Disaster in the Sky

Connie was anxiously awaiting the arrival of her sister. She was flying in today on a zeppelin, the Hindenburg. The ticket had been expensive but according to her sister Ann, well worth the exorbitant price to be able to experience the opulent trip across the ocean while high in the air. Connie had never flown before, so she could only imagine what the world must look like from Ann’s eyes so high above the clouds.

Within minutes of waiting, Connie could see the massive airship making its way in for a landing. Crew members on the ground rushed in as the massive ropes were dropped, ready to tether the airship to its landing spot. Everything seemed to be going smoothly despite the few rumbles of thunder the waiting crowd could hear in the distance.

Then, without warning, the airship became a ball of fire in the sky. Screams erupted all around. Connie felt her knees grow weak, and she nearly fainted as she watched the zeppelin go up in flames. How would anyone survive such an explosion?

Within seconds, the ship was gone. Connie tried to rush in, but security pushed her and others trying to get through back and away from the wreckage. Her eyes, filled with tears, scanned the area, hoping for any signs of survivors. It did not take long to realize that in fact, many of those on board had survived. Although many were hurt, others seemed to be walking away from the wreck without any assistance.

“Connie!”

Connie heard her sister’s voice calling out her name. She turned, and there was Ann. Her dress was in tatters, and she looked scared and frightened, but she was alive. She was alive!

The people who had been holding Ann back let her run past them and grab Connie into her arms. She held her sister tightly, knowing only a miracle could have saved her.

“I was so afraid,” Connie sobbed.

“Me, too,” Ann said, “but I’m okay. Somehow, I’m okay.”

Ann and Connie linked arms and watched the scene unfolding before them. They knew there would be others who weren’t so lucky, and as much as they wanted to leave, they knew they wouldn’t. They wanted to be able to help in any way they could.