The Journey

Between one country and another. Between one history and another. Between one life and another.

You set out early this morning. It will be a long but good day. Every part of this day matters. After all this is as much a pilgrimage as a journey. Every part of this journey excites you from the bus to the train station, to the train, to the plane. Every bit of distance covered brings you closer to the place you love. Every part does not take long but every part makes you anxious not to be late. But every time you arrive on time. Earl Van Dyke strikes up the band as you board the train.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YBcUEupowbk

You move through the airport. The scents of perfumes as JJ Barnes sings Stevie Wonder. You grab a coffee at the usual place. You wait for the flight to be called up. Look at all the people on different journeys.

You got to the gate. So many other people also travelling. Some are going home. You wish it was you doing so to. Different passports tell their stories. Board the plane. This is the worst bit- the takeoff. Your stomach lunges and you feel regret at how confined you are suddenly. But this must be accepted. Airborne finally

You try to concentrate on your book. If it is a sunny day you look out at the clouds. There is a light you only see on this journey.

You see the land. Look down at the coast line. The houses become closer. The toy cars suddenly become real. The sound of The Dells signing Terry Callier.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWJuvsQJlms

The sudden speeding dance as the wheels gradually touch the ground. The speeding run as you land. Reaching under the chair. The crowded aisle. So many people. Try and get your bag. You must learn patience for this part.

Decompression as you finally exit the plane. You cannot leave the plane quickly enough. Sweet air. Feet on the ground finally.

You walk across to the building. You see the signs you are in the place you love. The signs in other languages.

The glass building allows you to look out on the land. You feel elation. Move through the airport as quickly as you can. The wonder carries you on. You don’t mind the long walk. You take in everything you are seeing

You show your passport that announces that you belong to this land to. Even the guards here are capable of kindness and humour.

All the things that are different. You check your messages. you exit the airport to get your bus.

Roy Hamilton ‘The Panic is on’ blasting out. On the top of the bus. Moving off. moving on The green green grass of another home.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wAMXUlVjFZY