There was a time, before I used Linston.
I would always call one of my friends from Negril pick me up at the Airport in Mobay.
More than likely, he would be late.
No worries.
That's when I got my first "Taste of the Airport".
There are all kinds of folks arriving and getting in cars.
Before they re-designed the airport it was very informal.
My friend could pull his car right up to the arrival area and park.
But, since he was always late, I stood and observed.
The best part were the folks waiting for a relative to come out those magic doors.
You could tell, it was a once in a blue moon trip for some.
Anxious folks looking for the relative coming back from a foreign.
Some cool looking guys, waiting for that absolutely, down right gorgeous
woman, fresh off the plane with USA fashions and high heels.
Then the local drivers, waiting for a regular "well to do" tourist,
with that expensive looking matching luggage.
I was always approached, "Need a ride?"
At least 5 times.
Nope, my driver is on the way.
"you sure, maybe you should call him"
I guess they were hoping something happened and they could scoop me up.
They hand me their cellphone, I call my guy.
"Hen Nick, where are ya?
Man, I'm close, I'm close... no worry"
I give the phone back, Sorry Charlie, he's on his way.
Then you hear the yells and hollers when
someone sees their relative come through the doors.
Jamaicans are not shy,
they will let out a holler as fast as blinking a eye.
Mighty hugs are given and received.
and there is always a Junior, a young teen to do the heavy lifting.
Mom tells him to get this bag, carry that box.
It is like an military maneuver,
collecting everything just to get to the car.
So, I think I will tell my drivers from now on,
"No hurry, take your time, let me stand and experience the airport for a while.
I miss it.
