Sphinctervision

Sphinctervision

 

Sphinctervision.  Optical Rectitus.  Call it what you will, but it is difficult to see the world in a positive way when your head is up your ass. One’s perspective from that vantage point can only be grim.  It is pretty hard to stop and smell the roses there, too. 

 

I have devoted this year to the pursuit of self-acceptance.  In the process of all the introspection and soul-searching that accompanies such an endeavor, I have somehow managed to put my mind in a dark and awful place that has blinded me to much of the beauty and wonder that is already a part of my life.  Over the past week, people here on OH and at my support group meetings have encouraged me to take a breather from my dogged efforts to find myself so that I can get my bearings and thus be better able to move forward again in a more peaceful, coherent state of mind.

 

I have been afraid to let up because I didn’t want to risk having to take even one faltering step back toward how I felt about myself before weight loss surgery.  Nevertheless, I took the advice I was given and I have tried to relax, tried to focus on just the positive aspects of my life for the past several days.  Lo and behold, I found that I didn’t have to retreat to the comfort of food nor did I spiral immediately toward depression.  On the contrary, my world looks (and smells) fresher than it has for months.  I can still see that there are challenges ahead of me in my career and at home, but the need to overcome those challenges doesn’t seem so immediate, so irrefutable, or so central to my day to day existence.  I am going to try to savor what is right in front of me for awhile and learn to just flow.

 

RP

 

 

It takes a smart and considered effort to take advice and support and put it to good use.  You have done that.  I applaud you, Rick, for your insights, your thoughtful response, and your willingness to share it with us.

Mary:

Thank you for your kind words and for telling me to take a breather in the first place.  Sage advice like what have given me is invaluable.

RP

Love, love, love the term "Sphinctervision" and fully intend to borrow it from you!   I am so glad you are going to take a bit of time to simply smell the roses, Rick.    I, too, have issues right now. . .no job, hubby's hours cut, 23 year old son moved back home after losing his job, 1 year old grandson (addict parents)  spending half his time with 57 year old grandma, and on and on.  The thing is. . .I can only effect change in myself so for now, I am just going to be healthier and not worry.   People usually do not starve, and I won't either.   The joys of playing on the floor with babies and pushing strollers around the block without huffing makes up for much of the "stuff" I can't control.  Enjoy your fresh new world and remember that the challenges will either keep or resolve themselves, with or without your worrying about them.

FLow on, new friend.

tuna

Tuna:

I thought people might be put off by the title of my post, but it did seem rather apt.  I wanted to thank you for being so supportive of me while you have struggles of your own.  People like you inspire me.

Rick

I am so glad to hear you have decided to take a breather.  It's kind of neat that, despite your decision to take a little break, it appears you continue to move forward on your journey toward the man you are destined to become.  I think learning  that stepping back did not cause you to slip back into using food for comfort is a huge lesson learned and a big step forward.  Sometimes there is more than one way to accomplish a goal but it is difficult to see that when we have been working so hard focusing on the route we think we should take to reach our goal.  I am happy for you that you are able to kick back and enjoy the ride a little bit and very glad you are able to find the support you need and deserve.

Tami:

Thank you once again for offering me support and encouragement.  I really appreciate it!

Rick