On a ten-hour flight from Oslo to New York, Emily, stuck in economy, witnessed a business class man berate a mother over her crying baby and throw food at a flight attendant. The cabin fell silent as the humiliated attendant retreated. The man, isolated after his outburst, continued his arrogance. Elias, a 14-year-old beside Emily, quietly stood, entered business class, and “accidentally” spilled surströmming—foul-smelling fermented
herring—near the man. The stench forced him to relocate to an economy seat among crying babies. Passengers clapped, and the flight attendant, now in a clean blouse, gifted Elias extra cookies. The flight’s mood lightened, with shared snacks and games. Emily, inspired by Elias’ bold move, vowed to be braver. As they landed, she thanked him, joking about checking surströmming seals. His act reminded everyone that bullies, no matter their status, breathe the same air—and sometimes need a pungent lesson.