I was actually “on schedule” leaving the house for the first time all week. Still I hurried to the gym so I wouldn’t lose any valuable time. The parking lot at Lifetime Fitness had been pretty empty this week, due to the first week of school, but it was especially empty this day.
I pulled into a space next to a car I’d seen here a number of times. When I got out and walked around to the passenger side to get my gym bag, the driver was standing there. I hadn’t seen him sitting in the car when I pulled in so I was surprised. My mind was wandering off into another world at the time so my next set of actions really didn’t make much sense and that’s where the trouble started.
What Was I Thinking?
I started walking towards the passenger front door although, in hindsight, it was clear he was heading towards the driver rear door to get his gym bag. I said “sorry”, but I kept going and opened my car door. He muttered something that contained a four letter word, showing his disbelief at what was taking place. I said, “Sorry about that” again and retrieved my bag – quickly
I made a beeline towards the door of the building, knowing I’d screwed up. I was totally not present and had epically failed to be considerate of another person who had, for lack of a better phrase, “the right of way.” I wasn’t offended in the least by his audible show of displeasure. He had every right to be upset.
I stowed my bag in the locker room and headed upstairs to hit the weights. I knew I’d see this guy again, since he’d probably be hitting the weights too. I kept my head down and got on with my business.
I Couldn’t Have Written a Better Story
After finishing a few sets of shoulder presses, I moved over to the leg press and started my warm up sets. After a couple, somebody appeared in front me. It was him! With a friendly grin he apologized for what happened in the parking lot.
REALLY?
It was me who should have been apologizing. I graciously told him it was all I my fault and I had “no idea what the hell I was doing out there.” We parted with smiles and I got back into my workout. I was absolutely blown away by what had just happened.
I got in this gentleman’s way because I was in a hurry and completely unfocused. I made his bad morning even worse and I boogied away from the situation as fast as I could to avoid any kind of accountability or confrontation. Yet, he apologized to me. Clearly, he felt the way he behaved was inappropriate, so he sought me out to say he was sorry. What a class act.
I have no doubt the Holy Spirit was there orchestrating the whole thing. The person he sent to teach me was someone with an intimidating appearance whom I could still identify with. You see, he looked like a cross between Kurt Angle and Wanderlei Silva. His muscles had muscles. After hearing him speak, though, it was obvious he was a humble, well-mannered gentleman who’s passionate about taking care of his body.
Have I Learned My Lesson?
This was a lesson I needed to learn about how to interact with other people and I pray I’ve learned it through this amazing experience. I’ve been a very proud person throughout my life. Saying, “I’m sorry” has always been a tough thing to do. I work in a field where I’m expected to apologize for things I had nothing to do with. It’s never come easy and I fail to do it more than I care to admit.
Now, when I see this fella at the gym, I’ll have a constant reminder of the value of being present, slowing down and being considerate of others. For that, I thank God. His love for all of us knows no boundaries. He’s there always to guide us, shape us and help us grow closer to Him. Amen.
Question: When have you had a moment where you knew the Holy Spirit was using someone to communicate a valuable message to you? Have you been the one used by the Holy Spirit to reach someone else? I’d love to read your story in the form of a comment below…
