I fly often.  My carrier of choice has been American Airlines.  During the preflight instructions the flight attendants inform the passengers "in the event of a water landing, the seat cushions may be used as a floatation device."  May?  They MAY be used as a floatation device!  Seriously, couldn't someone have investigated that and come to a solid conclusion before I got on the plane? 

I'd prefer to hear, "Your seat cushion can absolutely be used as a floatation device."....as in...."hey, we know that the whole concept of a ‘water landing' is crazy anyway...and  22 ton airplanes just don't float...at all ...so given that the whole concept should really scare the pants off of you, please rest easy in knowing that if you can squeeze your butt out of the plane before it rockets towards Davy Jones' locker...AND if you take your seat cushion along with you....well, you are going to float.  Have a nice flight!"

I guess I still spend energy deluding myself about the risks of life. Life leads to death.  There is not much we can do about that other than to pretend it is not true. Just driving around Denver requires me to suspend the knowledge that driving is a risky endeavor.  Years ago I was in an accident and the EMT treating me in the ambulance told me there were only two rules of driving.

1. Two physical objects can not occupy the same space at the same time.

2. Keep the greasy side of the car down.

Luckily my new Lexus talks to me.  No, not the "kill everyone in the mall" type of talk, just gentle suggestions about how to get from here to there.  As long as I can tell her where I want to go, she will do her best to tell me how to get there.  Wouldn't it be nice if that system could be upgraded for life in general?

"Your destination of enlightenment is three years ahead.  At the next crisis make a right turn and review your shadow and deepest desires.  Be prepared for delays along your planned route.  During delays, quiet reflection and breathing is recommended as your alternative route.  Have a nice day."

May you experience easy and wonderful holiday travel!