A Victim No More

The "Victim" or "Martyr" mentality is one of health and fitness's greatest challenges.  When we see ourselves as controlled by others, self-sacrificing to the point of neglect or helpless, we are subscribing to a life of failure.  Yet so many of us see ourselves as "not in control" -- and translate that into being "victimized by circumstances."

Are we really in control?   The answer is yes...and no.  We can't control circumstances in our lives.  Those of us who believe in a Higher Power, believe that someone else is in the driver's seat--always.  But we can certainly petition that Higher Power to intercede, help and aid us in our efforts.  And we can control our responses to our lack of power, by continually going forward -- not getting bogged down in the minutiae of details.  That means NO food will ever have power over us.  That means if we miss a day of exercise, we do not have to engage in weeks of abstinence since we "broke our record."  That means as life (or G-d) throws us curve balls, we can choose to catch them and throw them back...The victim stands and gets hit by the lemons.  The functional person decides to use those ripe and juicy lemons to make lemonade, open a stand and sell the goods to others.

Several weeks ago my job was eliminated.  I was a Regional PR Manager for Lord and Taylor.  I cannot tell a lie.  Being a self-supporting mom, the fear is palpable.  But rather than wallow in pity for myself, I decided to trust in G-d, pray every day and exercise to keep my mind healthy.  Do I know where I will land?  I do not.  But I refuse to knight myself as a Martyr or Victim.  I will use my faith in G-d to understand that this is part of a larger picture--one that I am NOT privy to.  I will ask for His divine guidance to help me each day.  And I will do whatever it takes to help myself.  And for those who may be asking the question, NO, I will NOT indulge in junk food and couch potato habits.

May each of you make today a positive day and stay in the "Victim-Free" Zone!  Judy