A shocking incident recently happened on a plane that reminds us how some people forget common sense when following their beliefs. A man refused to stay in his seat or pray in private. Instead, he chose to pray in the middle of the airplane aisle. When a crew member asked him to move, he did not listen—and even punched the crew member in the face.
This was not a small problem. It put other passengers in danger, caused fear, and disrupted the flight. Unfortunately, this is not the first time such behavior has happened. Sometimes, public spaces—like sidewalks, offices, parks, or planes—become places where people try to force their beliefs on everyone else. Then, when someone objects, it is called a “minority conflict” or a “cultural issue,” as if hurting others or breaking rules is okay because of religion.
Every day, ordinary people are forced to adjust their lives to avoid arguments or problems with those who insist on doing whatever they want in public. Watching people get hurt or scared because of someone else’s actions is upsetting. And yet, when news of such incidents spreads, the story is often told in a way that makes the person asking for safety seem like the bad guy. The person acting aggressively is treated as if their behavior is acceptable because of their faith.
Freedom of religion is important, but it does not mean anyone can break rules or hurt others. Personal belief should never come before safety, fairness, or respect for other people. When public spaces become places of conflict, everyone suffers. The aisle of a plane should be safe for walking, not a place for fights over rituals.
It is time to be clear: following your faith is your choice, but it should not harm or scare other people. Respecting rules and others’ safety is part of living together. When personal beliefs cross that line, it is society that pays the price.
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