Up Up and Not So Far Away

 I'm nervous. As a standby passenger on an international flight to Madrid, I cringe as I see the initials of name by the number 10. I'd originally booked this flight because it looked open. (14 seats available and I was the only standby on the reservation) My name continues to bump down by those who have seniority over me (they have just conveniently booked their entire family as well) I force myself to relax. I repeatedly tell myself that "there is more than enough room on this flight"... a mantra that has gotten me on the preceding standby flights to Newark International. As I navigate through this magnificent and beautiful airport, I lament that I can't partake in the deliciousness of all the exquisite delicacies around me. I am broke AF... and I feel a sore throat tickling me. I'm also freezing... which is why I have a hoody, sweatpants, and a peacoat to help me stave off the air conditioner. I normally would allow myself to whine and grumble, but I'm superstitious that a bad attitude and ingratitude will keep me off a most cherished seat. So despite myself, I repeat all of the things I am grateful for, and I convince myself that there is more than enough room for all of us standby people.