**Diary Entry – 15 June 2023**
I’ve always made sure never to inconvenience others. Yes, I’m a larger woman—I’ve had health struggles for years. But to avoid drawing attention, I always book two seats on a plane. My space, my choice. It’s not indulgence; it’s consideration—for myself and fellow passengers.
That day was no different. I settled into my window seats, put on my headphones, and braced for the flight. All was calm until *she* boarded. A real looker—slim, toned legs, fitted jeans, a crop top, hair like a shampoo advert. Everything about her screamed, *I’m flawless.*
I paid her no mind until she paused beside me and scoffed.
*“Ugh.”*
I slid off one headphone. “Excuse me?”
She didn’t answer, just stared like I was a stain on her perfect world.
*“I’m not sitting next to *you*.”*
I took a slow breath. “No one’s asking you to. These are *both* my seats. Here—my tickets.”
*“How can you even let yourself go like that? Ever looked in a mirror?”*
My vision dimmed for a second. I’d heard it before—on the street, in shops, online—but never *to my face*, trapped in a cabin with nowhere to go.
“I have health issues,” I said evenly. “And I owe you *no* explanation.”
I turned to the window, hoping she’d leave. Instead, her voice rose. Passengers glanced over.
*“People like you shouldn’t *be* on planes. It’s unnatural!”*
Rage boiled inside me. Then—I did something I’d never regret.
I stood, hit the call button. The stewardess arrived—tall, no-nonsense.
“Issue, madam?”
“Yes. I’m being harassed.” I showed my two tickets. “This woman is demanding my seat *and* insulting me.”
The stewardess blinked, then eyed *perfection*. *“Your boarding pass, please?”*
Lips curled, the girl handed it over. Her seat wasn’t even near mine—she’d just *decided* to berate me.
Politely but firmly, the crew told her to move. She rolled her eyes, argued, whined about *“skinny discrimination”*—until the senior attendant arrived.
*“Ma’am, the captain has requested you disembark for disruptive behaviour. Gather your belongings.”*
She paled. Shrieked. Threatened lawsuits. Ten minutes later, she was *gone*.
As we taxied, the attendant leaned in. *“Apologies for that. And thank you—for staying calm.”*
Later, they brought me a free dessert with a note: *You’re strong. You’re kind. Thank you.*
I don’t need approval. I’m just done living by other people’s rules.
**Lesson:** Politeness costs nothing—but cruelty *will* cost you your seat.
