What I've Learned From this Forum
 

This morning I was thinking about all I've learned from this forum and thought I'd ask everyone else to pick one thing that's really helped them. I will say upfront that the thing that most affected me I learned from Apryl. Apryl, I don't mean to put you in the spotlight, but it was such a profound thing that I want to say thanks.

My daughter has gained a bunch of weight since boot camp, and I thought maybe it would help if I told her I'd buy her some new clothes if she lost weight. Then I read about Apryl's problem with her Dad and how what she wanted from him was unconditional love and acceptance. I felt so bad because I was not giving my daughter that unconditional love and acceptance, but was falling into the things my parents used to do--which didn't work at all. I want to be that safe place for her to come to no matter what, and even giving her a hint that she's not okay the way she is, well, it's unacceptable to me. So, thank you, Apryl, for teaching me that extremely valuable lesson.

I have learned that each person has their own journey and path. I have learned that love can come in many forms. I have learned that words can easily be misunderstood. I have learned to take what I need and to leave the rest. I have learned persistance. I have learned about courage. I have learned that I am not alone.

Chris

What I have learned:

I have learned that losing weight can be done Its not always a bag of peaches and that there are many temptations, speed bumps and road blocks along the way. I have learned that these obstacles and any obstacle in life can be overcome if you put your mind to it and carry a positive attitude. This has totally been KEY in my journey.

I have learned that you can find the best people and become the best of friends on-line, that even though we’re all miles apart, we can come together for a common goal and help one another.

I have learned that you can’t and don’t always say things people want to hear. This is true everywhere in life. We are each individual persons and all have opinions. I’ve learned to respect what others say, even if I don’t agree.

I have learned that true happiness comes from within. No matter what size, shape, color or gender you are. You will never be happy with anything if you are not first happy with yourself.

I have learned that an 800 calorie diet works for ME and that people truly were looking out for my best interest when they advised against it!

I have learned that without the support of my friends in this group, I would not be where I am today!

I have learned that I love you guys!

I have learned that there isn't one size fits all way to lose weight and that we each need to find what works for ourselves. That may mean some trial and error but once you find something that works for you, you will get those pounds off.

I have learned that support and encouragement is mine for the asking and that if I ask for a swift kick in the butt to get me back on track it's readily available as well.

Most of all I've learned that without you gals and guy here I can honestly say that I wouldn't have lost the weight I have so far and would have fallen off the wagon and not wanted to climb back on a long time ago.