Yesterday at the gym, I went to warm up with the double end boxing bag. There were some platforms in the way that someone was using for jumping exercises. I asked a person using some heavy bags if he was using these and another person came over and said that he was. He was very nice and said he has one more set and proceeded to knock those repetitions out and then put the platforms away. Before he was even done putting them away, the guy on the heavy bag jumps over and starts using the double end bag that I was waiting for.
I was a bit taken aback. I thought it was obvious that I was about to use this bag. The guy that jumped in to start using the bag took his time using it. He was untrained in boxing and just jumped around flailing around hitting and dancing around the bag with the most unorthodox technique or actually with no technique. I waited patiently. After 15 minutes or so he finally tired himself out. It was a long time to hit that bag and not take a real break. I asked if he was done and he started telling me that I should have worked in with using that bag. There were so many things wrong with this conversation already. I had no opportunity to work in as he did not take a rest break. He knew I was waiting for it when he jumped in front of me to use it. He seemed to want to explain his use of this bag to me. I honestly was just nice and listened and joked that he warmed it up for me. I began my workout with this bag after he left.
I was happy that I restrained my frustration with this guy. I am happy that I used kind words and patience with him as well. The old me would have probably engaged with him in a more aggressive way. My ego would have been bruised that he disrespected me. I may have asked him if he needs some tips since it looks like he has never been taught anything about boxing. I may have just interrupted his workout to confront him on jumping in front of me. I would have used aggressive words and possibly bullied him. None of these techniques of the ego and small self are beneficial. He for some reason felt that he should do what he did. I was allowing and kind and patient. This created an atmosphere where he did not have to be defensive and left quietly. I did see him staring at me from across the gym. Maybe he was thinking that I knew what I was doing being a trained boxer. Maybe he was thinking that I was nice to him after he stepped on my toes. Who knows? I was happy I fostered a positive vibration that built me up and possibly others. Every time we practice, we get better, stronger and it gets easier.
After my bag work, I went to use some weights. I had two interactions where I was kind again. The first was when I saw a man watching me work out on a machine and waiting. I just finished my second of three sets and asked if he wanted to work in. He said yes and came and readjusted the machine and did his one set. This made me and him happy. It is a rule that no one seems to follow of not camping out on a machine, reading your phone or resting for an extended time in between sets. I then moved to another machine and at the same time another lady was moving to that machine as well. I motioned for her to use it, but she declined. As I started to set it up for my use, I went over and specifically asked if she would like to work in with me. She smiled and said no. I really felt nice practicing kindness, respect and courtesy some more. Again, I get stronger the more I work out whether that is physically or energetically. A high vibration can change others with just a smile.
I sometimes am surprised how much our vibration can make a difference in those we encounter on our daily walk. A smile or a dirty look can impact us so easily. I feel Unity when I meet someone and they are happy that I held a door for them or greet them with loving words. We are all One. We are Love.
I desire and claim the intention of offering kindness even when frustrated because I know that Love is all there is and overcomes fear. I know that all interactions are blessed and myself and others can benefit from my friendliness and loving approach as One. I want to give kindness more and more.
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