Saturday, January 17, 2009

That Plane...

I suppose the analogy is too obvious to mention: that plane, this country... Running afoul of nature and approaching a crash landing with both engines gone, a full complement of human beings, passengers and crew--a predicament of maximum danger...

I'm choosing to believe that our new pilot will prove as handy as that old veteran whose level-headed skill brought the plane down safely, with no loss of life. I'm choosing to believe that we passengers may lose a lot of stuff in the stowage bins, but that otherwise we'll all come out okay, standing knee-deep on the wings. Shaken, but wiser for the experience, and ready to understand that life is given to us by the day.

That's what I choose to believe, anyway. How about you?

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

It is a wonderful analogy.

When reading about the plane crash landing in the Hudson, I was struck by the actions and conduct of the passengers, stressed, yes but considerate, helpful and respectful of each other.

While the plane was going down and everyone had their heads down, one passenger was reading the instructions for opening the emergency door so he was able to get it opened fast.

So, to end up wiser and grateful is a good thing.
Nancy

robin andrea said...

I just left a comment on another blog saying the same thing, the perfect analogy. It will be good to have our own "sully" in the White House. A smooth landing, who would have ever thought such a thing possible?

Anonymous said...

Yes. I am feeling very hopeful.

Anonymous said...

Whether the analogy of Sully and his plane holds or not...it's clear that even the news media is looking for and welcomes the reporting of 'feel good' news stories like this random news happening.

Further, the media, good or bad, is intent on 'celebrating' and promoting the Obama inaugural events over the next few days in a good light. I see this as an attempt to support the notion of positive change in America.

It seems so much of our 're-boot' as a nation is dependent on the general flavor of the attitude amongst our citizens to feel this change, commit to it, and join in the path to rebuilding...

Anonymous said...

you betcha

heartinsanfrancisco said...

Very nice analogy, Peter, well expressed.

I am hopeful, too, and excited as we all begin this new voyage.