[Mahler]

Mahler’s Monday Morning Motivator # 81 – Perfect Strangers

Good morning, guys.
Over the weekend, my mind kept turning back the clock to the events of September 11, 2001. It is hard to believe that four years have passed since that day which has changed all our lives so much.

On Saturday, I attended the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire with wife and friends. It has become customary for us to assume characters and dress in costume for the day. I was dubbed by one little attendee who greeted me as “The Red Knight” due to my scarlet doublet with silver shield and black cross and the brilliant red lining of my black cloak, as well as the red gem in the scabbard of my sword. As we moved from event to event we noticed the presence of a group of soldiers in their desert fatigues who were there to enjoy the day. I thought to myself, these are the true knights of today and took the opportunity to greet a few of them and just say thank you.

Earlier in the week, I got a little boost in morale and motivation from a perfect stranger. I work in a secure building and, of course, all employees are required to display a badge and to use their badge to gain access. As I was returning from the restroom and passing a side door, I heard knocking on the glass and turned to see a man trying to get my attention. I opened the door and he explained that he worked in the building but had left his badge at his desk. As a Property Manager I know the rules well and told him that I would have to escort him to his desk and see his badge. He understood completely. We chatted a bit on the rather long walk to his office. I had never seen or met him before, but that could be said of most of the people that work there. When we got to his office I waited for him to open his desk and as I looked at the shelf above it, I couldn’t help but notice the canisters of chips, pretzels and treats that his group kept there. I made a comment that now I knew where to come when I was in search of a snack. He showed me his badge and laughed. He said that I was more than welcome to come in any time but that he knew that I wouldn’t. I looked a little puzzled. He said, “You’re known around here as the fitness guy and I know you won’t eat this kind of stuff.” Needless to say, I walked back to my office beaming and that pouch of tuna never tasted so good.

Have you ever gotten a boost in motivation from a perfect stranger. Feel free to share it on this thread.

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Have a great week.

In Fitness & Friendship,
Mahler