I’ve always been firm about my rights as a passenger—if the seat reclines, I’m going to recline it. So when the pregnant woman behind me complained on a nine-hour flight, I didn’t budge. “Business class exists for a reason,” I told her. She stopped arguing, and I figured I’d won.
But then, she vanished. The flight attendant later told me they’d moved her to an empty business class seat to keep the peace. I didn’t think much of it—until we landed, and the attendant handed me my bag with a knowing look. Inside, I found a business class amenity kit and a note.
“Next time, try kindness,” it read. “It’s free and makes travel better for everyone. Thanks to you, a stranger’s generosity gave me a more comfortable flight. Safe travels.” I still believe I was within my rights to recline, but that note stuck with me. Sometimes, being right isn’t as important as being kind.
