What Would You Do?…..(and a chance to win a She Speaks Scholarship!)
Welcome Weight Loss Wednesday gals. Please leave a comment today, even if you are new, letting us know how your week went. I love to see your progress and watch how you encourage each other.
And I love to see you chime in on the topic at hand. Today’s one is near and dear to my heart and goes right along with a giveaway you have a chance to win.
I know many of you get geeked when I give away a $5 Starbucks card. (I love me a skinny latte as much as the next gal) However, this prize is worth over $500!!! (Hang with me….details below.)
But first, our topic…..
What would you have the confidence to do if you weren’t ashamed of your weight?
If you weren’t embarrassed by your “muffin top” (the fluff that spills out over the top of your jeans)? Or if you weren’t so self-conscious about the way you looked in clothes or guilt-ridden about vowing for years to lose weight and then actually gaining instead?
What would you do?
Would you wear jeans with a belt and with your shirt tucked in? Volunteer at your child’s school? Play tennis with your teen? Take a ballroom dancing class with your hubby? Sing in church? Jog down the street like you used to when you were younger?
What would you do?
Nearly 5 years ago when I weighed over 250 pounds, I had a dream. It was something I had wanted to do for a few years, but lacked the confidence to actually follow through on.
I’d been speaking and writing for years, but had never had any formal training, nor been to a writers or speakers conference. I’d written several articles for the Proverbs 31 magazine and was aware that they had a national speaking team.
Several women had expressed to me what a perfect fit that team would be for me since I so believed in P31 and its mission.
However, there was one slight little problem. To be a part of the team, I had to attend the P31 She Speaks Conference in Charlotte, NC. And, as part of the conference, I had to be critiqued on my speaking. By a peer group.
Oh yeah…and since I’d already been speaking for over a decade by then and would fall into the ‘professional’ speaker category, my group leader, who would also evaluate me, was none other than P31’s president and speaker extraordinaire Lysa TerKeurst.
Gulp.
Couple those requirements with the fact that I felt like a failure with my weight, well…..it just sent me to the nearest grocery store to buy and down an entire bag of Coconut Chips Ahoy cookies and chase it down with a pint of some fattening gourmet full-fat ice cream.
I felt fat.
And stuck.
For a few years I stayed fat.
And stuck.
However, once I obeyed God in my eating and made some progress in my weight loss, my confidence level rose.
The next time the conference came around, I signed up. I had no idea how I was going to pay for it, but I signed up anyway.
God saw fit that my flight was covered. I received a voucher for a free airline ticket when I was bumped on a return flight from a speaking engagement. Then, 75% of my conference fee was covered in an unexpected way. It was clear that it was my year to go.
And actually, turns out it was surprisingly relaxed and fun and not threatening at all. My fears had been unfounded!
The rest has been nothing but a huge blessing. P31 is a perfect fit for me and I thank God every day for my connection with my sisters in ministry.
Now—-I ask you again….What would you have the confidence to do if you weren’t ashamed of your weight?
Please tell us (and let us know how your week went)….
____________________________________
Note: The She Speaks conference is not just for current and want-to-be writers and speakers, but also for any woman in ministry. If you would like a chance to win a scholarship to attend the She Speaks conference……read the short post below.
I think I’d have more courage – for many things – but mostly to step out of my comfort zones (which by the way aren’t truly comfortable or comforting) into the unknown, where I am walking out the purpose and plan that God has designed for me. My insecurity about my weight has made me feel incapable of being effective – and letting ‘feelings’ lead me has kept me from seeking His purpose for me with my whole heart. I don’t like that or want to live that way anymore.
I’m not sure what the specifics are, but I know God is.
I’m not sure where the destination is, but I know He is.
All that I’m sure of is that He is moving in me, working in me, preparing me, and beginning to open doors that are beckoning me to enter. It’s due to those recognitions that I am stepping out, beyond my fears and entering this giveaway.
Lord, if it is in Your will for me to attend She Speaks, I pray for the door to be opened and for the courage to leap through with abundant faith. I pray for each woman entering, that You will clearly manifest Your way and Your will for their lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
I confess this past week hasn’t been the best. Both my kiddies had the stomach flu last week and I managed to get a nasty bought of strep throat…I was tired and sick…I ate LOTS of comfort food.
