Hi Ladies. I really have struggled with maintaining a rational, positive outlook at times in my life. It seemed to be very related to the eating disorder -- sort of an overall negative outlook on life. I have a long way to go, but learning to appreciate the positive things in my life has added to it's quality and the richness of my experience...Any thoughts on this?
Amanda - Thanks for keeping us posted on your progress. We miss you. College is such a big change...so much independence -- so quickly. It is a lot to process, not to mention all the hard work, needed time management, etc...It is okay to feel overwhelmed by it -- I think a lot of college freshman do--and venting here is a great outlet for growth. One of our dearly loved group members recently said that she is trying to say one positive thing for every negative thing that she says....I was really inspired by that...it seems that a big part of eating disorder recovery is becoming more aware of the positives in our lives and focusing on that more than the negative....easier said than done, I know....I am working on this skill though, and trying to see more of the positives in my life....the payoff is I feel better and life is more tolerable, even pretty darn good at times.....want to pal up with this group member and me and try this out with us. It is simple -- we say one positive thing for every negative thing.....??? Anyone else game to try this out?
Jamie- You are so supportive and kind spirited in the way you relate to others. I watch you and listen to you in group and am amazed at the depth of your sensitivity toward others. Also, you are so soothing and encouraging and accepting when others express their pain....what a lovely, lovely, lovely soul you have!
Celia- You have obviously done a lot of hard work to have the recovery that you have! It is so exciting and encouraging to see! You said " I hate being a burden. The benefits of actually telling someone are worth the risk though. I think a huge part of recovery is being vulnerable with someone we trust, meaning letting out the pain and darkness that is in us. I think a person has to be emotionally mature and stable to be able to listen"...........Wow, that is beautifully said, and I agree entirely!! Being heard for who we actually are, accepted for who we actually are and even loved for that, worts and all, is so healing....so healing that it is worth the risk to lower that mask with safe people and allow them to see who we really are....
Jeanette - I hope that you are continuing to take care of yourself and resting. Have you broken out those new dishes yet? :) It was nice to have you back in group last Wed. night....I have missed you and your wealth of experience and insight that adds so much to the group.
Warmly,
Jacquelyn
Sunday, September 18, 2005
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3 comments:
Hi everyone. Jamie, I have missed seeing you. Good job on the positive statement. You are doing a lot just by getting up each mornig and making it through the day. That in itself is a huge success. I hate it also when you can not find a reason to get up in the morning to face another dark and lonely day. You are strong and you will make it through this.
For everyone in group tonight, you all really touched my heart. I want yall to know that you are very strong and you can fight this terrible disease. I dont want to give you a false sense of hope...it is hard and it is not easy to put one step in front of the other. Each day is a struggle but one worth fighting. I have weeks and days where I dont want to live, I dont want to eat, I dont want to be FAT. I hate it..I feel alone and scared. This happened just a few weeks ago. But there have been people in my life that hold my hand and help me back up. Find that someone or those people who can support you in good times and bad. Live for them if you can not live for yourself in the darkest of moments. I know that is why I am still here today...
Hang in there...
-Celia
Hey Gals!
Thank you all so much for your support, wisdom, and inspiration. I have been getting so much out of coming to group with you all and I just wanted to say thank you. This group is the thread of hope for me that keeps me working toward recovery. Trying to focus more on positives and being calm has allowed me to enjoy more out of life and to get a better perspective on how I want to live my life (goals I would like to work toward, etc...) I felt like I was so alone when I went through the refeeding deal last time. I'm glad that I know that I am not alone. I guess I never was, but now the circle is bigger. You all inspire me.
Thank You!
Linda
I wanted to thank the Ft. Worth group as a whole -- I joined you Wednesday night 11/16 and it was very impactful to me. I have thought a lot about you all, and wanted to check in. It has not been an easy week but I have been learning so much!
Funny question -- I got home and realized I was only wearing one hoop earring. I wanted to ask if anyone has come across it in the office? :-)
God bless you all this holiday,
Robin
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