STRANGER ON A PLANE

Once upon a time, there were no screens on airplanes. We read or played cards or napped or just sat with our thoughts.

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Some of us, like Macon Leary in Anne Tyler's The Accidental Tourist, focused on avoiding talking to our neighbors.
His seatmate was a gray-haired woman with glasses. She had brought her own knitted afghan. This was not a good sign, Macon felt, but he could handle it. First he bustled about, loosening his tie and taking off his shoes and removing a book from his bag. Then he opened the book and ostentiously started reading. The name of his book was Miss, MacIntosh, My Darling and it was 1,198 pages long. Always bring a book as protection against strangers.

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Sometimes we would talk to those around us. And sometimes, quite unexpectedly, we would find ourselves in a conversation that flowed easily. We discovered a natural affinity and understanding - a simpatico. We talked - and we were heard. We listened to this stranger who would, quite unexpectedly, offer a fresh perspective, helpful feedback, and good advice.

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Sometimes all you really need is a new set of ears. The right set of ears.