I just desire to be healthy, to feel healthy. To not worry that when I sit down, my spare tire shows. Or to wear a tank top and not feel self conscience about my arms. I also long to be in pictures with my kids. I avoid cameras at ALL costs (much like Shonda).
I know that by carrying extra weight, it is affecting my energy and therefore my energy to do God’s work. So, I desire to lose weight so that I have the confidence to be all He desires me to be.
Thanks for all your open, honest comments. It’s nice to know that I am not alone! I too desire to wear nicer clothes, a dress and just feel good about myself :)
I love your story! Thank you for being so real! Women need to know they are NOT alone in their stuggles!
I have been dreaming of She Speaks for several years. My husband and friends have pushed me to take the leap of speaking. I’ve loved every opportunity I have had to do that. But I know that God wants to fine tune my call and SS would definitely do that!
It’s up to God and I trust that He knows just what I need!
I’m willing to work hard to achieve the confidence it takes to lead other’s through a speaking ministry!
It’s thrilling to be a part of such a cool ministry as Proverbs 31. You chicks are precious!
How can they hear the message if we do not speak? My heart burns to share His word with other women. I want to help generate thirst and hunger…I want my words to have value because they are spoken about and for Him. I want the women of my generation and those after me to become the new Deborahs, Lydias, Tabithas and Priscillas. My gifting and my passion is to teach. If one spark can be ignited, then the flame can be fanned, and a fire will begin. I want to fan the flames.
http://www.tamera-thechamberednautilus.blogspot.com
[email protected]
Hi Karen,
Isn’t it funny how food often holds a spiritual connection. I loved your post!
I’m part of the crowd of ladies posting in hopes of a scholarship and I have to say, Cec Murphey’s generosity is truly inspiring! Almost every time I see the opportunity for scholarships to “She Speaks” and to other conferences, they come attached with Cec’s name as the benefactor. So thank you, Cec and thank you Proverbs 31 women for offering yet another opportunity for a chance to go to this wonderful conference.
As a speaker of over 20 years and a newbie to the world of writing and publishing, I find that the simplest way to express why I want to attend “She Speaks” is because I feel as though I’m supposed to be there and I know that unless the Lord provides financially for me to go, it’s just not in our financial cards this year.
Not only do I sense that I’m supposed to be there, but also that I “need” to be there, as well. I can’t explain it. But I’m truly looking forward to how the Lord will use my time at “She Speaks” to change me, to develop me, and to give me the opportunity to do one of my favorite things…spend time with like-minded women who long to make a difference for the glory of God.
Thanks again for this opportunity!
Eternally His,
Stephanie Shott
Phil 3:7-14
[email protected]
I’d have the confidence to put on my bathing suit and get outside this summer with my boys. We may even head to the lake/beach and get in the water!
My results were good – down 2 pounds. I’ll take it! I exercised less because I was very busy with other things…I need to slow myself down so I can get back into my exercise -and-planning-healthy-meals-groove.
If I got this weight off, I would quit being shocked when I look in the mirror. I would be less self-conscious in general, especially with hubby “after hours.” I wouldn’t cringe when he puts his arm around my waist and his hand settles on my fluffy muffin-top. I would see the girl who is hiding inside.
I skipped the scale this week, as hubby’s birthday was last weekend and I know I ate more cake than I needed. I have been walking daily during my lunch break! Only a few blocks, but I’m moving.
Good luck, Sisters!
I have had a part time ladies’ ministry for about 7 years. However, about 21 months ago, right when it SEEMED the Lord was leading me into a more full-time speaking ministry it virtually became non-existent. Not through any wrong doing of my own, but through some pretty tough circumstances that instead, had me sitting at His feet and simply being still as He worked on transforming me in ways I could never have imagined (which He is continuing to do). Not to say that every day was spent “being still” because I had many days of doubt, questions and wrestling matches. The reality is, God WAS leading me into more of a full-time capacity, except it was God’s plan to first take me through the fire … “But He knows the way that I take; When He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold!” [exclamation point mine] Job 23:10.
God already knows which precious ladies will be the recipients of the She Speaks scholarship. I’m simply excited for the opportunity to throw my name into the hat and will be thrilled for whomever is selected.
Shelly Brown
http://www.shellybrown.com
[email protected]
Wow! I would wear beautiful clothes. I know that may sound silly or materialistic, but I love beautiful clothes- how they feel, how they look, and how they make me feel when I have them on. I would also be more confident in new situations (feeling I stick out) and in bed with my husband.
