FOOD FOR THE SPIRIT

As I mentioned in yesterday's quote, I did have a difficult week. One thing I am learning on this journey to better health, is how important it is to learn from mistakes, then maintain an attitude of optimism, always moving forward quickly. At the end of the posts when I describe a struggle I've had, you may notice that I always write the words, "Lesson learned, and on we go. . . "

Here's why: I know that Satan's number one tool for women in the church is discouragement. Think about it. As wives and mothers, we are absolutely the key to the church's future. Our influence surpasses even our own understanding. We cannot have even an inkling of the power we possess as nurturers, teachers, and examples to those around us. So Satan bombards us with feelings of doubt, inadequacy, and self-contempt. And here's the thing: all too often, it works. How many times have you looked at yourself in the mirror, absolutely disgusted with the way your body looks? How many times have you spoken unkind things to yourself? These are things we would never dream of saying to another person, yet they tend to become so natural we don't even realize we are doing it. These negative thoughts truly poison our minds, and can create a new and unfortunate reality in our lives.

I want to urge each of you to try to be a little kinder, a little gentler with yourselves this week. Make a list of all your strengths. Read your patriarchal blessing. Make a conscious effort to speak kindly to yourself, and to forgive yourself for mistakes you make. Learning to be kinder will allow your motivation to lose weight last longer, and will also allow you to maintain a positive attitude. Let's not just travel this road to weight-loss because it's something we SHOULD do or HAVE to do, let's do it because it CAN and WILL bring us true joy in our lives.

And above all, remember that we do NOT have to do this alone. Our Savior is there for us, and longs to help us reach our goals, both spiritual and temporal. Are we fully inviting Him into our hearts? Are we doing the things each day that will bring us closer to Him? I know we can do this! I know that each time I become discouraged, I can look up! Lesson learned, and on we go!