I never imagined that a routine flight would lead to an encounter that would change my life forever. What started with a crumpled note and a ten-dollar bill ended up becoming the beginning of a lifelong bond.As I boarded the plane for what I thought would be just another trip home to see my grandparents, I settled into my aisle seat with no expectations. Beside me sat a young boy, perhaps ten or eleven years old, who seemed nervous and out of place. I assumed his parent would soon join him, but as the plane prepared for takeoff, I realized he was alone. His uneasy glances around the cabin and his tight grip on the safety card in front of him showed that he wasn’t comfortable with the situation.I tried to offer him a reassuring smile, but he quickly looked away, so I decided to give him space. As I checked my phone, I noticed the boy reaching out with a trembling hand, offering me a crumpled piece of paper. A ten-dollar bill peeked out from the note, and when I unfolded it, I read something that made my heart sink,

“Please, if you’re reading this, it means my son, who has autism, is sitting next to you. He might be nervous and might ask several times how soon the plane is going to land. I am his mom, and I will pick him up at the airport when he lands. Please be kind and patient. Here is $10 for your patience. Here is my number if he needs anything.”I felt a lump in my throat as I looked at the boy, who was now staring straight ahead, his small hands clenched into fists. The ten dollars in my hand felt like a heavy responsibility. This wasn’t just about a child on a plane; it was about a mother’s love and trust in a stranger to look after her son.I quickly connected to the plane’s Wi-Fi and texted the number on the note: “Hi, my name’s Derek. I’m sitting next to your son on the plane. He’s doing just fine, but I wanted to let you know I’m here if he needs anything.”Her response was immediate: “Thank you so much, Derek. He’s had a rough few days, but I know he’ll be okay with you there. Please let him know I’m thinking of him.”