My week was OK. I lost weight despite a long weekend away with my husband (and no baby!) Things are going OK- except for the stress of our house in NC not selling. For some daily encouragement- check out my blog!
This is my first week and I didn’t weigh today because I was sick all last week and had to be on a steroid. Steroids, as we all know, tend to add weight, so I’m waiting a few days until my body is completely rid of that medicine and then I’ll weigh.
Anyway, when I lose my weight :) I will wear shirts tucked in, cute clothes and get rid of the “fat” clothes in my closet! Much more importantly, I will step forth more boldly in what God has called me to do – speak, teach and write for Him!
Nancy-I LOVE your response and have to say that I second everything you said. I’d also like to ride a bike, wear shorts without being paranoid, and fell comfortable in a dress.
I lost 5 lbs since last month, as that was when I was last at the doctor. I have a new Wii Fit Plus that I love and am working out as I can. I have been grounded from it by my loving hubby until my doc can figure out what is causing my abdominal pain, but I plan to do what I can to keep the weight coming off.
Wow! I am so overwhelmed. My first time to this site. I had a crying fit after reading this. There are so many things I would do, say, or be. I married my wonderful husband 15 years ago shortly after high school. We started on our family right away. Since then I have lived carelessly, taking care of only them. My family is my pride and joy. In this process I have gained 150 lbs. That’s so hard to swollow for someone who was an athlete.I had so much energy, passion, and personality. I still do, but I keep a lot of it bottled up because of fear. My biggest fear hit at Christmas when I had a health scare. Lucky for me most everything checked out good. But I need to take my life back. Be the person God made me to be. I lost 15 lbs since Christmas pretty quickly, but have been in a stand still for the past4 weeks. Pray for me. That I can keep hope even when I feel hopeless. I’m starting each day new. Only with the Lord’s help!
I would love to be able to attend She Speaks, but financially it has been a difficlut season. I pray God will bless the woman who is supposed to win this scholarship, but that He will enable all of us to continue to tell our stories.
I believe that we all have a story to tell. Our stories are all different, but I believe that God is truly the author of them all. My greatest desire is to use my story to show His glory in my life.
I want to enable others to see the Hope that they can have as they trust Jesus on the journey.
The scale didn’t move this week but I’m working harder next week. I’m an emotional eater. Boy, does that work me over.
My daughter will graduate next year & I’m already dreading her senior trip. I know that she wants to go on a cruise or some other trip that involves lots of time on the beach or at the pool. I have a year to take off this 55 pounds but I still worry that I will be too embarassed to swim & enjoy the trip. ( Did I mention she’s the last one?) I haven’t been swimming in a few years & my husband told me tecently that he would like to go swimming this summer. All I could think was not while I look like this. Didn’t lose this week. Still havent’ started exercising & I know that I have to!
My husband travels in his job and has thousands of frequent flying miles. He is always trying to get me to go somewhere and I also have an excuse ready – but the real excuse is the seatbelt on the plane does not go around me. How could I have let this happen to me? I am a relatively intelligent professional 54 year old woman; I have two beautiful grown daughters and 4 awesome grandchildren; and I am 140 pounds overweight. I used Karen’s calorie counting formula from last August to December and lost 30 pounds; however, since the holidays, I have not been able to get started again and have gained back all but 8 pounds. I am starting over today and getting out my food journal (which always helps me). Let’s stay focused so we will not only have life but life more abundant!
My roommate went to She Speaks last year. We were not roommates when she signed up for the conference, but by the time it rolled around I was super jealous I wasn’t going too. She was a little timid at first, but it totally changed her and gave her a boldness I hadn’t seen in her before. So, this whole year, I’ve been wondering how I could find a way to go myself.
I don’t have the money…like a lot of people these days. I do have a heart for women. I’m developing a love for writing that I don’t understand. I have always been a bit of a performer so I’m comfortable speaking/talking with people, but I have no training in either. I’m not sure where God is directing me, but I know I need some honing in both these areas to get there.
Lots of potential…needing some direction.
~Laura
laurarmullen.wordpress.com
For me I think it’s more of a question of how I’d feel rather than what I’d do. I do most everything actively with my kids already but I’d feel more confident in doing these activities if I’d lose weight. I have posted notes on my elliptical saying things like, “Gain confidence”, “feel strong”, “feel good in my clothes.”
