Lane von Herzen: UPDATE from Airport

My Third Novel's Conclusion, My Heartbreak

My heart begins to break when I think about completing this particular book -- because this narrative has sustained me like no other story I've known. It's both more personal and more universal than my other works. But beyond memory and archetype, it's a cri-de-coeur about needing to become the person one is destined to be. And in the writing, I have met my own life's work, my own fated journey -- having the sense all the while that the pages are suffused with a resonance, an energy, an electrified field that defies explanation. Writers hope and pray to be overtaken by a work in this way -- to be conscripted into passionate service of a profound story. To experience it even once in a lifetime seems a great privilege. I still have several months before this novel is complete, and this constitutes my reprieve. Because I'm not ready for the beauty to end.

Friday, January 24, 2025

UPDATE from Airport

OIG Hotline, please be apprised of my current status. My husband kindly offered to drive me to the airport today, but mistakenly believed I was departing from SFO. Remarkably, Southwest Airlines had a 1:05 PM departure from SFO, but, strangely, the gate agents' computer systems did not allow them to book me on the flight without remarkable delays.

Ultimately, I was closed out of the 1:05 PM departure of the Southwest Airlines flight, with the gate attendant expressing that I missed the gate by "three seconds." The gate was still open, so the prohibition seemed unusual. I have received highly odd commentary from airport security personnel complimenting my appearance today. (Everyone likes compliments, but usually security personnel do not feel free to exclaim that I am "sexy and smart!" upon first seeing me.)

Because I have received threats to my flight to Boston, I am concerned, certainly, about my freedom to fly safely today. When my husband delivered me to the wrong airport, the FBI appeared to claim that this error was a "miracle" that had somehow protected my safety.

There are several later flights to Boston, and I am waiting to purchase my ticket so as to allow for the greatest security possible. That said, there are frequent announcements that the public should report "suspicious behavior" by calling 911.

My vulnerability to false reporting in this setting is likely high. I am currently sitting at an empty gate, typing this update to you. I have one carry-on bag, in addition to a purse. Nothing about my conduct is suspicious in any manner. I documented my progress up to this point, and I will document it going forward as well.

Other than my purchase of a bottle of water from a cashier, I have only spoken to airline or TSA personnel as of this time, 2:09 PM.

Please be apprised that my progress continues to be lawful and honorable in every way, shape and form.

I will now reach out to my husband to let him know of my status.

Thank you for allowing me to extend this update to your Office.

Most sincerely,