Previous Challenge Entry (Level 1 – Beginner)
Topic: Illustrate the meaning of “A Stitch in Time Saves Nine” (without using the actual phrase or literal example). (01/03/08)
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TITLE: Better Late than Never | Previous Challenge Entry
By Judy Sauer
01/10/08 -
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ADD TO MY FAVORITES
Water aerobics – who would have thought one could have so much fun playing in a pool and actually get a good workout? My daughter and I are taking this class together and we are having a grand time. We are not only improving our physical health, we are laughing, having fun, and deepening our special friendship – all in the name of physical exercise! There is a level of comfort by being in the pool where no one can see the muscles and other stuff jiggle around. Oh, I can feel my goose arms flapping and my thunder thighs sailing, yet no one else can see these physical abominations so the embarrassment factor is eliminated. Halleluiah!
Since my past behavior, attitudes, and actions about dieting and exercise have been negative in nature, I decided to enlist the help of a personal trainer as well. From the first session, I ached but it’s a good ache. Corwin (my trainer) gives me exactly what I need and expect. I am being challenged and receive positive reinforcement along the way. Hearing Corwin say “That’s right” and “Great job” are things I would have never said to myself, yet I find his support encouraging. He’s retraining my thinking. Oh how I have needed this and for such a long time too; better late than never!
During my first session with Corwin, as my physical prowess, or lack thereof, was being assessed, I learned that there is a sense of humility and pride rolled into each repetition. Humility because some of the exercises are challenging, yet there are also moments when inner pride emerges because I am finally taking corrective measures with the right resources to help me succeed. This is definitely a life changing experience.
While facing the harsh reality that I wasn’t doing so well on my own may have stung and bruised my ego, there is no shame in asking for help when it is needed. It has taken a long time to arrive at this place in my life. My track record stunk yet Corwin has made a positive impact from the beginning, and my recent decisions, are most definitely, the best gifts I have given to myself.
I didn’t get to this place in life all by myself though. My journals are full of prayers and lamentations to God to help me look and feel better. I was talking the talk but not walking. Either God got tired of hearing me repeat the same old words time and time again, or a miracle has occurred. I prefer to believe the latter is the truth. How else can I explain the total paradigm shift? Of course God has to be involved; nothing else can explain taking a hunk of flab (both in body and mind) and reshape it into a new creation. Yet, that is exactly what is happening.
While the proof of my efforts is yet to be revealed from a medical test perspective, I know that my actions are making a difference. When I look in the mirror, I see a new me. My clothes are fitting better, my head seems clearer – just two advantages for finally taking care of this personal business. Procrastination is the enemy, not exercise and healthy food choices. I feel good about these healthy, positive shifts in my life. Guess it’s better to learn how to love myself as I approach my 50th birthday later this year rather than loathe how I look for the rest of my life.
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