My hero...

Instead of wishing you were someone else, be proud of who
you are. You never know who was looking at you wishing
they were you ...

I had someone tell me today that I was their hero and inspiration. I smiled politely and feeling somewhat embarrassed said, "Thank you! You're very sweet."   My idea of a hero is a solider, a cancer survivor, or a survivor of some other great tragedy that takes its toll on the human body, mind and spirit. So, when someone says that to me in reference to my weight loss I become flustered and completely discombobulated. I have not learned to accept compliments with grace and humility.  When I stated that I wanted to lose another 30 or so pounds she looked at me and said, "Where?"  I could have hugged her for that. 

When I start to frown and be critical of the image that I see in the mirror I remind myself that I am created in God's image and He loves me no matter what.  I will keep working on being as healthy as I can, exercising and making the right food choices and control the things that I can. What I have the most difficulty with is the parts that I have no control over. I will probably never wear short sleeve shirts or wear a swim suit out in public.  I had another whole person inside my skin with me and I've got to love all of me - the total package - wrinkles, sags and all. If God loves me as is, why can't I? 

I am very flattered and proud when I am told that I am an inspiration. I consider it a blessing and an honor.