So we all struggle to find our "purpose" in life. We try to make sense of all the heartache, pain, discomfort, disappointments, shocks, loss and even happiness... What's it all for? What does it mean? If someone where to ask me I would say "ummm...." and stare at them with an obvious look of total confusion. I can't answer that...who can? However, what I can tell you all is that I have found purpose...FOR ME.
After I left my relationship, I struggled but somehow I found this deep down strength and positivity. I began my weight loss journey in July 2010 and started focusing on making Parker's life the best that it could be by giving him a strong, secure and emotionally stable mother. I began receiving emails on facebook from people who literally wrote "You're an Inspiration" in the subject line. I had two people in particular stick out to me. It was not because I had all these nice things, a hot husband or anything materialistic like that (PS, I DON'T have that stuff...just making a point, hopefully). These two woman were commending me for being strong enough to walk away when most would have suffered and ( this is the best part) they were commending me for being such a loving mom and my ability to do it alone. I had another mother text me and say "I don't know how you do it on your own...you're an inspiration".
After hearing that word many times, I took the title to heart and with a lot of pride. I was sooooo happy that not only were women understanding my difficulties, they were embarrassing me for crushing them! Soon, I developed friendships in where women would come to me and say "Ok Tara, need your strength (or advice, or just a shoulder to cry on)". I realized this was my purpose. To live in a way that exhibits a positive outcome to a pretty dark beginning.
Now, I have lost 99 pounds, and the word 'inspiration' continues to be used. I have had friends come to me asking me about healthy eating, exercise, staying motivated, etc... I have even developed a few meal plans for a couple of people. I was told today that my weight loss has "inspired" another couple to begin their path to healthy living...I felt so blessed and humbled that I nearly cried. Especially since it came from someone I respect and admire so much!
I have figured it out....doing things for ourselves it great, but if it doesn't positively impact others then it's worthless. We can be the happiest, healthiest people in the world, but if you walk by those who need help or even just a kind word of encouragement then you're lacking purpose. Not to get all "church-y" on ya, but this is a good verse... (Matthew 16:25)
25 Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to finding yourself, your true self.
I think that just about sums it up...right? I hope to continue to inspire and to be inspired. It's truly my honor to help anyone in anyway that I can with achieving their goals (whether that be weight related, finding power inside, or just being there) and I pray that I can continue to do so.
Hope everyone is enjoying their Tuesday.... Sorry guys, Biggest Loser may be interrupted by Obama tonight :( Just sayin'. Stay positive and motivated. Tomorrow comes too soon so enjoy your 'today'.
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