At Houston Airport, following an almost four-hour flight from Oakland and several containers of consumed liquid, nature made its urgent call. While lined up with a number of gentlemen facing similar distress, the fire alarm along with recorded commands went off ordering everyone to evacuate the building immediately due to a fire within the area. Well, you might imagine the thoughts that pass through one's mind when caught in such a delicate position. Glancing at some of my newfound partners, I noticed some increased urgency to complete business and move out. Besides, the lavatory was not a place I wanted to end my life journey. If you have ever heard an emergency fire alarm go off with the calm recorded voice saying basically, "Get out of there!” accompanied by the background siren piercing your ears, you understand how unsettling the experience can be.

Imagine my surprise upon exiting the lavatory to see everyone calmly ignoring the impending doom. Though I looked for an exit to head toward, no one else seemed the least bit inclined to follow. Surmising that if the airport personnel were going about their regular duties, then the alarm must be false, so I headed toward the next gate and the departing flight to Columbus. When I passed TSA screening and people were still placing belts and shoes in the trays, my assessment was confirmed. Finally, the alarm shut off. Blessed peace! Later, I found out that due to heavy airport construction, the alarm was often accidentally triggered. I only wish I had known that 20 minutes earlier as I stood in the lineup contemplating a less than noble end.