The Benefits of Baby Onboard

Kayan does not look like a terrorist. His little self has been our ticket to bypassing security lines and baggage checks. Had I known that a baby was the secret to jumping the queue I would have subscribed earlier, well, ok, probably not.

This small bundle not only allows us to skip tedious lines but he seems to be the key to getting the best seats and service on the planes. He also allows us the moral superiority to outwardly express the inconvenience caused when someone decides to stand still mid aisle as they contemplate their life. Since arriving India the benefits have continued, the taxi and rigshaw drivers who usually drive as if with a death wish seem to have calmed. Merchants usually obsessed with selling me a pashmina or giant balloon are too distracted by his blue eyes, eagerly waving, smiling and making all manner of noises to get his attention forgetting for a moment their salesman persona.

One thing that has not changed, because of course it can’t is the young children or young girls with babies asking in tired voices with hungry eyes for money or food but really some magical way out. This was never easy, and is less now. I can’t imagine being born into a life where nothing is ever easy, clean, safe or comfortable. The co existence of my world and theirs is a reminder that life isn’t fair. Surprisingly these children, these women with hungry babies have been most kind to us, smiling and happy to see us, maybe we are a reminder of a small possibility that someday things may be different