An In-flight Poem | By Naomi

by - May 31, 2022

Illustrations by Tan Yi Yun, Chai Zhen You and Kirtikka.


“Welcome aboard!”
Wide smile, cheerful tone
“Here, let me help you.”
Strained muscles
Sweat on my brows

‘Prepare for take-off.’
Sigh, this again

Brightly lit phones still in sight
“You can play later.”
Electronic gadgets are such a pain

‘Safety demonstration time.’
Life vest. Be careful of the bun
Eye contact, pay attention passengers
‘Enjoy your flight!’
Yikes, rushing in heels is no fun

Ah, fluffy clouds always make my day—
Uh oh, code red, baby crying
Warmed milk bottle and extra blanket, check 
Code green, baby cooing 
Phew…oh no, do I hear puking?

Empty sick bag, let’s run
Oops, too late
“It’s okay, I’ve got this.”
Don’t barf or breathe, just mop
“Call me if you need anything, I can totally relate.”

Dim sum lady time
“Chicken or fish?”
“Apple or orange juice for you, young man?
Trolley clattering, stomach growling
Gotta pour with grace, serve the dish

I’ll just take a 5-minute breather–
Never mind, passenger 36B is calling
“Just press this button to watch the movie.”
Finally some water–
Never mind, passenger 36B is calling (yes, again)

‘Prepare for landing.’
A sweet for the kid complaining about ear pain 
“You’re welcome”
Smiles from passengers are all I need
For the strength to do all this again 

“Goodbye, have a nice stay!”
Snap on the gloves, clean up the mess
“Glad to have had you on the flight with us!”
I meant that, truly.
Because I wouldn’t wish for anything more,
Than to serve and to bless

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