What got you started?

jenkauff1

I'm so encouraged by the testimonies of people who are overcoming obstacles to better health and fitness. My sweet Mother dieted all of my young life, gauging her own worth and value as a person based on whether she gained or lost weight. Even as a child I knew that wasn't right, but I bought into it until my mid 20's when I completely rejected the concept of dieting. Unfortunately, I didn't make the next step of accepting responsibility for my eating choices either. It's been a long journey, but watching my friends and family battle diabetes and heart disease, I knew what would lay ahead for me if I continued on without change. I used to look at food as a way to control life (ironic because I was so out of control), or as an emotional response to stress or anxiety (which was a vicious cycle because every time I overate, I would be completely overwrought with anxiety). It's a daily challenge to look at food as a gift from God that is mean to help me, not harm me, but that is my goal every day. I believe that if I am living the values that God put in my heart, walking in obedience to his plan for my life, the weight will come off because I know I am not mean to carry this weight. I've changed exercise and food patterns and am seeing success. Since June 2014 I have lost 10 pounds, which was very exciting. I'm currently 214 and would like to crack the 190's by December 2014. If I lose more, BONUS! It's just a fraction of what I'd selfishly like to lose, but I am trusting in God's plan and sticking close to him because I love him. I trust him to guide me.