Reflecting on the Ups and Downs of Life

When a list of questions brings forth a torrent of memories

Photo courtesy of on Pexels.

This is another set of answers to weekly questions posed by Lynn Alexander. Why? Because it’s fun.

1. Have you ever flown in a helicopter?

One time when I was hiking in the southern tip of Chile in the Torres Del Paine National Park, I saw a helicopter circling high above and I figured it was a search and rescue mission sent to the remote location. I sat on the grass, feeling badly for whomever needed the helicopter.

Then the helicopter lowered gradually until it landed in the grass approximately 100 yards from where I was sitting. That’s when I discovered it wasn’t a rescue mission after all. Instead, a military general had flown into the park via helicopter to dine at one of the fancy restaurants.

Although I’m sure many Chilean taxpayers would have balked by the expense of this unsanctioned helicopter ride, I think it would be fun to take a helicopter to lunch. However, I’ve never flown in one.

2. How many surgeries have you had?

During the blizzard of 1979 in Chicago, I experienced severe pain in my right side. It was so intense that I thought I was going to pass out. My parents became very concerned when I couldn’t keep down food or water.