Returning

Oct. 13, 2018-Returning

Things went swimmingly until we got to Frankfort. The plane we were supposed to board had mechanical problems, and they had to get a new plane. Luckily, Lufthansa had an extra plane in Frankfort. We were delayed and missed our connecting flight to Cleveland in the States. That added 5 hours to our traveling day. It was interesting that when the Frankfort pilot got on the speaker to welcome us and apologize, he said that planes are very smart. The one that broke down knew it was in need of repair and sent a message to that effect to maintenance. No one read it until an hour before flight time. Then, the replacement plane that had been sitting across the field for hours hadn’t yet been cleaned. He said the delay was due to failings of their organization. He was not a happy camper. We were supposed to arrive around 7 PM. Instead, we got to Cleveland around midnight. Even though we’re TSA pre-checked, some gates didn’t provide for that. The only plus was that we’ve aged out of taking our shoes off at security. 

It was an exhausting way to end one of the best trips we’ve taken. You know how compatible the group was and how competent our guide. But I feel compelled to talk about something else. I am afraid for the people of the Baltic States and Russia. There is a disease creeping across their countries. It is a plague of romanticism and wistfulness. Many people are frustrated. They remember when life was easier. Decisions were made for them. They were provided for. They forget those who were persecuted, those who disappeared, those who spoke out and were killed. 

The Baltics forget that they are babies in the art of governance. They have been dominated for so many centuries, they had to invent their own democracy. Twenty-seven years is not enough time. They need to adapt what they have and look towards the future. Russia went from a despotic monarchy to communism to a democratic revolution. They too had no idea how to govern themselves. They’ve done remarkably well, but there are always those who are neglected. Hopefully, Russia will adapt and look ahead. The Baltic States and Russia have bloody pasts. They now have vehicles in place for peaceful change. I hope they take advantage of them. 

Perhaps they’ll look backwards to learn, then set the path for a future based on that knowledge. It’s about improving on what we have. It’s about repair, not retreat.

Toby