There’s a lot of frustration, anger and negativity in air travel these days. Planes are packed full, and they’re highly “small d” democratic, bringing together people from all walks of life. We’re increasingly having a hard time understanding each other, we bring our (emotional) baggage on board, and sometimes that’s combustible. So when a really inspiring interaction happens between strangers on a plane, I find that uplifting.

A young family with their 5-month-old baby, Romey, encountered a heartwarming surprise. Kelly Levine, Romey’s mother, was apprehensive about traveling with a baby, fearing her daughter’s fussiness might disturb other passengers. It was the baby’s second flight. The first had happened only the week before, heading from Newark to Cabo. Now they were headed home.

Romey was utterly fascinated by a fellow passenger, Meegan Rubin, who was busy crocheting a sweater. Rubin, captivated by Romey’s interest, decided to crochet a beanie for the baby.

The kind gesture was completed just as the plane landed, leaving the Levines and nearby passengers touched by this spontaneous act of kindness. There really is sometimes – and can be more often, if you choose it – human connection and generosity on a plane.

@kellyryan49 Good people are the best #babies #babiesoftiktok #flyingwithkids #payitforward #goodnews #goodnewsmovement #firstflight #flyinghacks #united @United Airlines ♬ Gods creation – daniel.mp3

Kindness on United Airlines. It resonated so much that this video has been viewed nearly 8 million times.

(HT: Paul H)