Food for Thought: March 17th

Vulnerability

When we stop doping ourselves with unnecessary food, we become vulnerable. We have been using extra food as a defense against our feelings. Without it, fears and anxieties surface and new energies are released. Instead of retreating into the refrigerator, we can learn day by day how to live with our exposed selves.

Making an overture of friendship to someone we would like to know better involves the risk of rejection. Saying no to a family member when a request conflicts with our program may make us feel guilty. Asking for help when we need it means admitting our weakness. Exposing our needs destroys our facade of self-sufficiency.

To be vulnerable requires courage, but only as we are able to live without the defense of overeating are we able to grow emotionally and spiritually. When we stop turning to food to cover up our feelings and needs, we are able to be more open with other people. We are nourished by them and by the Higher Power who allays our fears and directs our new energies.

May I not fear being vulnerable.

From Food for Thought: Daily Meditations for Overeaters by Elisabeth L. ©1980, 1992 by Hazelden Foundation.

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I find this to be a very powerful reading! It hits the nail on the head as to why I've chosen to overeat..........I've doped myself up with food in order to not feel vulnerable! I've always worn the facade of self-sufficiency! I didn't 'need' anyone.............I could handle everything MYSELF, thank you very much.  If I'm willing to expose my needs, then my facade of self-sufficiency is DESTROYED!

I must be willing to experience my feelings without stuffing them down. When fears and anxieties surface, I can ask God to guide me instead of resorting to excess food and the refrigerator!

For today, I agree to being vulnerable........I will allow it so I can grow emotionally & spiritually.

For today, I will not turn to food to cover up my feelings & my needs. Instead, I will be more open with others.  I will be nourished by them and by God, who allays my fears and redirects them.