I eat lunch at my desk. My colleague next to me is vegan. Yesterday I was eating a burger and she politely asked, “Could you please not bring meat to the desk? The smell makes me feel sick.” She wasn’t harsh, but I could tell it made her uncomfortable. I didn’t know what to say — I was just eating lunch.
This morning I saw a new HR notice: “To keep a comfortable environment, please use the break room for meals with strong smells.” No names were mentioned, but I understood.
At first I was annoyed — eating at my desk wasn’t against the rules. But later I realized she wasn’t trying to embarrass me; she was just honest about her comfort, the way I might be if something bothered me.
The next day, I ate in the break room. Later she came over with a homemade vegan cookie and said, “Thanks for understanding,” with a smile.
I smiled back and realized kindness isn’t about being right — it’s about respect. A little consideration can turn tension into understanding — and even friendship.