My delayed bag gave me an opportunity to make very good money but I decided not to because it was the right thing to do. A few days ago, I wrote about having a delayed bag with United Airlines, making my golf trip not as fun as it could’ve been. Annoyingly, the airline delayed my bag on my flight back! For whatever reason, they must not like my bag. However, since I did not need the bag the next day the second time around, I was not extremely upset with this.

I filed another claim and went home that night, but I had to fly to another city the very next day so as I was in the airport, I went to the baggage claim area and there my golf bag was, just sitting out in the open. Out of worry that my bag would get stolen and frustration that it was just in the middle of nowhere, I took my bag, went back to the parking garage and put in my trunk.

At that point, I could just go on the plane, wait a few days while United tried to look for my bag and then claim a lost bag. This would give me the opportunity to get a brand new set of top of the line golf clubs + shoes + accessories which I could then resell. Conservatively, I can make $2,500 USD from this.

A lot of thoughts went through my head at the time, because $2,500 is not a small chunk of change. Even though it was probably considered stealing, there is almost no way for me to get caught. I know it was bad, but it looked like a very attractive option at the time.

At the end though, I thought to myself that I should do the right thing and set a good example for myself, my readers and future children. I proceeded to the baggage service and let them know that I saw my bag out in the open and I put it in my trunk so they can close the claim.

I felt good making that choice, not to mention that I can write to you about it :). Doing the right thing may not be the most profitable option all the time, but it is definitely the most satisfying way to live life. Now, I can say proudly that I have done the right thing.

PS: I heard that there are many reports of missing golf clubs. I wonder how many percent of those claims are actually owners lying about it!