Putting Myself on Blast -- 147 Pounds

There, I said it. I weigh 147 pounds -- 15 more pounds than I weighed just 6 months ago. I needed to disclose the number to myself and to you in order to feel embarrassed about it and propel myself into action; Because truth be told, I really believe that I carry this 147 pounds pretty well. But its just not healthy and its not what I want for myself. I'm not going to pretend that being "big-boned", "thick" and all the other euphemisms that we as black folk use to describe what really is fat is healthy for me. Well, to paraphrase an old Chinese proverb, "a One Thousand mile journey begins with the first step," and the first step for me is being honest with myself about my weight. Peace.

New Year's Resolutions -- Just for Today

I have made a few New Year's Resolutions for this year: (1) to improve my physical health by releasing weight and eating healthier; (2) to spend more time reading stimulating books, and less time watching television; (3) to develop and maximize my blog; (4) to invest more time in devotion with God; and (5) to improve my financial well-being.

It can be overwhelming to think of the work required to accomplish these goals. That is why the credo of Al-Anon resonates with me, because it reminds me to take it one day at a time; to break down my goals into smaller elements so that it does not seem so overwhelming and to forgive myself should I get off course because each day is a new day to start over again. Here is the Al-Anon credo. I hope it helps you.

Just for today: I will live through this day only. I will not brood about yesterday or obsess about tomorrow. I will not set far reaching goals or try to overcome all of my problems at once.

I know that I can do something for 24 hours that would overwhelm me if I had to keep it up for a lifetime.

Just for today: I will be happy. I will not dwell on thoughts that depress me.

Just for today: I will accept what is. I will face reality. I will correct those things I can correct and accept those I cannot.

Just for today: I will improve my mind. I will read something that requires effort, thought and concentration. I will not be a mental loafer.

Just for today: I will make a conscious effort to be agreeable. I will be kind and courteous to those who cross my path, and I'll not speak ill of others. I will improve my appearance, speak softly and not interrupt when someone else is talking.

I will refrain from improving anybody but myself.

Just for today: I will do something positive to improve my health. If I'm a smoker, I'll quit. If I am overweight, I will eat healthfully -- if only just for today. And not only that, I will get off the couch and take a brisk walk, even if it's only around the block.

Just for today: I will gather the courage to do what is right and take responsibility for my own actions.

I will update you on a monthly basis about my progress in each of these areas. Happy New Year!!!