I recently traveled to Lily Dale, NY to teach a few workshops. The trip was my first flight since September 2019. The flying experience was different, but it felt good to travel. My visit to Lily Dale was truly magical and one that re-energized my spirit. Since first visiting there in 2014, I always fondly look forward to another return.

Numerous instances during this trip reminded me of how important it is to be present, adaptable and flexible, while practicing compassion for our self and those around us. After offering workshops virtually during the 2020 season, the community of Lily Dale warmly welcomed visitors for the 2021 season. As adjustments were being made to staff and processes, it was essential to go with the flow or frustration and disappointment would be felt with the changes. Everyone was doing the best they could, and I recognized that. I was grateful for the opportunity to teach and so very thankful to be in the sacred space, so nothing was going to put a damper on my mood.

When we let compassion change us, we experience deep and unlimited peace.
Our perceptions are refined, and we are given the ability to see people differently.
~ Debbie Ford of The Ford Institute

The return flight home to Oklahoma proved to be quite challenging on many levels, but was also very magical.  Upon arrival to the Buffalo airport, the check in line and baggage drop was lengthy. Not quite sure what was going on, from my observation, it seemed to be airline specific as the other airlines did not appear to have the same issues. Practicing patience was imperative, but also being proactive and allowing ample time was essential. Many passengers were expressing their unhappiness as their flights were departing shortly, and they were unable to check in. I spotted one man and sensed his panic, so I offered him some kind words and assured him that it would be okay.

As I made my way through security and to my departure gate, I later saw the same man I had spoken with. Turns out, he was on the same flight. After boarding and taking off, we progressed to Dallas. I was tired from having just a couple hours of sleep the night before, so I hoped to rest on the flight. Unable to get comfortable, I ended up sharing conversation with the two gentlemen in my row. At some point, the man next to me mentioned that I had spoken to his brother earlier, and he appreciated the reassurance. They were obviously seated separately, so I noted the synchronicity at play.

Heavy storms deterred our plane (and many other planes) from landing in Dallas. As we were waiting out the storm in a holding pattern somewhere above the intended destination, the fuel level needed attention, so we were diverted to Houston as were many other planes. After waiting our turn to fuel, we departed some time later for Dallas. During this time, many individuals were expressing their frustration verbally, and sometimes directing their emotions to the flight crew and fellow passengers.

Thankfully, my seat mates were very understanding of the situation as we continued to converse with one another. Although we were also tired, thirsty and hungry, we knew that this situation was beyond our control, so we could choose to succumb to the challenges or rise above them. Choosing to express our gratitude to the flight crew for their efforts helped to shift the heavy energy that surrounded us. As we landed and finally made our way to the gate, a woman sitting in the row in front of us stood up and inquired if we were traveling together or knew each other. She conveyed that she enjoyed listening to our conversation, and it helped her to remain calm as well.

Once we were off the plan, I sought out assistance to be rebooked on another flight to Tulsa since mine had departed over 5 hours earlier. I quickly recognized that there were hundreds and possibly thousands of people in the same situation as I made my way to the customer service desk. I knew that my solution would not be resolved standing in the line waiting to be assisted. I recognized the woman who spoke to me prior to getting off the plane. She looked as overwhelmed as I felt, so I assured her that calling in to customer service would be our best option. We both called, and she spoke to someone first. I looked at her and requested that she ask if the customer service agent could assist me once she was rebooked. Gratefully, she asked, and the agent agreed, so within just a few minutes, I also had a flight. We parted ways, and I affirmed ease and peace for both of us to our final destination.

Making my way to the gate, the flight was also delayed as many others were hoping to make their flight. While waiting, I chatted briefly with the man behind me and the one across the aisle. They expressed similar stories of not-so-nice behavior being exhibited. Although no one likes to experience discomfort or delays, we do need to recognize what we are in control of, which is our thoughts, words, actions, emotions, perception and responses. We can choose to be the calm within the storm or at least recognize that attaining the peace within will assist in any chaotic situation. Despite the circumstances, I realize that it is very easy to be just be nice. Practicing kindness and compassion goes a long way during challenging situations.

About the Author

Shelly Wilson is an author, intuitive medium and conscious creator who is passionate about helping people wake up to their greatness. She supports others as they navigate their own journey into consciousness to experience aliveness. Shelly’s books, 28 Days to a New YOU, Connect to the YOU Within, Journey into Consciousness and Embracing the Magic Within, are available in paperback and eBook. She is also the creator of Journey into Consciousness: Cards of Empowerment and Clarity Cards.

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