We’re funny creatures. Staring at the security lines in Miami International Airport reminds me of this fact. The strands of people weave in and out of the rope lines until they reach the defining moment where it breaks up into eight different paths leading to the X-ray machines.
Here, the security line games begin.
The agonizing look creeps across each person’s face as they are forced to make a quick decision regarding their path. We’ve all been there. The pressure’s on so we have to gather as much information as possible: the number of people in each line, the pace of the TSA workers leading each line, we’re searching for the young family with the overflowing baby stroller that will undoubtedly slow the line.
With a step into one of the lines, we select our “counterpart” – someone in one of the other lines we choose as our “measuring stick.” When we reach the X-ray machine two or three persons ahead of our counterpart, we’re ecstatic. When our counterpart reaches their X-ray machine ahead of us, we’ve lost the game.
As the holiday security lines swell this season, play the game for entertainment purposes only! Don’t let this mental gambling heighten any anxiety you may be already experiencing. To ease the tension, carry these practices with you during your wait in line:
• Breathe deeply.
• Enjoy your spot in line – people watch or meet someone new.
• Say “thank you” for wherever you are heading.
• Smile.
Jason Barger is author of Step Back from the Baggage Claim: Change the World, Start at the Airport.
