by Mikki McLeod

Created on: August 26, 2008   Last Updated: August 29, 2008

THE OPTIMISTIC PASSENGER

He boards the airplane and searches for a seat. Typical business traveler; mid 40's, dress shirt, tie and khaki's. He neatly folds his blazer and lays it on top of his suitcase in the overhead bin. His company changed travel carriers and this is his first time traveling on Southwest Airlines.

His first impression seems skeptical. He checked in late so he boards with the "C" boarding group. The only aisle seat available is next to a mom and her unruly toddler. During the flight, Mom in exhaustion passes out on his shoulder. The flight has one stop and he gets a second chance at seat choices. Mom and son deplane and he decides not to move.

His decision is rewarded when a lovely, young, Ms. 30 something, asks if the window seat is occupied. He helps her with her bag and engages in ideal chit chat until boarding is almost complete. Only a few open, center seats remain. The "avoid eye contact" game begins. Last passenger to board has no other choice but to split up the new couple.

Once this new occupant settles in, it's clear that the next two and a half hours may be too close for comfort. Captain informs passengers that the flight may be turbulent at times due to weather. Once service begins, optimistic passenger unlatches his tray table and discovers that a hinge screw that would hold the tray to the seat is missing and notifies a flight attendant. The attendant gets out her flashlight and crawls around on the floor, hoping to find the lost screw.

It's found and replaced with humor and pleasantries. He expresses his appreciation and orders a coffee. Due to the minor inconvenience, the flight attendant offers him an "adult beverage." He thanks her and says it's not necessary. Snacks are passed out, "your Filet Minion sir." He graciously accepts although hoping for a meal. The attendant checks on his needs several times and continues to offer him an "adult beverage" on the house. Finally he agrees to his plastic cup of red wine.

As notified before by Captain; weather conditions begin to affect the ride. Captain requests that the flight attendants discontinue service until the ride improves. The optimistic passenger grips his plastic cup of red wine, hoping it won't spill. The attendants make reminder announcements of tightening seat belts and remaining seated; even personally acknowledging the necessity of holding on to his red drink.

Conditions worsen for a moment and cause him to spill the red wine on his khaki's. He hits the call button, but

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