The Voice



Today is Christmas. I'm stealing away a few moments to write. We rented a house up near Sonora, California, and are celebrating the holiday with my and my wife's family. It's been a wonderful time of food and laughter. I spoke with my trainer ahead of time regarding the food situation. She said (and this is why I appreciate her) to not worry about what I eat. Just stay mindful and enjoy the company.

In the journey towards finding our healthy selves, I think we experience moments of doubt and negative self-talk. This is hard. I'm weak. I'm not worthy. This isn't going to plan. Well, I already messed up; may as well give up.

I'm reading a book entitled We Don't Die by Sandra Champlain. In it, she refers to "The Voice," a constant companion that's speaking incessantly as a critic towards anything we're doing. The Voice is a gift given to us so we have something to struggle against. Like a set of weights, The Voice offers resistance to make us stronger. More resilient. The best version of ourselves.

The key to mastering The Voice is to recognize it is not you. We are eternal beings of light, capable of great and creative work. The Voice is the contrast. The shadow. The first step is recognizing what it sounds like. Notice its common phrases and its tone. Become an expert listener. Observe how it takes circumnstances and twists it towards the critical. Next, ask The Voice what it's trying to tell you. What opinion is it sharing? You don't have to agree with it. Just notice.

Then, concentrate and see if you can find the opposite perspective. See if you can find words of encouragement and love. This is the real you, truth that comes from your true identity. This is where positive change and growth comes from. It is the source of compassion and light.

The Voice isn't wrong. It's an important part of being human. You don't need to hate The Voice. Merely recognize it isn't giving the complete picture.

For me, during these few days, The Voice is providing me an opportunity to get out of my head and focus on family. To see the beauty in the uniqueness of each of us. To appreciate togetherness.

May you have the merriest of Christmases, full of light and love.

No weight update this week.

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