Takeoff or landing?

I love flying.

The act of taking part in a flight that is. Traveling from one destination to another.

The takeoff. The landing. And everything in between. I love it.

The thrill of beginning a journey and the satisfaction of completing one. It’s magical. Exhilarating. Undeniably satisfying. There’s something unique about being up at 40,000ft.

Take off is about anticipation. A chance to dream, and a joyful leave-behind. It’s about lifting off and freeing yourself from the ground — an opportunity for discovery and new ideas. It’s more than an ascent, it’s the promise of a new day and a wide eyed view of the world from above.

While landing, is more gradual. A measured pace of descent — where the destination comes into view. It all happens a tad slower, where you get a good look at the region below. If familiar, comfort settles in. If new, adrenaline kicks in. And oh, what a feeling that is!

So what’s better you may ask? Takeoff or landing?

Landing. By far, landing. Where the fog dissipates, the clouds clear and the destination appears. The excitement of unseen territory or perhaps the markings of familiarity. It’s all too joyful, thrilling and ever unique.

The last thousand feet in air, we realize the aircraft’s true speed and agility. What a wonder mankind has created. In some sense, it all quickly becomes tangible. The frame of reference nears and appreciation settles in. And then, in a moments notice, you are there. Touchdown.

Back on two feet. And aligned with the ground beneath you. In every sense, you’ve arrived — knowing that the final destination is far from here. Yet another journey awaits…

To the people who make the world a smaller place by going out into it,

-Raj ✈️🌏