Summary of the Core Content
This article uses the incident of United Airlines Flight UA858 being forced to make an emergency landing as a topic. It does not discuss the merits or faults of the specific passengers but focuses on the issue of the boundaries of "indulgence." In many Chinese industries, such as civil aviation, there is a sense of "loving tolerance" towards one's own people. However, some individuals take this kindness for granted and struggle when they are outside China and have to adapt to different rules. The article emphasizes that indulgence is not a bad thing, but it is important to recognize its limits—indulgence is a gesture of kindness from others, not something you are entitled to by default. By appreciating this kindness and abiding by the rules, you can avoid encountering problems when you are abroad.
Detailed Analysis
1. Understanding the Difference Between "Indulgence" and "Spoiling"
Many people confuse "indulgence" with "spoiling," but there is a significant difference between the two:
- Spoiling: It refers to uncontrolled indulgence, such as satisfying a child's demands regardless of whether they are reasonable or not; it is an emotionless form of indulgence.
- Indulgence: It involves showing kindness and consideration, such as a restaurant owner giving a small gift to a regular customer (out of recognition for their frequent visits); it is a warm gesture of accommodation.
The "indulgence" in Chinese civil aviation falls into the latter category: passengers are treated like family members, and the rules are occasionally relaxed (for example, waiting a few minutes longer for boarding or providing an extra drink). However, there are limits to this indulgence—it must not undermine safety or public order.
2. The Nature of "Indulgence" in Chinese Industries
There are two reasons why Chinese civil aviation tends to be indulgent towards passengers:
- Sentimental Bond: Passengers are treated as family members, and the industry is willing to go the extra mile.
- Practical Concerns: There is a fear of complaints and negative media coverage, so conflicts are avoided as much as possible.
However, whether out of sentiment or practical considerations, the result is that passengers are given some leniency. For instance, flight attendants will try their best to accommodate your requests for seat changes or soothe you if you are upset—these are not things you "deserve" by right but rather acts of kindness from the industry.
3. People Who Are Indulged Too Much
Some people grow up with a sense of entitlement due to constant indulgence (e.g., having their parents do everything for them or being frequently tolerated in domestic industries). They develop the illusion that the world should always cater to their needs. For example, on flights, they think that making a fuss will result in their demands being met. However, this kindness is not an inherent right; it comes from the industry's generosity.
4. Why Foreign Airlines Don't Operate This Way
Foreign airlines have a different approach:
- Flight attendants follow strict procedures and do not make exceptions just because of passengers' requests.
- The captain focuses on the safety of the entire aircraft; if there is a risk (such as passengers arguing and disrupting order), the plane will be forced to land immediately.
- Foreign authorities also do not listen to complaints but only consider whether you have violated the rules.
It's not that foreign airlines are unfriendly; they simply don't treat passengers as family members who deserve special treatment. Passengers on Flight UA858 made the mistake of applying domestic habits (where a fuss would lead to accommodation) to a foreign airline, and as a result, the airline handled the situation according to its own rules.
5. What Needs to Change
What needs to change is not the practice of indulgence itself but our understanding of its limits. The article suggests that while it is nice for industries to be accommodating, those who are indulged should learn two things:
- Recognize the Source of Kindness: Understand that kindness is a gift, not an entitlement.
- Maintain Boundaries: Recognize that there are limits to indulgence (such as safety and rules) that must not be crossed.
For example, just because you are indulged at home by your parents, you still need to follow social rules when you go out; just because domestic airlines are accommodating, you should respect the rules of foreign airlines when you travel abroad. By recognizing these boundaries, you can maintain your dignity no matter where you go. Failing to do so will likely lead to problems.
In conclusion, the article is not criticizing passengers but reminding us not to take others' kindness for granted. Indulgence is a valuable thing, but it has its limits. By appreciating it and abiding by the rules, you can avoid misunderstandings wherever you go. After all, the world is not your home, and no one is obligated to indulge you forever.