“Worry often gives a small thing a big shadow.” – Swedish Proverb
As part of my check-in routine, the airline asks for my ID Card (which, to me, is a really silly time waster, considering people now check in online). Typically, I use my work ID as identification, but today I chose to bring out my Driver’s Licence – a tiny change.
After getting my boarding pass, checking-in my bags and going through scanners that almost require that you get undressed, I sat in the lounge waiting for boarding.
Then I checked my pocket for my Driver’s Licence, it was not there. I did a cursory check of my wallet, and I did not find it. I retraced my steps back to the check-in desk, looking at the floor while walking and asking everyone on my path, “Did you see an ID card on the floor?”. I did not find it, so I returned to my seat.
My wife called to confirm if I had checked-in and I let her in on my worries, looking for my ID card. She was surprised. I asked her to kindly pick any unknown numbers, as her phone number was also on the ID card. Maybe someone will find it and call to return it. In her usual manner, she reassured me that all was well.
Then I sat back down and started thinking of how I will need to get a new ID card, while beating myself up for not just using my work ID, which would be easier to replace if lost.
I reminded myself that this worrying is not helping, so I just sat back to relax. After some minutes, I took out my wallet to have a second look. This time, I had a more detailed look at the slot my Driver’s Licence usually is, and…, it was there. Well tucked in the slot that was meant for it. Usually I place my ID cards in a way that I can have a preview of what is where. But somehow, I just fully slotted in the licence.
Tiny changes, Big worries.
“My life has been full of terrible misfortunes most of which never happened.” – Michel de Montaigne
– Osasu Oviawe