A lesson learned about mean people

Throughout this weight loss journey I have been on, I have encountered the most fabulous, giving and supportive people on CC and in my life.  I have also run into a few people who's comments or remarks have seriously shaken my resolve.  Here is an example.

Today I went to the gym to partake in my first step aerobic class in over ten years.  This was a big deal to me, because I have been so afraid to try-I might fail, right?

So, I walk in, set up my steps and get ready to go.  Over comes this man (I can't call him gentle) and starts throwing a litteral tantrum about how he get there so early to get his "spot" and I am taking his space and how rude I am, etc.  I could not believe it ( I was as close to the back wall as I dared without crashing into it).  He proceeded to make sure to try to kick me and step on me during the first five minutes of the workout.  So I moved, towards the door, ready to leave in tears: and then I though-I am not going to let him make me fail!!  I stayed and finished the class.

After, I felt like I needed to say something or it was going to eat at me and my insecurites, so I went up, introduced myself to him, put my hand on his arm and told him that this was my first class in ten years, and he almost sent me out of there with his remarks.  I told him I was sorry if I invaded his personal space, and would be more aware next time.  Needless to say, he was shook up, and ended up apologizing.

The reason I am posting this is that we all need to be aware of how our words and actions affect those around us.  We are all here, and at the gym, and walking and counting calories for the same reason.  Let's support each other.  (Shewollf, this is for you :).

that is so awesome that you went up to him. it really shows how much confidence you really have. I couldnt do that I would just end up leaving and not going back, but what you did is very inspirational.
Thanks for posting your story.

Wow...that took guts to firstly stay..I might have either bonked him over the head with the step or left the class. Secondly, for you to walk up to him and introduce yourself...wow. You are one gutsy lady. Double wow. Good for you. Glad you not only stood up for yourself, but confronted someones behavior as well. I don't know if I could do that myself. I am happy he apologized.

 wow ~

people forget their own first times..... good for you... because it wouldve eaten you up later on i shoudve wouldve couldve and didnt...

good for you ~ ....

 

Way to go!  That took guts, and is an inspiration to all of us!

See what I mean?  You guys make a person feel great!  I felt so much better after posting, even though it was probably long for some to read.  I just really want us all to remember what it feels like to hurt, and try and be conscious of what we do on here and elsewhere.  I just love all the different stories of people here, and the fact that we all come together united to be as healthy as possible. :)

Deb, thank you so much for your entry.  I understand that sometimes people don't really think before they post - and their original intention is not to insult or hurt others' feelings.  I complicated the matter because I am a powder keg of emotions right now.  A very huge and serious incident occurred in my life a few months ago,  which has affected my whole family, AND I'm trying to lose weight on top of it.  

My response was more emotional than intelligent.

You are a wonderful inspiration, thank you for writing your experience for me.

You're Welcome.  Have a great new day!

*bump* for the end of the weekend crowd. :0

Wow! What an absolutely perfect response! I KNOW it wouldn't have even occurred to me to do that. I'm going to try very hard to remember from now on. I certainly never want to act like he did AND if I'm ever in your shoes, that is definitely the way I want to respond. Hat's off to you!

Yes, you handled the situation with such class.  I hope that man walked away in full thought of his actions and I'm glad he apologized.  That says something about him too.

I hope you enjoy your next class.  You are going back again, right?

YES! I'm going back tonight, but I have to tell you that my calves have not been this sore in many, many years!  I guess progress isn't always painless!  Thanks for all the great thoughts, CC'rs!

 

Danceswithforks, thanks for seeing the lesson.  I didn't realize this was a "technique"-I just did what my heart and mind told me I had to do.  By the way, I saw your meal pictures-what a bountiful, beautiful spread!  You must enjoy preparing your food as much as eating it!

Good for you!  I'm so impressed with you for confronting him.  I'm so non-confrontational I probably would have just gone away and let it eat at me.  You are an inspiration.

 

And good for him for apologizing - he probably had other things going on in his life and didn't even think about how his words would affect you.  I read a quote that goes something like this: "Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a great battle."  Thanks for reminding us to think about how we treat others.