I was on a 10-hour international flight, and I was sitting in economy, middle seat. I’d been traveling for work and was exhausted. I just wanted a meal and a nap.I’ve been vegan for over a decade, so I pre-order my meal every time. So when the flight attendant came around and handed me my tray first, I smiled, said thanks, and started eating quietly. It was tofu curry with rice and a little side salad.

That’s when the man next to me suddenly leaned over and said, “It’s a rule to wait until everyone gets their food. Even if you’re a vegan.” I almost laughed, but he looked completely serious.He frowned. “That’s not fair. Why should you get to eat before me?” he said. I shrugged and told him, “Because I checked a box online?” He didn’t like that. He stood up suddenly and walked straight to the galley, muttering under his breath. I watched as he started talking to a flight attendant, with gestures and pointing.