Why Are You Doing This?

That is the question that I was asked today. It was asked in true concern. It was asked by a friend that had just led a Bible study I was in about women and food and God. The study centered on doing God's will, leaning on Him and finding peace with food and your body. So her concern was for me and my walk with God. My initial response was because I wanted to compete about 10 years ago but didn't because I was afraid. As I pondered this question all day long, rolling it around in my head, praying for clarity, I kept asking myself is this true? Yes it was. I was afraid of what others would think of me back then. I was afraid of hard work. I was afraid of the time and energy I would need to expend to get to my goal. I was afraid........but I also hated my body back then. I hated they way I looked, hated all the fat I had, mind you at one point I had about 14% body fat then, I still saw my flaws not my assets. Things are different now. Am I afraid of what others think of me? Not really. I am I afraid of hard work? Not anymore. Am I afraid of the time and energy it will take? Maybe a little bit. But most of all do I hate my body any more? NOT ON YOUR LIFE. I love my body the way it is. I love that it carried me through 26.2 miles of the Marine Corps Marathon. I love that it gave me two wonderful children. I love every part of me. I am comfortable in my skin no matter what my size. I am at peace with it. So why am I going to do this............... because I can.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

calorie intake: 1447 (102 g. carbs, 136 g pro., 55g fat, 21.7g fiber)
5 mile run : -608 calories