The class was packed with women. In walked a male newcomer. Middle-aged and bald-headed, he's husky and tattooed. His braced legs and cane carried him as he made his way to the front of the class. Within the first few repetitions of our sun salutations, he began showing signs of struggle and I became a little concerned that he may be discouraged and leave the class... but he didn't.
In fact, he gave his all throughout the entire class, taking breaks whenever he needed to and without apology. He was the last to leave and as I approach to thank him for coming, he introduced himself and told me his story.
Three years ago, he had a flu shot and he nearly died. His entire nervous system was blown out and recovery has been a very long process. He spent months in the hospital, extensive time in a wheelchair, eventually progressed to walking with two canes and now he is down to one cane. His neurologist told him to come to yoga and if he continued making the progress he was, he'd be back to work next year.
This... man... is... INCREDIBLE. As he told his story, I couldn't help but to notice his determination and positive attitude and my eyes couldn't help but to fill with tears of absolute humility. It's not often I come across such courageous and inspiring individuals face to face, but when I do I am wise enough to recognize I am in the presence of a hero.
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