I wonder if the politeness really matters if, in retrospect, one flings as many insults as he can possibly muster?

You never said, "Well, he was drunk, so I suppose I should allow lenience in regard to his lack of control over all of his faculties."

Nor did you suggest that he might have been a nice person, if not drunk, or that you did not think him all that repulsive.

Instead, you insulted, belittled and castigated everything about the man.

This leads me to believe that ALL of your kindness toward the man was a facade.

If you did not actually feel any kindness toward the man, then why not simply tell him to his face that he was a malodorous, repulsive, loathsome creature, unworthy of the title 'human being,' and that you would be obliged only if he hurled himself from the airliner?

What were you attempting to avoid, or do?

You mentioned that you would be embarrassed.

Embarrassed why?

"I apologize. This man is sexually molesting me, verbally and physically; he smells horrible and will not shut his mouth for a single moment. I know that I should endure this abuse quietly and with a good disposition, and I am bashful to ask, but, would you kindly move me to another seat?"

Of course, this is all the pondering of a bored kid, so please; I ask that you not take offense.

I understand how harsh my musings may sound, but be assured that I am not suggesting that you do this thing or that thing, but am merely wondering.

Good luck on future endeavors.

congrats!

you may not like it laura but, i salute the drunk old man for all that he did!

finally the elderly do something useful for this country.

way to go old man!!

Anyway–hon, this stranger wouldn't stop touching you? And he KISSED you? How did you tolerate him at all? Next time someone bothers you like that, call the FA. That is sexual harassment, honey.

Next time, respond properly when so approached, behave within your station, keep silent, and do as you're told.