I'm no fan or being sentenced to sit by someone who is offensive somehow--especially if I'm flying first or some upgraded class. But I DO believe in tolerance--within certain bounds. And someone's smell not matter how bad--although DEEPLY offensive--I would find a way to take care of myself and pray often. There is a lot to be learned spiritually through suffering. I believe people often that have not enough money to buy their way out of unpleasantness can develop great skills of tolerance and even prayer to make it through as they often have no alternative. (I partially think this reality contributes to the passage in the bible about rich people and the eye of the needle.)
I feel there is much to be learned spiritually and in the way of personal development by suffering.
Also what of the person who smells a certain way? If it truly was the nature of her scent derived from her skin color and history. So be it. This is no fault of hers. And is a cultural issue. I find the scent of foods from different cultures offensive at times. But do I ask that they stop? No. I'm sure there are things I do that are offensive to others through no fault of my own.
It brings tears to my eyes for anyone who does have a certain scent that is genetic and are shunned for it. No matter what the race or circumstance.
It is quite another thing when a person purposely does not wash. That is often something that can be controlled. Homeless people often smell foul as they've limited if any access to washing facilities on an hourly basis like non homeless people. But that is not the nature of this situation on the plane and I find it offensive they kicked her off. Very sad indeed.
/rant
There was a trick from the 19th century that most people used... a hankie saturated with perfume held to one’s nose.
There was a trick from the 19th century that most people used... a hankie saturated with perfume held to one’s nose.