Days 17-20: Insights

 This weekend, I went to a restaurant and a café, and realized how I have isolated myself thus far. I think it’s a structure thing—I expect to do better in adhering to the fast if I regulate where I go. At the café, almost everything was sugary, from the mochas and matchas to the pastries. 

I had resigned myself that there was nothing edible for me there, which was fine. I had a sugar-free mint or gum instead. I browsed the books and gifts, then sat at a table with my teenage cousin while she sipped her tall, sugary matcha. Iwas mindful and in the moment. Her mother has been deployed to Afghanistan, so this was special to spend time with her. On the way out, I noticed on the counter, a small bowl with a couple cutie oranges and a Granny Smith apple. The sign said, "Free, take one." I grabbed the fat green apple with a small blemish on it. I've never cared for these sour apples in the past, but on this night, I savored its natural, tarty sweetness! 

I am realizing more and more on this fast that refined, processed sugar is everywhere. A trip to the grocery store can take you to sensory overload if you’re not careful, with all of the bright, colorful displays,  andcatch phrases and smells. I went after my workout this morning and at the checkout, a 7-year-old boy had his own grocery bag. Inside I could see a can of soda and some candy that his mom gave him to appease him. And on the way home, I caught a glance of a man walk out of the local creamery eating an ice cream cone. It was only 10:30 a.m.

I can't help but wonder about the masses of people who inhale and consume sugar on a daily basis. People who have sugar in various forms morning, noon and night, then wonder why their bodies are  out of whack. 

And let me be clear: Not too long ago -- less than 40 days ago-- I was one of them.

When we cut added sugar from our daily food intake, it can lead to healthier weight; lower cholesterol (triglycerides); lower risk of heart disease; better nutrition; healthier teeth; and lowers our risk of being diagnosed with diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and liver disease. (WebMD)

I’m not out of the woods, but I do consider myself a recovering sugar addict. 

I still have sweet cravings and occasionally want to impulsively grab sugary “treats.” 

But I remember what I’m doing and why, and the fact that I’m already reaping the benefits of this structure in my life. All glory to the Lord, who helps me to endure the cravings, and/or find healthier alternatives.

I’m 20 days in, and I know it is by His grace, mercy and strength that I am making progress. 

I feel better. My skin looks better. My joints are night and day--prior to this, I considered seeing a doctor because the pain was increasing, particularly in my ankles. Sugar is inflammatory; therefore, omitting it from my nutrition, I simply don’t ache much, and I have more energy. 

I love me again. I wake up feeling more confident, instead of feeling guilt and shame for what I indulged in the day prior. I know this for sure: Each day that I choose to deny processed, refined sugar increases my quality of life. And that is truly worth savoring. 

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I’m grateful for this experience! I continue to seek Your strength and support. Forgive me for self-harm with food and overindulgence. Help others to give this plan a chance. May I continue this victoriously. In the name of Jesus, Amen. 

x

Day 16: I Can't Do This Alone

 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. I Peter 5:10

Again I say, I am grateful for what the Lord is doing in this time of fasting from refined/processed sugar. 

Before this, I knew I needed to fast. At one point years ago, I fasted once a week and noticed I would have such peace and clarity on those days. 

And He has not disappointed in those areas with this fast. 

But I am learning that to get the most out of this, you cannot and must not think you can do this in your own strength. We must turn to Him, seek Him, pray to Him. Humbly ask our Heavenly Father to help us. Help us to make better, nutritional choices; help us to ride the craving waves; help us to focus on Him more.  

And He is faithful to listen and to answer. I really need this, and am grateful. I was self-medicating with sugar and starches, my drug of choice. I was lethargic, joints were aching more, I didn't walk--I lumbered. I had no idea how to get more control. 

Desperate circumstances require desperate measures--don't remember who said that, but I saw it in a movie once. And I desperately want to live and have quality of life. So this fast is a tool to help me see the role food has had in my life; to draw closer to my Heavenly Daddy; and to value myself more. I am empowered and feeling really good these days. Forging on, in Jesus name!

Prayer: Precious Father, thank You for knowing what we need, when we need it. Thank You for using this fast from sugar as a tool for re-setting and re-aligning us. We are never too far gone, for you are always within reach, IF we let you, IF we seek You, IF we say yes to your will and your way. We are not perfect and thank You that you don't require perfection. One step at a time. Praise Your Holy Name! In the name of Jesus, Amen.