Coming to you straight from 10,000 miles above you. I am on an airplane on my way to San Diego for my first vacation to California. As I eagerly awaited the approach of my trip I forgot how much pleasure I get in the mere act of flying on an airplane. I remember my very first time on the way to Orlando as a kid, and I gaped at the ground beneath me as we flew away. I can recount many great memories on a plane, and it feels like a sort of ritual. Going through an airport, for me, is always the same. There bag check-in, airport security, find the gate, get on the plane, fly, get off, and find your bags. Even though the ritual is always the same, each experience is unique and exciting. Today, as I was taking off from Memphis International Airport many thoughts raced through my mind.

Here are the three things that are consuming my mind as I fly away:

1. Flight is incredible.

First off, flying has always been something that has completely amazed me. How in the world did the Wright Bros. discover ways in which to make this possible. Now, flight and flying is so usual – a commodity. I think even though it is so common and normal in our everyday life, it is important to marvel over the technology that gets us and the things we need from place to place. It is truly amazing.

2. I got a new perspective on my city.

During takeoff I was wondering if I would be able to find my college or the Pyramid or the Bridge as we flew away, and I was very excited as I pointed everything out as we flew past my home. Memphis, Tenn. home of the Grizzlies, world’s best BBQ, and some Elvis guy. I have never lived anywhere else, and I have felt the interesting feeling to be in the same place your whole life but everything around you and your attitudes are ever changing. I remember just four short years ago I wanted so badly to go somewhere else and experience another place, but when the great big college decision had to happen I realized something important. Even if I stayed I would experience my city in a completely different and new way, and I was so right. From above, the city is beautiful; I am so proud to call it home.

3. I feel so small.

The most overwhelming feeling I got as I left the ground was realizing that I was so small in the world. I do not say this in a manner to belittle everyone, but it just humbled me. I think that things that happen in my life are so large and troubling and important, but to know that there are so many more things to life than worrying about petty trials. As I look at the clouds, the sky, and the land I think of the multitude of the Earth and the galaxy, and I can say that I have a good life and that I am very happy.