Ash Wednesday 2012

Today's Ash Wednesday, meaning the beginning of Lent. The past few days, I have been hearing mixed reviews about giving things up for Lent. Is it superficial? Is it just an excuse to feel good about ourselves for 40 days (that is, if we stick to it.) What is the meaning behind it? Is it even in the Bible?

I've thought about it, and at least for me, personally, my 'giving up' for Lent will help me get closer to my goals, which I think is God's intent for me. I do believe that God wants me to live to the best potential, even when it comes to my health. By giving up these bad foods and exercising better, I will hopefully be able to achieve my goals I am so determined to.

So, for 40 days, I am giving up...

- Desserts of any kind (Ice Cream, Cake, Cookies, Pie, etc.)

- Pastries (Muffins, Donuts, Croissants, Kolaches, etc.)

- Pop Tarts (I put this in specifically so I wouldn't have them for desserts.)

- Peanut Butter (Almond butter is healthier, but will still be consumed sparingly.)

- Pizza

- Mac N Cheese (My weakness quick-food to make on weekends)

- Burgers

- Fries/Tots/Onion Rings

- Soda (This isn't really that big a deal, since I have one twice a month or so anyway)

I am not going to mention this to people unless specifically asked about it. This "sacrifice" is not meant to be bragged about or given attention. That totally defeats the purpose. I am not going to say that I am going on a diet or anything, because in my mind, I'm not. I will just be making wiser decisions about what I eat because essentially, if I exercise all I want and still eat these things, then it will all be for nothing!

Some terms I have realized I do not like...

1. Diet: It's not about going on a "diet." The focus should be on eating foods that are beneficial to your body.

2. Work Out: For some reason, and I have NO idea why, I just simply hate using this term! It sounds high and mighty to me, and I seriously haven't the slightest idea where that came from. I just prefer to say exercise.

This kind of evolved into a whole different blog post, but the point I'm trying to make is simply that I want to be healthier. I don't want to become a gym-rat obsessed with counting and burning off calories, I just want to be sensible. You can't expect to drink soda and eat fried food constantly and still be healthy. There may be some people who can do that, not exercise, and look healthy on the outside, but internally, their body is saying, "STOP STOP STOP!" (At least, I think that's what happens. I'm by no means any expert.)

So now, it is simply time for a change. I have been wanting this since I was 16, and after 5 years, it's time to make the dream a reality. It's my own responsibility, and no one can make this happen but me. As my blog is called, "Be the change you wish to see in the world." There are so many times when I see kids, or people in general that just seem so unhealthy, and how can I teach to a class of children about being healthy without practicing what I preach? I need to be an example to them, and for everyone, I suppose. I'm just really hoping this all won't be in vain. I know that if I put my mind to it, I can achieve my goals no matter what! It'll take time, but that is fine with me!