What is it about being in the group that makes the impossible possible? Can somebody please explain this to me? I have known for 10 years exactly how I need to eat to clear up my skin, clean out my brain, stop/slow all the cravings, and be nicer to my wife (yes, that’s related to food too.)
My life is filled with cookies and pastries, fat and salty foods. I use them to celebrate, when sad, stressed, as well as relaxed. Any excuse. I have been on and off cookies and bars (the kind you eat, not visit, I don’t go to bars anymore) – mostly on – and I know exactly what is going to happen in my body and brain if I binge on baked goods: a carb coma later that day and/or the next day. Even though I work 60-70 hours a week, and even though I have to drive 10 miles to get to a meeting, and even though I know exactly what I need to do, I can’t do this alone. I go to a weekly Suppers meeting because nature didn’t give me an off-button when I eat, and I can’t compensate for that alone. There’s strength in numbers, and I need that strength because I am a serial – I might say “cereal” – failure at cleaning up my diet. If I don’t have group support, I don’t change. Now my change is slow, but it is happening.
There’s one more thing I need to say. Women are better at sharing this stuff. I can’t believe what women talk about while they’re eating scrambled eggs. And this accountability thing we do at Suppers – ugh. Weekly reporting – eww. Setting intentions – sheesh.
Nevertheless, following their example, I have shared things about my medical situation and personal life that I would not say to a guy. Ever! And you know what? It helps. I’m a work in progress – let’s say slow motion progress – but at least the movement is forward and I am pleased with it. Healing really is a social experience.
Thanks, Gals!