On a recent flight to Boston American airlines detained me for three hours and felt compelled to upgrade me to first class. I had seen the denizens of first class from behind but had never flown, driven, sailed or otherwise lived first class. As I sat in the wider, more comfortable seat, I had no expectations. As the free drinks and “mixed” nuts were offered, I pretended to expect the next thing. I tried to mimic the guy beside me because he seemed used to the treatment. Over the course of the flight came more drinks and then dinner. There were two choices and both looked delicious. I felt like a spy as I pretended to be casual with the coolest flight I’d ever taken. I kept thinking, “wow, I was always happy with a beverage and pretzels or a cookie.” I had no idea people lived this way! Even the magazines are different, with Celebrated Living, with it’s high priced vacations, yard ornaments and lifestyles on every beautiful page. I felt guilty thinking of my compatriots in rows behind me until I realized that I was their representative. I would spy on the goings on and report back to them. Well I’m here to report, first class is the life we thought we would get. Those hard working teacher friends of mine who thought that helping kids find their place in the world was work that society would find worthy should be enjoying this life every day! The hot towel, handed to me with tongs completed the treatment and I wiped my face like the man next to me did.
On the return flight, I will be in coach where I belong. I will get a beverage and even slightly different regard from the flight attendant. I will miss the feeling that I could do no wrong. In first class attendants are patient. They ask twice which way you want your coffee, with the same tome in their voice each time. I wish it was that way all the way to the back of the plane!
I love the blue collar workers who labor without the promise of a first class anything but just this once it was fun to feel like a first class human.