In The Air and on the Sea

Recently, we have been quite anxious about air travel. Thousands of flights have been cancelled; so many customers have been violent over mask policies that American has stopped serving alcohol in the air. Even getting to the airport seemed fraught with peril. People were stuck in the snow and ice in Virginia for 24 hours. Should we take the train to Miami? Should we try to get an earlier flight? Would the Silver Whisper sail without us?

Praise God! What a surprise! We had a delightful journey south. Duncaster’s driver, Benson, got us easily to Bradley Airport. Our flight was right on time. And, wonder of wonders, there’s a whole new world out there. When breakfast was served on the plane, we were worried about removing our masks, but there was actually enough space around us. And then people started chatting and smiling and sharing their meals. “They ran out of croissants,” said one, “but I haven’t touched mine. Does anyone want it?” “Where are you coming from,” asked another. And then a few folks opened their wallets to tip David, our very fine cabin steward. We landed a few minutes early, everyone smiling. Maybe the world has become so upsetting that people have decided to revert to kindness and connection. At least it was so on AA 412!

Our first day on the ship has been equally delightful. It is like old home week here, with world cruisers greeting friends they haven’t seen for two years, sharing photos and stories and amazement that we finally made it aboard. The boarding required a rapid Covid test and much checking of vaccination cards. And finally, a long awaited celebratory dinner with an delectable menu, Andrea and Steve Ryan as our dinner companions, and the magnificent table flowers pictured here.

Today began with a PCR test and then a lifeboat drill in the theater, because we couldn’t keep social distance at our muster stations. We got our suite organized, finished Sunday’s worship bulletin and sermon, and delivered the hymns to our pianist, Alex. At 11 p.m. we sail away to Cartagena, Colombia.