BLIND SIDED

the luther vandross memory made me remember something else.

years ago there was an airline called mgm grand air. it was a luxury plane that had only 31 seats in a huge plane.. there was a chef on board who made you whatever you wanted . many flight attendants to meet your every need.. the seats on board were all lush leather reclining chairs.

i heard that mostly celebrities fly on this airline and in those days one got dressed up to fly. these were the days before i knew any celebrities so it was thrilling to me.

i was so excited at the prospect of flying on this airline that i ran out and bought myself a 3 piece fancy schmancy outfit. i remember it cost me $500.00. for those days it was a small fortune. i bought myself earrings to match my outfit, new shoes, of course a new purse and the day before i flew, i had a manicure, pedicure and had my hair done.

the morning i was to leave, i carefully put my makeup on and blended it so it looked natural. i did the eyes and blended, i did the base and blended.. i did the blush and blended.. i was always good at applying makeup but that day i wanted to look like i was a celebrity myself so i was ultra careful about everything i did.

i arrived at jfk and mgm grand air, had its own terminal and lounge area. i walked in looked around and didn't see anyone famous but i figured, the famous ones board last. thats the general rule.

i was so excited and yet wanted to appear calm and casual about the whole experience. over the p.a. system it was announced we were about to board the plane. i wanted to be on first since there were no assigned seats and i wanted a seat in the front so i could see all the famous people boarding..the excitment inside of me was overwhelming.. i can remember my heart racing.

i took my seat in the front and waited for the string of celebrities to board.. i checked my makeup carefully.. my outfit looked stunning, my earrings gorgeous and i was just so ready for this experience.

people began boarding and i didn't recognize anyone. finally, the last person to board was JOSE FELICIANO ! the blind singer !!

i started to laugh to myself and thought, what a pretentious ass i am.. dressing up for none other than jose feliciano..

the plane took off and everyone was walking around and i went over to jose and his lovely wife linda and introduce myself. i proceeded to tell them my story.. jose lovingly said.. it didn't go to waste my friend, you look gorgeous.

i've loved him since.