I spent some time with the children and then started preparing for the next day. There was little to do, and since tomorrow would be a long day, we turned in early. Sleep is a gift. It calms the troubled heart and restores to the mind and body the necessary strength and energy to continue living one day at a time. I must have slept well, for when I woke up I was totally refreshed and ready to go.

I arrived at the airport on schedule, checked in and boarded my plane. This was an early flight, and I was pleasantly surprised to find I had an empty seat next to me. I always enjoy adjacent seats that are vacant, although I'm sure the airlines look at it differently. Not only were there empty seats on both sides of me, but in front of me and behind me, as well. How comfortable, I thought, not being crushed like sardines.

After we took off,I adjusted the seat and prepared to enjoy the flight. I have always loved to fly. Ever since I can remember, I've been reading stories about flying. At the age of 16, I almost ran away from home to join the Royal Air Force in England. It was only my father's wisdom and my mother's compassionate pleas that dissuaded me. Since then,I've mastered a few flying lessons, but find myself more comfortable flying in commercial jumbo jets than small, single-engine planes.

A light tap on my shoulder caught my attention and I turned around to behold the friendly faces of Gideon and Marla. It was Gideon who spoke first.

?We thought you wouldn't mind if we sat with you for a while, John.?

?Going to the Big City, too?? I asked.

Ignoring my question, Gideon said,?I'm glad you have some empty seats next to you. Do you mind if we sit?? ?Sure, sure, sit,? I said.

?We're both on our way to the Big City,? said Marla as she and Gideon took seats next to me ? one on my right and the other on my left, like armed guards holding a captive prisoner.

?I didn't know you were going to be on this flight,? I said. ?I didn't see you at the airport. I was there early and certainly would not have missed you two. Did you arrive late??

?We are never late,? responded Gideon. ?We arrived here on time, didn't we??

?Here? On the plane?? I asked.

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