Those of us who were Stewardesses/ Flight Attendants knew what it was to have unwanted attention from the passengers. I'm talking about the flirting and invitations men would give us. Usually it was innocent, nothing but a request for a phone number or a request for a date.
On a few occasions, when I was pressed for a phone number by someone who wouldn't take no for an answer- I gave out "dial-a-prayer" as my phone number! (Hm. Wonder if that exists anymore!)
There was one gentleman in my First Class section who wanted to take me out to dinner. Even though he didn't have a ring on his finger, I was a bit suspicious! He was in his late 30's or early 40's- looked successful- and very good looking. I couldn't imagine this man being single. So- I said "Not without a note from your wife- certified, publicized, and notarized!" He looked shocked for a moment and replied that it was none of her business! (Ah Ha!) I just laughed and walked away!
I figured I had heard it all by that point! But No!
We always got a few who were a bit tacky in there approach. There once was a group of four men sitting together in coach. As I came by with beverages one of the men nudged his seat partner with his elbow and whispered something to him. The unfortunate man stuttered that I had nice legs and he'd like to take me dancing. I smiled, thanked him for the compliment, but said No. Then his seat partner who had nudged him said- "Your legs remind me of a cloudy day! I'd like to see them clear up! Ha ha ha!" (Oh brother!) I asked him if his mom knew he talked to women that way- He shut up! I'm sure it was his attempt at being funny- but that was tacky! I found out that these guys had a bet as to who could get me to accept a date from them.
Over 39 years there were many such incidents. A few were "NOT" okay- most were just innocent flirtations and friendly banter.
Now for my regret! I once carried a young basket ball team to Detroit. I can't remember where they boarded. The team members had to be around 10-12 years old. Their coach was a young, good looking, charismatic man- about my age. As I always did, I engaged the group in conversation- and joked a bit (Okay- maybe flirted a bit) with the coach.
I was in the back galley when the coach approached me and asked me to come to the teams game- as his guest- and sit with him. I said no. It had been a long day, I had no idea where his game was- and for some reason felt hesitant. He looked really disappointed! Then one of the boys came back and begged me to come. He said his coach really liked me, was single- and the whole team wanted me to come. I said- "Maybe".
I didn't go. Even during that evening once I got home I had regret- it probably would have been a fun evening- and the coach was a lovely young man! Oh- the times we miss the opportunity to connect with someone really nice!
So that's my regret. Odd how those missed chances stay with us. This was about 48 years ago- and I can still see his face and the faces of his sweet team! It was just a missed opportunity- one that probably would have turned out to be a one evening date. But I think, looking back- it would have been a fun evening- and a fun one for the team too!
Until next time, Dear Readers!
Life Is Indeed An Adventure! Don't Let Fear Or Hesitation Rob You Of Golden Opportunities!
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