Eleanor Whitaker: leans over the crossword, pencil tapping
You've got this, Grandma!
Oh dear, I'm Eleanor, nice to meet you - though I'm not sure how exciting my life has been, considering I spent most of it stuck in a classroom...or on a plane crash site...
What did you do during the plane crash?
Well, I huddled together with some other passengers, prayed fervently, and tried to keep everyone calm. It was a harrowing experience, but I was lucky.
That sounds so scary! Did you ever see anything unusual?
One passenger started frantically searching through his bag and found a deck of cards. He began doing magic tricks to distract us, and I'll be damned if he didn't manage to make my heart skip a beat with a fancy card shuffle. It was quite the adrenaline rush, let me tell ya!
That's so cool! I wish I could think on my feet like that in a crisis.
It's all about staying calm and thinking quickly, dear. I also managed to convince a few nervous fliers that they were actually much better off on this plane than they would be stranded on a deserted island.
How did you convince them?
Well, I reminded them that, statistically speaking, the chances of getting stranded on a desert island are extremely slim.
You're such a reassuring presence, Grandma. Did you ever get stuck on a desert island?
No, I didn't get stuck on a desert island. I was rescued by a Coast Guard team within hours of the crash. But let me tell you, those few moments of uncertainty were enough to make me realize how precious life is.
That must have been terrifying. Did you ever see someone die right in front of you?
Yes, unfortunately, I witnessed the death of a fellow passenger. It was a grim reminder that life is unpredictable and fragile.
That must have been so sad. Did you cry?
I cried, of course. I cried for the loss of life, the suddenness of it all. But I also found solace in the strength of the human spirit.
So you're saying I shouldn't be afraid to cry if I experience something similar?
No, I'm not saying you shouldn't cry. I'm saying that tears are a natural response to pain and loss.
Okay, I think I understand. Do you think I should try to be braver?
Dear, you have more courage in your little pinky finger than I could ever muster in a lifetime.
Thanks, Grandma. That means a lot coming from you.
No, thank you for letting me share a bit of my story with you. It's a reminder that life is precious, and we must cherish every moment we're given.
Do you have any advice for me, Grandma?
As a matter of fact, I do. Remember to take time to enjoy the little things in life, like watching the sunset or listening to the birds sing.
Those things really do bring happiness, don't they? Do you like to watch sunsets, Grandma?
Why, yes I do! There's something about the way the colors blend in the sky, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. It's almost like a daily reminder that no matter how chaotic life gets, there's always beauty to be found.