Body Image

My 1 year anniversary is coming up on 10/13/04. I'm down 200+ pounds but having difficulty with body image (still see old one in the mirror). Anyone else having the same? Does anyone know of poem I saw on here once called, The Woman In The Mirror? e-mail it to me if you can, I can't find it and loved it. Thanks, Deborah

Deb, Happy re-birthday. You are doing great. We have the same WLS date. I also have the immage issue. When i talk about it to anyone that has not been through it they NEVER understand what i am trying to say. I feel like i am traped in the mirror even though I feel great and all it still haunts my every move. Your not alone. Judy

Deborah, I will post the poem now... Kathy

Hey Deb, you're doing great!!! What you're experiencing is perfectly normal. A psychologist came to one of our support group meetings, and someone asked that very question. He said that we lose the weight so fast that our minds haven't caught up, yet. Give it time to catch up. In the mean time, just keep telling yourself that you are thin and you look great! Remind yourself of all the signs that show you that you're thinner. The size clothing you now wear, the fact that you can sit in a booth at a restaurant and nothing hangs over the table , and listen to all of the compliments that others give you. You should feel so proud of your accomplishments this past year! I'm proud of all of us!!!!! Think thin! Your WL Buddy, Jane

I reached my one year anniversary on October 14 and until just a few weeks ago, I had the same issues with seeing the old "fat" person in the mirror. It has gotten mush better now, though. I believe the mind just needs time to catch up with the body! Most of us were heavy for so long and our minds were so used to that. It will take a while for everything to adjust to our new smaller selves. I have been counseling with my assistant pastor and he reminded me that God sees us as we truly are and we should see ourselves that way too. We know in our minds that we are thinner, so allow your eyes to see the new beautiful self. It will happen - one day you'll be walking in the mall and see a reflection of a beautiful person in a window then you'll realize that it is YOU! The new person! Tell yourself every day that you are beautiful, you are smaller and thinner and you are perfect. Say it until you believe it, then say it because it is true! Congratulations on the absolutely fantastic weight loss!!! You've done so well!!! Dorita