I fly Delta Air Lines exclusively. As a Diamond Medallion member (which just means I fly a lot), I’ve come to appreciate not just the upgrades, but the consistent courtesy across every cabin. Whether I’m in First Class or tucked by the window further back, the kindness of fellow passengers and the professionalism of Delta’s crew never waver. There’s never enough I can say about how incredibly helpful the flight attendants are in assisting with any matter. But it’s also the people on the plane. Strangers from all walks of life add joy to the journey. It’s life-giving to meet people from around the world. Sharing small moments of connection is a delight. Wow, are we all so much more like each other than different!

Many people complain about flying, but as someone who travels every few weeks, I’ve noticed something in a big way. A spirit of courtesy, especially toward women, from men who are willing to help with luggage, lifting it into overhead bins or taking it down. That kindness warms me all over, and I always respond with a smile and a heartfelt “Thank you.” “Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another” (Romans 12:10).

One example stands out from New Year’s Eve 2025. I was bumped up to First Class, which is always a blessing, but the attitude of kindness is present no matter where I sit. I usually choose a window seat. When the plane lands, aisle passengers often rush to stand. Yet almost always, if a gentleman is seated beside me, he not only retrieves his own luggage but also offers to get mine. I gladly accept because, after twelve hours of coast‑to‑coast travel, every bit of help feels like God’s provision.

In general, I see passengers helping one another regardless of gender, race, religion, or age. If you can help, we all do—even collecting trash for flight attendants. Making space and showing patience are essential. For us window sitters, the kindness of the person on the aisle often makes the difference.

Traveling by bus or train shows the same spirit. Heading into Seattle, I once saw a teenager listening loudly to a video. A passenger ahead asked gently if she could use earbuds. She immediately apologized and complied. “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger” (Proverbs 15:1). That moment reminded me how kindness can diffuse tension and build respect.

I have noticed people becoming more helpful, more willing to forgive mistakes, and more ready to extend grace. Instead of picking fights, they choose kind words. “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying” (Ephesians 4:29). These small acts make life feel more worth living.

So, I challenge you today: speak kind words, look for ways to help, and live out the call to love your neighbor.

As Mark 12:30–31 (KJV) says:

“And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.

And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.”

Because if we are always walking in a spirit of love, life goes well for us and those around us. Courtesy in travel, or anywhere else, reflects Christ’s love at work through daily actions. As a result, love transforms ordinary moments and makes the world a more joyful place to live.

Here is to loving one another and making the world a better place to live through ordinary acts of care and respect.