Let me just say...I LOVE seeing "fat" and "out of shape" people, both men and women, out there, busting their butts, now that the warm weather is here! I LOVE seeing them huff and puff, doing their slow jog down the street, peddling their bikes, and looking like they are going to pass out on the side of the road, and it isn't for the reason you may think. It's because of their drive, their push, their "frankly, I don't give a damn."
They are out there doing what they need to do, and I'm sure they feel ridiculous, when I honestly think they should feel bad-ass. What they don't realize, is that they are being inspirational. They are being a driving force to others, they are showing their strength, even if they feel weak.
How do I know this...because I was there once. I wasn't in great shape when I started, I wasn't skinny, but I'm where I am now, because I started...I put myself out there just like them, and I know I have surprised and inspired some in the process. I'm not laughing at these awesome people, in any way, shape, or form, I am clapping for them, I am cheering them on, and I am acknowledging the fact, that they are taking control of their lives, their health, their emotions. They aren't out looking like they are trying to be something that they aren't..they are out BECOMING something they already are inside, but what they want to see on the outside as well. THEY are the inspirations, THEY are the "Hope", THEY are the "Screw you, I got this."
How do I know this...because I was there once. I wasn't in great shape when I started, I wasn't skinny, but I'm where I am now, because I started...I put myself out there just like them, and I know I have surprised and inspired some in the process. I'm not laughing at these awesome people, in any way, shape, or form, I am clapping for them, I am cheering them on, and I am acknowledging the fact, that they are taking control of their lives, their health, their emotions. They aren't out looking like they are trying to be something that they aren't..they are out BECOMING something they already are inside, but what they want to see on the outside as well. THEY are the inspirations, THEY are the "Hope", THEY are the "Screw you, I got this."
They are out doing, what they need to do, despite the stuck ups, despite the stares, and rude remarks. Have respect for those, that are changing themselves, for THEMSELVES. They are doing an amazing thing, and they aren't hiding it. These aren't people that are out there in workout gear, when they don't actually workout. They aren't claiming falsehoods to be something/one that they aren't, and ANYONE who has respect for fitness, health, and athletics, wouldn't look down on anyone trying to embrace that in their life. They wouldn't look out their car window in disgust, they wouldn't cringe at the tight workout gear...that may show more bulge then curve, and they certainly wouldn't say anything to damage their drive and spirit. They support, they love, they help, they encourage, and they help drive those, that want to be driven...a lot of times, because they started where these beauties are right now...at the beginning.
It takes a lot to get out there and strut your stuff, during your transformation, especially when so many are out being the bullies, of the gym...bike path...streets....life. That's right folks, even adults get picked on. It doesn't just stop once schools out, and it still hurts when your older.
But, for as many snobs and bad-mouthers that there may be, there are a lot of supporters, and also, a lot of those who need to be inspired and supported, by those of us, who are on the same journey. So, please, be the change, be the inspiration, be the greater good. We are always fighting a battle, and in battle, we need supporting troops, hope, & ambition. Please, be that for someone else, and let them be that for you.
But, for as many snobs and bad-mouthers that there may be, there are a lot of supporters, and also, a lot of those who need to be inspired and supported, by those of us, who are on the same journey. So, please, be the change, be the inspiration, be the greater good. We are always fighting a battle, and in battle, we need supporting troops, hope, & ambition. Please, be that for someone else, and let them be that for you.
You don't look ridiculous, you don't look out of place. You look like a fighter, and I guarantee that as you huff past those people in their cars, you are getting high-fived, and you are getting smiles of love and encouragement, and that YOU have inspired AT LEAST one person, by putting yourself out there. Congratulations, you're winning! Internet HIGH FIVE!
