When a plane is taking off, it starts by taxing towards the runway, then it gathers momentum in preparation for lift off, that exhilarating speed that takes you to cloud nine and gradually settles when it’s airborne. In a similar yet slightly different manner, when landing, the plane begins a downward descent and upon touching down on the runway, speeds for a moment then, loses momentum, taxiing for a bit and finally comes to a halt. It’s all so fantastic and interesting especially when we note that between takeoff and landing was a whole journey, that takes you from one place to another, one experience to the next and indeed from one altitude to another.

Amazingly, life is so similar. Many people see and are excited about take offs like starting a new phase in life such as getting married, the birth of a child, starting a new job, commencing a new project, moving into a new house or city/country (the list is endless); there’s usually so much excitement and hope at this phase as you and people around you look forward to opportunities imagined and envisaged at this ‘seed’ stage. Then comes what I like to term the harvest season. The landing phase, when all things are set and people gather to celebrate the finished work. But you see, we tend to forget all that goes on between these two phases.

Sometimes there’s turbulence on the flight and you have to fasten your seat belts. Sometimes, there are weather changes which birth fear and uncertainty, yet you press on while on, trusting and praying for a safe landing. In the same way, our journey through life comes with different moments that people may not be aware of, but only experience when things are done and dusted. But you know what? How well you prepare for the flight will determine your experience on the trip as well as your landing and arrival.

A few key points are crucial as you journey towards your destination. First, your flight selection. Have you chosen an airline that has a high safety score and quite frankly is reliable plus has efficient pilots, cabin crew, etc. I’ll like to liken these to ensuring that you have the pilot of your soul onboard. The Shepherd of your soul who holds your hands through life’s journeys and ensures you reach the promised land. Secondly, do you have a full understanding of the timing of your journey, bearing in mind stops and other factors? This is similar to you knowing how long your project will or may take. Pregnancy takes nine months, building an empire ‘may’ take twenty years (plus or minus), raising a child takes eighteen to twenty one years (could be more) etc. and you need to be prepared to stay the course without growing weary. This is the pretty interesting part, the main part that people ‘watching’ are not privy to. Finally, buckle up for landing. Ensuring your seatbelts are fastened for landing is a must. You do not want to come this far and miss it just at the edge of success or breakthrough. Learn the ropes of surviving at your destination so you are not caught unaware. Marriage comes with responsibilities and adjustments; same with parenthood. A booming business requires extensive management to keep it thriving; while wealth requires understanding to manage, keep and increase it, etc.

During life’s takeoffs and landings, we all should make a conscious effort to be kind to one another. It is so easy to envy someone’s position and later accomplishments without knowing the pain and effort that went into it. I challenge you today to encourage those boarding the flight (encourage yourself too if you’re in the boarding phase too) and hold each other’s hands all through the flight and beyond. That said, also ensure to focus on your journey and seek God’s grace all through the process.

As we begin this beautiful month, I pray it will be filled with beautiful ‘flights’ that will see you moving to great ‘destinations’.

Here’s wishing you a merry December filled with joy and good tidings as you listen to this inspiring song.

🤗