I recently had a dining experience that left me pondering the nature of service and human interaction. As my friends and I settled into our seats, we were met with a server whose demeanor was anything but welcoming. When I asked for a specific beer, he curtly informed me they didn't have it. Then just told us to scan the QR code to see the menu, and walked away without offering alternatives.

This interaction transported me back to my decade-long career in the restaurant industry. I couldn't help but reflect on the countless times I'd faced similar situations, always striving to delight customers despite any personal challenges I might have been facing.

It made me wonder: What drives someone to approach their work with such indifference? How often do we encounter service that lacks genuine care?

One of the Yogi philosophy’s branches is karma yoga - the path of selfless service. It emphasizes that our actions should be performed with detachment from the fruits of our labor. To focus instead on the act of service itself.

This server's behavior was a stark contrast to this principle, highlighting the gap between ideal and reality in many of our day-to-day exchanges.

As I sat there, contemplating whether to ask the server why he was treating us in such a rude way, I realized that this moment was an opportunity for growth. For me, not for him.

Responding back with kindness, with respect, with understanding. Perhaps this server was struggling with personal issues, or maybe he hadn't been properly trained. Who knows?

Regardless, his actions (or lack thereof) were a reminder of the importance of showing up fully in every moment, regardless of our circumstances.

After paying, the server turned around without saying a word and left. No “thank you,” no “good evening,” nothing. Bad service. It left us wondering what was going on in his head.

The experience left me with two lessons: 1) That every interaction is an opportunity to be nice and respectful, even when it's not reciprocated. It’s inevitable to interact with negative people. 2) And to always do one’s best, even when facing personal difficulties.

Every moment is a chance to embody the change you wish to see in the world, one small act of service at a time.