Proximity Peril

When you're flying, you can never be safe enough. If aerospace engineers can develop systems that enable pilots to see through the fog, read the ground like a Nintendo action video game, more power to them. Now if we could just come up with a guidance system that would help us navigate our spiritual airspace.

Last summer, in early July, two pilots for a major U.S. airline attempted to get through security with two cups of coffee. This was no longer allowed, they were told, because of new security restrictions.

The pilots threw a couple hissy fits, and that's when security personnel noticed not only the unprofessional behavior, but also the flushed faces and red eyes. These guys were three sheets to the wind, and were about to step - or stagger - into the cockpit.
In fact, they did get their plane away from the gate and were making for the runway when the tower, alerted to their condition, ordered them back to the gate. The inebriated pilots were jailed, posted bond and could face up to five years in prison.

Terra firma. When you see the pope deplane, get to his knees and kiss the ground, it's not just a gesture of affection for the homeland. He probably hates flying and - "Gratia Deo!"- is glad to be earthbound once again.

If - if you are flying, then the ground is not a good thing. You're...