Food for Thought: November 3rd

Learning Moderation

If we had known how to practice moderation, we would not have become compulsive overeaters. Following the abstinence guidelines enables us to eat moderately. Working the Twelve Steps teaches us moderation in other activities.

Knowing when to quit involves knowing ourselves. We tend to get carried away with our determination to finish a job today, to explain our life history to a new friend in one afternoon, to complete a major project in record time. The tendency to devour life rapidly in huge chunks can be as damaging as compulsive overeating.

It is the serenity we acquire from contact with our Higher Power that saves us from wearing ourselves out compulsively. An awareness of the quiet Power and order, which sustains all life calms our over, stimulated personalities. Dependence on God as we understand Him gives us the support and confidence we need to be content with moderate efforts and accomplishments.

Teach me to practice moderation.

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

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I've struggled to find 'moderation' my whole life, with everything, not just food. I have an 'all-or-nothing' mentality, lack of patience, and the desire to put in the least effort to achieve the best result. I leave projects unfinished, then dislike myself for lack of commitment. This is the story of my life in a nutshell.

Finding abstinence was the key to getting my entire LIFE under control, through structure.  The strict structure of the Food Plan leads to the desire for structure in other facets of life as well. For the past 5 years, I've worked on ALL of the areas that need attention: my house, chores, obligations, etc.  I've recently incorporated gym exercise into my structured lifestyle, and I'm finally getting my body in shape physically.

Knowing when to quit, or what constitutes 'Enough', has been a process of trial & error. The 12 Steps gives me a blueprint of how to live my entire life moderately, focusing on peace & acceptance rather than chaos & struggle.

For today, I will not devour life rapidly in huge chunks, but partake slowly, in small & patient bites.