The Layover, the Lost iPad, and the Backup I Finally Made

We often don’t recognize the true importance of things until they are suddenly gone.

Returning to the U.S. from a recent trip, I had a very tight layover at Newark. Immigration moved swiftly (thanks to Global Entry), and the luggage recheck was efficient as well. Security, however, was another story—long lines winding through seemingly endless hallways. With the TSA PreCheck lane closed and just 20 minutes left before boarding ended for my connecting flight—the last one of the day to my final destination—the situation got increasingly tense.

I eventually reached the checkpoint, where everything moved quickly. I gathered my belongings, ran to the gate, and boarded just in time, the aircraft door closing shortly thereafter. Only once I had settled into my seat did I realize my iPad was missing. I clearly remembered holding it moments earlier while waiting at security. In the rush, it had been left behind—at one of the busiest airports, on one of the busiest evenings.

During the flight, I began to fully understand just how much that device meant to me. My ForScore library holds an extensive collection of scores, filled with rehearsal markings, fingerings, and interpretive ideas gathered over many years. Losing it would have been about far more than just a piece of hardware.

I filed a missing-item report with Newark Airport, and it was handled with remarkable care and efficiency. Within 24 hours, I was notified that my iPad had been located, and a week later, I was gratefully reunited with it.

A gentle reminder of how easily we take essential things for granted—what a fortunate ending. And yes, I just backed up my ForScore library now...