An Exchange I Will Never Forget

Chapter 1: The Flight

As I stare out the widow of the plane at the stars, I wonder how such a beautiful world can bring so much pain upon us. I can still remember what happened like it was yesterday. Since that tragic day, I haven't been able to talk to anyone about it. This is probably why mom is sending me away; away from the grief, away from the pain, and away from the two people who remind me everyday about what happened.

I was pulled out of my trance by turbulence caused by intense wind speeds. The stewardess came by and asked everyone to make sure that their seat belts were fastened. I tightened the strap around my waist. I've never been a fan of flying especially without my parents. With my parents in mind, I began to wonder what life would be waiting in Barcelona.

What would my host family be like? From their description, they seemed like a loving, caring family. They were originally from the United States but moved to Spain about 10 years ago because their dad got a job there. I wonder what my new school will be like. Will they speak English? Will they be nice to me? Will I fit in? Thinking about all the unknowns, I began to have a panic attack.

The stewardess seemed to see my distress and came over to me. "Are you ok sweetheart?" she asked me. When I was unable to speak, she took that as a no. "Want me to get you your medicine?" I nodded back yes. A few minutes later she came back with water and the pill in hand. I took it with ease in hopes that it will calm me down. "Just relax and sleep; we should be landing soon."

About 10 minutes after, I found myself unable to fight sleep and dozed off. My mind was calmed of all the racing thoughts that previously consumed it. What felt like a minute was actually an hour. I awoke to someone softly tapping my shoulder. I opened my eyes to find it was the stewardess. "Goodmorning Savannah! Sorry to wake you but we are about to land and I thought you would like to take a look at view below," she told me. I looked out my window and, sure enough, I was finally here.