Where Have I Been?

You know, I just finished writing a very long post answering this question.  As I have been having trouble with either my computer or blogger, losing posts when I was to publish them, I went to copy my text and ended up deleting it. (Grrrrrrrrr!!!!!)

The only thing that remains is the scripture that I used at the end of my post. And, really, isn't that all I need?

So, to recap my original post (and, yes, losing my posts time and again on here is keeping me VERY humble), I have been lost in a week of minor change and stress. But, not the kind of stress that is new or uncommon. Nothing happened this week that wouldn't be called, simply, Life. After evaluating my reactions to that stress, I see how easily I am prone to give up and resort back to my old lifestyle habits.

I also was able to see that tonite, in a situation that would normally derail my efforts at making wise choices, I DID make wise choices. That is very encouraging after a disappointing week. I didn't use my string of bad choices as an excuse to keep making bad choices. That tells me that I really am learning and growing.

The changes I am making are turning into a lifestyle of change, even if it comes in the midst of failures. I am leaning. I am applying what I am learning. I just, sometimes, need to learn from mistakes.

"Life on earth means there will be change. Growth, however, is optional."
~ Gregory L. Jantz, Ph.D., The Spiritual Guide to Weight Loss, p. 33


^"Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man  against whom the LORD counts no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit. For when I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer. Selah 

I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not cover my iniquity; I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the LORD," and you forgave the iniquity of my sin. Selah

Therefore let everyone who is godly offer prayer to you at a time when you may be found; surely in the rush of great waters, they shall not reach him.  You are a hiding place for me; you preserve me from trouble; you surround me with shouts of deliverance. Selah

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you. Be not like a horse or a mule, without understanding, which must be curbed with bit and bridle, or it will not stay near you. Many are the sorrows of the wicked, but steadfast love surrounds the one who trusts in the LORD.  Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, O righteous, and shout for joy, all you upright in heart!"
Psalm 32 (ESV)