Stranded!

Brian and I get back to Bangkok, so excited to leave for New York. We spend the afternoon lounging by the pool, soaking in the last few rays before boarding the plane for our 30 hour venture home. Our peace and relaxation is soon disturbed by the news of a fellow American traveler. All flights to Europe are canceled due to the volcanic eruption in Iceland. Unbelieving at first, we race to the Internet and check for ourselves. In horror, we learn most European airports are completely shut down, over 17,000 flights canceled. It is unknown when normal air traffic will be resumed. Within hours, our hotel is packed with travelers, also stranded here in Bangkok. Many are attempting to reach London, Frankfurt and other major cities. Brian and I decide to be proactive, head to the airport and speak to a representative. Numerous crowds of frustrated travelers wait in lines, sleep on benches and anger easily over the lack of information. Not since 9/11 has air traffic stopped so completely. We book another night at the hotel, ceaselessly searching the Internet for any glimmer of hope for when we can return home. The news station remains turned on , broadcasting over our small television set the massive amount of disruption this eruption is causing.

We try to make the best of the situation, developing action plans for when we return and researching all kinds of interesting topics. We attempt to keep our minds engaged in positive, uplifting ideas and thoughts. Far away from any tourist attraction or shopping malls, as well as wanting to avoid interactions with the politically distressed redshirt protesters, we are forced to stay within the confines of our hotel and its surrounding area. Food, of course, is a struggle to find and the sun has yet to shine today, hiding behind thick black clouds that loom above my head. Resigned of our inability to change the situation, I can’t help but wonder the lesson to be learned. Maybe it’s patience for things out of my control, or adopting a new plan when life throws a curve ball. In any case, I just hope to return home safely in God’s trusted speed.