Sticks and Stones

It has been about 2 weeks since I worked out or paid much attention to my nutrition. It has been a heavy couple of weeks. Last Friday after some kind strong words of wisdom from my husband, I was encouraged and inspired to get back on my game, but things really fell apart for me quickly. I didn't realize that I was letting myself be completely driven by the approval and praise of one individual. Although it has been very painful, it is good that that weakness has been revealed in me. I made this picture a few days ago to illustrate how I've been feeling lately:

Nobody should have that much power over me. All those thoughts oppressing me are from Satan. I've worked too hard to give it all up now. I don't feel comfortable going to any gym right now. I need to do something different. So, I am going to give Beachbody workout videos a try. I'm mainly doing it because of the great community and support network that comes with it. My friend is a coach. She is in incredible shape, and I really look up to her as a Christian woman and mom. I'm going to join her team for a while. I'm trying to be optimistic. I just need time to adjust and re acclimate. I still don't have the motivation and drive I need to succeed, but I'm in a growing process right now. I look forward to my spirit getting stronger even more than I look forward to my body getting toned and strong.

"Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." is a total lie. Words can be life-giving or cancer-spreading to your spirit. They can drive you to succeed or devastate you. I cannot express how thankful I am for my husband. His gentle loving words of truth are an anchor for me while I am in this storm.