JFK Airport

Was tough to say good by to my family and get into the Uber for the airport. Once at JFK I entered the “air-travel world” so many of us have experienced. Long lines, agitated passengers, a slow chaotic security process, a crowded gate, etc. At check-in I was told my seat on the plane was reassigned and because the plane was sold out an upgrade was unavailable. A full flight, including many kids, most traveling on from Poland as they were traveling throughout Europe for Passover or Easter. People were eating, talking on cellphones, and shuffling luggage on the checking-in and security lines, so many passengers were carrying-on way too much baggage. Cutting the lines and frustration seemed to be the norm. Our flight was delayed 1.75 hours. I went for a beer at the bar by the gate, the bartender informed me sorry it was last call for food and drink.

Like many of the passengers here at JFK, I was annoyed.

And then I caught myself, Tom think about where you are going, what is all this complaining about? You and most of these passengers are blessed to be traveling for pleasure. What have the refugees gone through to travel to Poland (and elsewhere)?  What did they have to carry with them? Are they able to find food, water or enjoy a beer? Can they easily text, call or facetime their family?

Time to change your mindset Tom, time to open your heart.

And then it started, their at JFK Gate 9 Terminal 7. I met Sebastian and his wife Ada. What a lovely couple, were going back to Poland to celebrate Easter. We talked and got to know each other, they come from a small farm town near Medyka, a city that has welcomed and provided aid to tens of thousands of refugees. Sebsatioan and I exchanged phone numbers, and he offered to help me if I do any “border runs” and even offered his brother’s truck, if needed. I also met Alex; Alex was a big intense guy from Tennessee an Ex-Army Ranger. I thank him for his service, and we spoke about why each of us were headed to Poland. Alex was traveling on to Ukraine to join a foreign legion group and help with the fight for freedom. We exchanged numbers and offered support and gratitude for what we were each about to do and promised to respond to one another if either needed help.

JFK is not so bad after all.

Day 2 & 3 4/14 and 4/15-Preview

I am behind in writing this Blog. After arriving in Poland, I hit the ground running (thanks to Frank for having some of the logistics set up before my arrival).  I have been so busy in fact I have had no time to write.

For now, I will tell you we have met some extraordinary people doing volunteer work, and some strong and proud families who have suddenly seen their lives transformed, an uncertain future and a new label “refugee.”  The refugee women, children, and elderly we have met have touched Frank and my hearts and have given us strength and inspiration to help them and others on their journey.

More about the Ukrainian people we have helped in the coming Blogs.  Including our time with this puppy.

Going to bed 4:30am wake up call.