How do I define myself? Pinterest would say I am a fun-loving, enthusiastic creative who seeks wisdom and beauty. I would say I am a Christian. Work would tell you I am a Creative Director, Emeritus, and a Professor. The medical community would say I am an ALS patient. I say these are bookends, the prefixes, and suffixes, the add-ons to who I am. Let’s take away these definitions. All of us.
The question posed in the Bible is who do you say I am? said the great I Am.
This is not an identity question as to who do you say I am. For me, this is a question of willingness, submission, and letting go. Letting go of pride, and unforgiveness, and expectations of others and myself. A wise friend, Joya, once told me people will disappoint you, and not because of who they are or aren’t but because of our own expectations. Wisdom, right?
In January, I began a new chapter. I began reading, you tubing, and delving into the science of my disease, and unpacking it, in an effort to heal. I began by letting go...I let go of gluten, sugar, and eventually dairy. Basically, I eat nuts and berries, seeds and tons of kale, spinach, grass-fed beef, and salmon, tons of salmon, and more vegetables. I try to drink 96 oz of water daily and fall short every day.
It wasn’t hard to change my eating, well, the no cheese threw me for a loop mentally, kicking and screaming. I do love me some cheese. What was hard was the increased signs of ALS, the pain and suffering, more sleepless nights as my body attempted to detox if you will. What was hard was seeing the pain my pain caused Steve. What was hard was not throwing in the towel. What was hard is not shedding one stinking pound!
After 3 months, finally, I am on a course of redefining my body. I have more energy and am more hopeful for the next wave of healing, and more victorious as my namesake declares. I may never be healed, but today more than ever I am set free, and I am whole and healed in Christ. Alleluia!!
Next up, letting the Great I Am define me. This is my take-away.
Love & Blessings, Victoria