Air travel brings out strong opinions—especially about seat reclining. On a recent long flight, I had no qualms about leaning my seat back, even when the pregnant woman behind me objected. “Book business class next time,” I told her. She stopped complaining, and I assumed that was that.
But then, she was gone. The flight attendant explained they’d moved her to business class to avoid drama. I shrugged—until we landed, and the attendant handed me my bag with a smirk. Inside, I found a business class amenity kit and a handwritten note.
“Kindness doesn’t cost a thing,” it said. “Thanks to you, a stranger’s act of generosity made my flight better. Maybe next time, you’ll think twice before reclining.” I still think I was justified—but I’ll admit, that note made me reconsider how small acts of kindness can change someone’s day.
