Damsel DEstressed

Coming back from an intensely activating weekend at UPenn I couldn't wait to get home to do and think NOTHING! As I arrived in the New Brunswick train station, I decided to go for something I never, ever do. Take the train station elevator.

I was tired, I had big luggage, and the door was wide open. I figured, why not?!?

Following me was a cheerful young woman in a wheelchair. Together we scooted into the welcoming elevator and pressed "Ground Level." Whoops, nothing happened. We pressed again, and again. Nothing. We pressed the alarm. We pressed everything. We laughed.

Oh shit we were stuck in an elevator.

With my mighty 5 foot frame I tried to push the door open to no avail. I called the cops who told us to stay put. OK.

Aside from the smell of urine which we adapted to in about five minutes, the experience was positive and inspiring. It was a delight to be stuck with Eloise, a lovely medical student. We trusted we would be just fine.

Here's what I learned:
1. If there's nothing you can do about something, just laugh.
2. Even if it smells like pee, you can find something delightful in a situation.
3. I'm so grateful to live in a country where we have organized systems in place to protect. Thank GOD for the brave (and cute) firefighters who came to our rescue in about 10 minutes.
4. Everything will be OK.
5. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger. I'm taking the stairs next time.

So here's to destressing even when you're literally stuck.

Much love,
Stella