One of the finest moments in life is when you get to see your own child brought into this world. Well, maybe not the miracle of birth itself. In a lot of ways the birthing process is really, well, quite disgusting, but miraculous none the less. But the moment you first hold that son or that daughter in your arms all the pain, agony, or difficulty to that point washes away and you know it was all worth it. Not that I, as the husband, had to go through that much to get there. But c'mon, it's not like we fathers have an easy road in preparation for a new little one that comes into the family. We take on more responsibility from the wife, hoping to allow her a little more time off her feet. We are left alone more often as the wife spends time resting, allowing her body to use the energy to create that miracle inside her. We get to hear complaints about body size that we don't dare respond to, one way or the other, for fear of retribution or emotional outbursts. We often take on more financial responsibility that will last a lifetime. Not only do we need to provide for hospital, doctor, and other medical payments, but the little one that was born will need to be fed and given opportunities to grow and learn. That often comes at a price at which I need to prepare for. It seems that too often the women get the bulk of compassion, and probably rightly so, but the husband doesn't necessarily have a peachy role either.
But I digress. In essence, it is tough for the preparation of a new family member by both sexes. The husband just doesn't get much credit. Not, at least, until he holds his new infant son or daughter. Then all the sweat, tears, and worries are paid in full. And then some.
But are there other moments in life that you are paid through diligence? Of course there are, there is no doubt. And that is what I am using this blog for. I am in the search for diligence on something that I struggled with over the last 7 years. I have slowly gained 100 pounds. There may have been times that it wasn't that slow. It would appear that about 55 pounds have come in the last three years since I took on my new job. I used to park the car at the bottom of Old Main Hill to get a good climb and walk to class everyday. Since graduation, I get a good drive to and from work and not much else. I often get home and have to take care of other cares including family, home, church, and civic responsibilities which are all good, but leaves me with little time and motivation to do something active. But that is exactly what I need to have - success in the area of life that makes you feel like you can do anything. Being overweight breeds more unwanted pounds as each ounce I gain makes it that much more difficult to get off my duff to exercise.
Therefore, after trying many times to take off the weight, I am going full force. As part of the full court press that I am using is including friends and loved ones to keep up on me and keep me honest. By telling people of my goal, they can help me accomplish that which I desire. I have already told coworkers of my desire, my church companions, my spouse, and my family. I hope you all will all assist me. I will give specific directions later but I want to thank any extra time you may spend on my behalf for encouraging me, motivating me, nagging me, etc. Thank you, it is much appreciated more than you can know.
With that, starting November 1, 2007 I am going on a crusade to lose 100 pounds, hopefully within a year, but my specific goals will be shared on a later post. After my goals are attained, I will change them up, but will have goals throughout my life in this area as it has proven a difficult thing for me for many, many years.
Again, thanks for the time you may use to help me.
Nathan
aka Fred
