Today as I sat on a bike at Bally’s Total Fitness, a gentleman in a wheelchair was sitting next to the bike next to mine. He had been there when I moved from the elliptical to the bike. After only ½ hour of leisurely elliptical activity I was exhausted and looking for something less active but still a bit of a challenge. Little did I know that this gentleman would teach me gratitude relevant to my physical condition in a way I would have never imagined!
He had been starring at a bike for quite a while. As I sat on the one next to his, I asked him if he needed help. He smiled at me and in an independent but quiet voice he said, “No thank you.”
I sat on the bike for 20 minutes and the whole time I pedaled, this gentleman worked to get on the bike and position himself for a workout. I wondered if he was recently injured and if this routine was new or a common in his life. He seemed frail but unwavering in his quest. I politely read my O Magazine while I could see him push to overcome his present challenge.
It was nerve racking to see this very determined man, use the strength of his arms to hike himself onto the bike without falling. Of course I watched through my peripheral vision, and at critical moments I held my breath with each shaky move he made.
After 20 minutes he was positioned but still hadn’t quite got both feet properly aligned on the pedals. I asked, once again, if I could help him before I left. He smiled and said politely, "No thank you.”
His patience and perseverance really amazed me. It also made me ashamed that I took my physical condition for granted. I went into the gym feeling unhealthy, lethargic and sorry for myself and I left with a new appreciation for my body and my workout.
I’m not sure who this gentleman was but I pray that he continues to push forward and teach others, like me, the true meaning of perseverance and patience!
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