So I have been having this conflict at Jazzercise. There is this student who doesn't like me, hasn't for years. And honestly I am not sure why. But she has stormed out of my class before, complained to my class managers, and pouted during class. Fortunately she has managed to avoid me lately by simply going to other classes.
Well this week, another instructor, was sick, and I taught three of her classes. I walked into the first class, on Saturday morning and the student, we will call her Betty, was in class. I was teaching and all I could think about was that Betty can't stand my teaching...it influenced my entire class. She walked out when we switched from the aerobics to strength training and I was finally able to exhale.
So on Tuesday I taught again for the sick instructor, and Betty was there. As she walked in I greeted her and tried to make small talk with her, she barked at me and went inside. As I started the warm up, she stood, barely warmed up and pouted. Then as the second song started, she crossed her arms, walked to the side of the gym, picked up her things and walked out.
I said, "Betty, are you leaving already," and she just frowned and stormed out.
At first I was stunned, and then I realized that class would be better without her there. And it was. It was awesome. I let the instructor I subbed for and the owner of the center know what had happened. Good thing I did, because Betty sent a complaint to corporate and local Jazzercise about me...but get this, she sent it about my dog, Bear. "Roxanne's little dog has no place," at Jazzercise.
Bear is my 'JazzerDog' she has come to class for 4 YEARS now and is such a hit, that students request her presence. She greets students before class. Sits in her bag and looks attentively during class, and then says goodbye to the students as they leave.
It honestly wrecked my day...I was totally bummed. But rather than responding I took a moment...I prayed about it, went to Jazzercise and taught another class and got my frustration out.
This is what I sent back in response:
Thank you for your informational email regarding Bear's attendance at Jazzercise. I just received your email today and thus I am responding to you the same day. As an attorney and a Jazzercise instructor, I take liability very seriously and will take your email counsel under advisement.
On another note, I am glad you took the time to write because I actually wanted to talk to you, but you left during the second routine yesterday and I naturally couldn't stop class to address you. I wasn't sure how to handle this, but as I discussed this matter my radio show this morning, I found some clarity.
I want to ensure that you have an enjoyable experience at Jazzercise. It is obvious by your actions (disgruntled looks, ignoring my overtures to engage you, walking out of my class, and negative comments to my class managers, to name a few) over the years, that you do not like me as an instructor and possibly as a person. I respect that--not everyone meshes. I came to terms with the fact a long time ago that I will never have the abilities you desire in an instructor and as a human being to please you for even an hour (frankly if yesterday's class in any indication, I irritate you within seven minutes). And I want you to know that I empathize with you.
In fact I was impacted by your presence in class on Saturday because I knew my very presence on stage would make your Jazzercise experience less than desirable. Unfortunately we are all human, and instructors do get sick and havec conflicts from time to time. Rather than cancel class, a sub must teach.
I value you as a Jazzercise student and I want you to have the experience of an awesome workout, fun, and if you desire friendship with fellow Jazzercise students, class managers, and instructors. Please share with me your thoughts on a mutually feasible solution.
Thanks again for your concern for me and Jazzercise.
Best,
Roxanne Wilson
Certified Jazzercise Instructor
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So now I just wait to see her response. Stay tuned...
Honestly, I am a sensitive person. It always bothers me when someone hates me. Especially when I didn't do anything wrong.
I was talking to a friend about an issue they were having about people dumping on them. And I realized something, the day that you are not bothered by someone who hates you is the day that something is really wrong with you. Just don't let it steal your sunshine.
I have been vigilant about my dentists all of my life...well until lately. I admit I have gone past the 6mos mark. EEK.
