EgyptAir: Blissful Memories And Prayers For Victims

I have a few but blissful moments with EgyptAir.

I don't remember much from the long ride to America except a moment of contentment that I was sitting next to my mom and sister and about to embark on a new journey. It was a journey that had led me on many paths in life -- successes and failures, growth, heartbreak and joy.

A journey that began through EgyptAir.

EgyptAir had safely brought me to an unknown place and left me to spread my wings and fly, reach for the stars, strive and thrive. It was as if it knew I couldn’t do all that from where it had brought me.

I was home.

I felt a serene sense of contentment and pride as we cruised in the air. This was yet another reason to be proud of my country, its accomplishments and greatness, I thought.

I felt proud.

I remember the moment I sensed my cousin tense up next to me as we were about to land into Sharm el-Sheikh. I calmly grabbed her hand. I took comfort in being next to her.

This is the moment I go to as I attempt to reconcile with the tragic crash of EgyptAir Flight 804. The moment I grabbed Khadija’s hand flashes in front of my eyes when I think of those who were lost on the plane.

Did they hold hands?

I hope they did. I hope they found comfort in one another in moments of fear.

That is what Egyptians would do -- find comfort in moments of chaos.

Faith in moments of uncertainty.

Peace in moments of grief.

Hope. Faith.

Until they meet again.

Khadija praying while cruising in the air.

Main image courtesy of Thomas Ranner.