As most everyone in my life knows, I am working hard on my health and weight through a new eating lifestyle and through exercise, including running, one step at a time. Baby steps. I began running about 5 months ago and I'm still at it! About 2 months ago, our assimilation pastor at Crossroads Church, Preston Blair, and I had a talk. I felt as though God was opening a door for me to lead my own small group at Crossroads. I prayed about it and immediately knew that I had to say yes. And I did say yes. That is when the 5K Group STEP ONE began.My first reaction after committing to leading it was disbelief that I said yes, but I had a sense of peace that cannot be explained. I knew that God really wanted me to do this and He also knew that I had some doubts in myself, but I also felt peace cause I knew He would bring me through it. I have not had any regrets. Only lots of joy, happiness, and gratitude to hear others' stories.
Our first day was yesterday. It began with 30+ individuals who showed up for day one of training with a lot of anticipation, anxiety, and a little fear. Much like the feelings I had when I first started. I felt honored that God would pick me to lead these people who were so willing to listen to ME, of all people, about exercise. This is pretty funny to me because I've never considered myself athletic in any sense of the word. But I had to think back to the beginning of this part of my journey that this was more than exercise. Or weight loss. Or health. It is about overcoming obstacles. I realized yesterday that a couple months ago when I committed to doing this group I saw this as a challenge and somewhat of an obstacle to overcome. Through much prayer and encouragement from others, the obstacle was INVISIBLE yesterday. I never felt any fear, anxiety, or any other negative feelings. I have to give much thanks for the support from my family and friends who encourage me every day. And for new friends I've made through this part of my story, including the people at Geaux Run, who support even those who finish last. I love each of you so much!This 5K group is going to help so many people, including me. It is humbling that God would think so much of me that He would choose ME for this task. I hope these next weeks those who read this will be encouraged that this is only beginning...
Do not give up. The beginning is the hardest.
2 comments:
Good for you! The hardest part is starting. I feel like I go through it every day that I need to exercise, but once I get going, I feel so much better. Yay you!
Its not always about being the leader but about helping each other through encouragement, fellowship, friendship. Some days we are leaders somedays we are followers, sometimes we walk alongside.
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