I missed my connecting flight in DFW because of a weather delay. I made my way to the customer service counter right away. While in line I watched the agents being screamed at by angry customers. When it was finally my turn the first thing I said to the Agent was “Do you get treat this bad all the time and what do I need to do to get to myself and my party to our destination?”. While the others before me had to book flights for the next day my party of 4 were booked on the next flight out. It pays to be nice to people who can help you. I learned after that incident to fly out 2 days before a cruise and not just 1. When you fly a lot you learn that shit happens and you just need to deal with it calmly. Gate agents have a lot of power to help you if they want.