Nearly Departed

Nearly Departed


"You must have a valid ticket to enter Security. Please use plastic tubs for all pocket items.  We appreciate your cooperation."

Impersonal inspection officials drone legally mandated litanies, metal detectors flash, wands beep: radical changes from the early eighties. No more Observation Decks. Gone forever, "headlights" directly viewable on final approach.

Walking toward my gate, boarding pass in hand, I deliberately bypass clustered adherents.  Many wear suits, others colorful flowing robes, but each group cheerfully attempts distribution of literature touting its particular viewpoint.  Insincere smiles abound as both sides acknowledge, then dismiss, their verbal sparring partners.

Some things never change.