I’ve been traveling quite a bit over the last few weeks: cross country to California from Alabama, two trips to Washington DC and a trip to Colorado. Throughout those trips, I’ve made some observations about what people think is appropriate clothing and behavior while on public transportation.
Before I get started, let me be clear…I’m all for comfy clothes and I adore yoga pants. However, I must be slightly old-fashioned because I feel like there should be a dress code for flying. I’m not talking about fancy formal wear or business attire. I’m simply stating that there is a need to stop behaviors, such as wearing sleepwear in public.
For instance, why is there a need to wear bedroom slippers thru the airport?
Why is there a need to wearing jogging pants with an Aztec peach and turquoise skirt, paired with a black and white plaid blazer and purple ankle boots?
Matching pajamas?
The sequin jacket with fur lining looks appropriate for the 8am flight…who am I to judge?
The styles of clothing, while entertaining, was just as surprising as the language. I heard lots of swearing, lots of children being yelled out, and lots of exasperated couples.
The most memorable overheard conversation was a couple behind me in the TSA line in Washington DC. The woman turned to her husband and said, “I wish this line would hurry up. I want to eat, poop, and get a drink…and not in that order.” It was all I could do to not giggle…or turn around to get a visual to match the voice of such a statement!
Through all these observations, I began to reflect on how I’m observed in an airport. While I’m not wearing bedroom slippers or a sparkly jacket, do I look like I showered? While I’m not yelling at my son or swearing at my husband, am I speaking in a kind manner?
In my actions, in my clothing, in my words…am I reflecting the love and joy of being a Christian? This next week I’m going to focus on how my words and behavior reflect that I’m a daughter of the one true King…rather than being seen as merely an observation.
~Emily
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as Christ God forgave you.” ~Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)
Iron Porch 
Emily, I have a feeling you’d like to have said more…but you were very gracious. I’ve seen, well everyone has seen, the total disregard, lack of consideration, inappropriate public appearance and it doesn’t stop at the airport. I don’t dare let loose with what I think for two reasons: one, the ones it would be aimed at do NOT care what I think; two, I’ve held it in so long that I’m afraid if I even tried to get started it would go like a teenager with PMS on a bad hair day – totally irrational. I want to ask sometimes so badly, “do you need a mirror at your house?” haha.
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