At The Airport Yesterday

I had the good fortune to pick a line with a TSA security guard who was in an excellent mood, cheerful and friendly to everyone, which was perfect in that moment because it helped make the process of trudging through a crowded checkpoint that much less of a pain. 

It's that part before you take off your shoes and get out your laptop for the security scan; it's where you show your ID and boarding pass, and they have you take off your sunglasses to make sure that you look like your picture.  When I handed over my ID, she noticed the last name and asked if I was related to Carl.  When I told her yes, she burst into such a smile and said, "He inspired me every day of my life."  

Deeply heartfelt.  Like she'd been waiting for an opportunity to convey her appreciation for how he'd expanded her perception of the universe, and here I was at the right place at the right time to accept that gift.  One of the cool things about being my dad's kid is this sort of thing happens with regularity.  It was a little weird once upon a time.  But now it's really fun getting to glimpse the joy in someone's heart after just a few seconds of conversation.    

We shared the moment and I enjoyed telling her, "Me, too."  Then she gave me back my ID and we wished each other a great day.

Comments

[Ivan]

Carl is the man. People get their heads down in the routine and people like him help to look up and realise the trasures of life given to humankind.

[luis felipe gaviria]

hi nick
i love your novels
your dad should feel very proud of you
good luck

[Patrick Batty]

Hi Nick,
I think that is a very moving description of two strangers sharing a moment of understanding.
I found your blog while researching your father's book 'Pale Blue Dot'. The original audio version was on tape cassette, which appears to have been discontinued. Are there any plans to re-release the audio version on CD, or to make it available on iTunes?

[Audrey Harper]

I just heard that there's an actual "Carl Sagan Day" event being held in Florida tomorrow. Will you be attending?

[Pat]

Thanks for posting this Nick. I've always been curious about the phenomenon of celebrity, but also how those near to it react to it.

There often seems to be a cycle of enjoying it, then disliking it, then acceptance, then rather liking it again.

I know my heart swells when I bump into people who remember your dad and enjoy spreading the good word. Just as it sinks every time I hear someone ask "Who is Carl Sagan?". Last Sunday I got to see a bit of both in the same room.

Thanks for passing along the joy. Hers, and yours.