It’s a sad reality that in so many social situations, there will typically be a person who’s viewed as “the odd one out.” Society simply makes us believe that there are “normal” ways to behave, and anyone who goes against the grain risks getting called “weird.”
Nonetheless, one woman recently decided to become friends with a “weird guy” at her job, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions.
To paint the picture: her male coworker sits near her in the office, and he’s a happy-go-lucky man who’s always smiling. He just has some unconventional habits, though, such as napping on top of his car or doing yoga in the parking lot.
“A lot of people, including my boss, call him ‘weird’ and make jokes about him. But honestly? He’s probably the kindest person in the building,” she admitted.
And more recently, she was utterly shocked at how much care and compassion he showed her.
According to her, she’s overweight, so one day, she asked to join her coworker’s workout session. She came to learn that he holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in exercise science, and he totally took her under his wing.
First, he guided her through a variety of stretches, as well as breathing and pacing techniques. Next, he helped her complete her first run in years, and it wasn’t just a short trek. Rather, she actually ran 3.1 miles with his support and encouragement.
Still, the man’s kindness didn’t stop there. Later that same evening, he sent her a custom-designed workout plan that included references to both short-term and long-term goals.
“I teared up. Someone everyone mocks took the time to help me, believe in me, and invest in me like no one else has,” she revealed.
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So now, the guy that people make fun of in her office is not only her personal trainer; he’s also become one of the greatest friends she’s ever made.
“Moral of the story: don’t judge people by how ‘different’ they seem,” she advised.
“That ‘weird’ coworker might be the person who changes your life. Be like my friend.”
Have you ever befriended someone who marched to the beat of their own drum? What was your experience like? Do you think “weird” people sometimes make the best friends?
I befriended the “weird guy” at work that everyone makes fun of… and he’s completely changed my life.
byu/lovelopetir inTrueOffMyChest
By Katharina Buczek
Katharina Buczek graduated from Stony Brook University with a degree in Journalism and a minor in Digital Arts. Specializing in... More about Katharina Buczek
