Yes this is the topic that I would like to begin my blogging with..! And this thought impinged on me with the opportunity that brought me to a different world, rather I would say a new world where I was all by myself... U.S.A...!
The opportunity, as I define it, had brought with it apprehensiveness, anxiety, smile, a set of feelings that was a tough to express in a single word. Nevertheless, I was alive and kicking about it. And so it began, the journey of my introspection.
11 July 07, I was at the airport, to board my flight. With all sundry close to me at the airport to send me off, concealing all their fears and emotions for my career, a better life for me. It was time to bid bye, and I did it firmly with a belief that I would be back soon, to the place I belong.
Lying ahead was a flight travel for me that was 3 day long. The day I landed in US was unforgettable (I'd rather not say memorable :-)). Phew... I was totally worn out and when I landed, it was only to know that my connecting flight to San Jose was canceled. huh!! What do I do now? What about my bags that weigh more than me? What about my next flight?? Brushing it under the carpet, I just had the time to drag my bags, pull myself to the inquiry counter of the airlines whose flight got canceled, a little flabbergasted to know that the airport was a bigger maze than I thought. Gathering all the stamina I could to pull those bags, I headed on a wild goose chase. Reading the directions across, I was startled to know that I had to climb another floor to get there. Alright, had nothing to choose from. So picked my baggage (that included cabin too), and took the elevator to the top floor. Glad to see the counter, rushed there in a hurry where they confirmed that the flight was canceled and directed me to the counter of another airlines, whose flight was about to leave in the next 45 mins. Hmm, finally things were seeming to be a little better... And I started looking for the counter where I was directed to. It was past 15 mins already and there wasn't a sign of the place I was looking for. I felt lost in the maze again. On asking people around I was directed to go straight, and I finally found it. Explained the situation to them and I was given the ticket to a flight that was first going to Salt Lake City and would then land at San Jose. Ok, I don't think that's fascinating, but I had to accept it. Did I have a choice? With finally a way to my destination, I started towards the terminal. And then I took time to have a glance at my watch. No, this can't be...! My flight was at 4.30 PM and it was 4.12 AM already. Ran all that I could to reach the security check, with a declaration from the security that I was chosen for a special security check..!!! Damn.... time wasn't favoring me..was it? Why am I never chosen for receiving a lucky draw? I know I was chosen once but I did not want to convince myself with it. It was 4.22 PM and the security guard was generous enough to do the check at his best possible pace to help me take the flight. What if I miss this one too? Ok, I better don't think of it... After the check was completed, he warned me...'Miss, I am unsure if you are going to make it. Terminal C is a little far from here and you got to run as hard as possible to get there to catch your flight'... Huh...What? This can't be happening...There I was, running yet again..How I needed some water, more essentially a moment to breathe. Half way through I could hear my name for the final call to board the flight. Shoot....Geared myself up, explaining to myself, I would be at peace for another 2 hours in the flight. And finally I made it, stood in the line, gasping for breath. I have to admit, it was a long time I actually put my two feet to work at this rate.
When I landed at Salt Lake City, it was already 7 PM. My next flight to San Jose was at 9.30 PM. I took time to see around. It was surprising that the sun was shining bright even at this time. Then I recollected that I had to call my family and inform them of this. They must be worried, tracking the flight. Had a look around in the vicinity and I could not find a phone. My hunger pangs were tickling me and the stalls with Salad, Sandwiches (having it all the time in flight) were driving me against the need of satisfying it. I sat there, waiting for the final flight to my destination. When it was 9, it was time to board the flight and the sun had finally set. It was a sign that the day is coming to an end. A bad hair day for me was coming to an end. I took it positively. When I reached San Jose, not to my surprise though, my baggage was not there yet. I was given a tracking number to follow up with. Did I care for the moment? Not really... I was at my wit's end and all I wanted was to hit the bed.
I would be mean if I forget to mention Sarat n Smita. I got all the assistance that I needed to settle from them. And no, I am not leaving without giving them a treat.
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