All in all my week was a good one. I have to admit that this blog helped to keep me on track. Yesterday I wanted a handful of chocolate chips in the worst way and knew if I did I wouldn’t stop with just one handful. Then I remembered that “tomorrow is Weight Loss Wednesday” so I skipped the chocolate chips and had a handful of tomatoes instead. :) I was down 3 pounds this morning bringing my weightloss to 9 pounds!! 11 pounds to go to reach my goal of 20 pounds!! We can do this girls!!!!
Carol… Congratulations to you and your new hubby!!
Wow, what a great question. I almost teared up just reading it. I realized that there is much I don’t do because I lack the confidence. I let my weight control so much of what I do or don’t do.
*I would love to stand in my closet and know that anything in there fits and looks good on me…instead of feeling defeated and wondering if anything actually will fit at all. Not a good way to start the day.
*I would buy a tankini. Something I’ve never felt looked good on me.
*I would exercise with my skinny husband.
*I would sky dive. :)
*I would ask my husband to give me a piggy back ride and not be embarrassed by that request.
*I would sit in a pool/beach chair in my swim suit w/o covering myself up with 2 towels and a cover-up.
Now I’m going to go write this list down so I can remind myself about this new confidence I’m building. I’ve had a great week. Lots of water, 3-4 mile walks every day, good food choices….but I’m going to weigh next Monday.
I would go hiking with my family and not worry about having to be air lifted out!! I would shop for in-style clothes. And not leave the store deflated and depressed. Is it just me or do the mirrors in clothing stores make you 5 sizes bigger?? I might even ride a roller coaster again. I would hope to be more confident. I know that I should be confident just because Jesus loves me. But accomplishing a goal with the Lord’s help has got to give you more confidence.
Well last week I lost 2 pounds. Only 98 to go!! I have been sticking to my regiment. Please continue to pray for me.
I would wear a bikini. Right now my muffin top flows over my itty, bitty bikini bottom. But I’m on my way. This week was a bit challenging. I’ve had a terrible time with fatigue in the mornings – either due to allergies or my thyroid or both. So I missed some work outs. It even happened this morning, but I worked out yesterday and I’ll fit it in this afternoon.
WTG Jessica!
Vicki, I want to see your style! I think I have peculiar taste myself & have lost it due to becoming a mom. :P
I have never taken swimming lessons, my kids need to learn too, so I’d learn with them at the Y if I was in better shape BUT being pregnant this summer is a good cover up, so I just might splurge on a maternity suit & take the plunge!
Well……I think I would get a new swimsuit if I could reduce this belly. :)
This week I was more aware of eating healthy…..still have a long way to go though. Also, did some walking with the kids, and did some leg lifts with my 1 yr. old hanging on for extra resistance!
What motivation!! Wow. You guys are all great! I’m so proud of everyone and the positive attitudes are fantastic. I love that! I’m down 1 #. It’s going slower than I was hoping, but I can’t really say I was perfectly obedient this week. I slipped several times, BUT have been able to jump right back in there. Exercising has saved me!
The list of things I would do is to long to post!! lol But mostly I want to play tennis again and I want to wear unique cool clothes (well cool by my standards…ha…may be just weird by someone elses!!) I’ve been covering up for too long. I want to wear form fitting clothes and hold my head up high. I’ve spent the last 10-15 years trying to blend in to the woodwork so no one would notice me clothes wise. That’s just not who I am. I would swim as well. SOMEDAY!! :)
God bless you all this week. We can do this!
There are so many things I look forward to doing at a lower weight. I look forward to sitting at the beach and not being so aware of my weight that I don’t even enjoy it. I look forward to having the energy to do more things with my husband and children instead of being beat at the end of the day doing daily activites because I carry extra weight with me. I look forward to wearing that belt with a pair of jeans and tucking in my shirt. I look forward to the time when food is not always on my mind but an afterthought. I know God wants me to have these things and I know he offers to help be obtain them. He has shown me that this week as I waited on Him to bring hunger to me before I had something to eat. This is the first time in a long time that the feeling of hunger has not sent me into a panic. I am starting to break food’s hold on me!! I know it will be a long road, but I have started and that is all that matters. God saw fit to reward my obedience with a weight loss of 3.5 pounds. Thank you Lord!!