Cat’s-Eye View

July 21, 2008

By Betty Rich Hendon

“Pull your shoes off; take off your belts with large buckles and take all your coins out of your pockets,” the woman in the navy blue uniform loudly announced. At the airport, I was in a line that weaved around five curves before finally arriving at the security checkpoint.

One distraught mother was trying to deal with her child teasing her baby in the stroller. Others in line showed their impatience in one way or another. We weaved around up and down until we reached the scanner’s conveyor belt. I placed my shoes, purse and carry-on luggage on the moving belt to be inspected.

“Take off your jacket. It has a metal zipper,” the scanner’s operator told me.

I complied.

I found my gate and took a seat. Just about the time I was comfortable, I heard a piercing screech. I watched as an older, white-headed lady placed a black case in the arms of another woman. Both were trying to comfort a terrified cat that continued to make the loud, shrill sound.

The ladies were upset.

The cat was terrified.

Bystanders stared in disbelief.

Finally, the cat was taken onto a flight. I was grateful the cat’s plane took off earlier than mine.

There are times when our life journey is like that plane ride for the cat — frightening and completely disorienting. We wonder what is going to happen next. What else could possibly go wrong?

At such times, it’s wonderful to remember we can trust God completely. He knows exactly what we’re going through.

“When I am afraid, I will trust in you” (Psalm 56:3, NIV).

— Adapted from “Paths That Cross,” by Betty Rich Hendon.