The chosen people ...

Every once in a while someone comes into your life that makes such an impression on you that they become a vital component of who you are and who you can become.  I've been so fortunate this way. 

There was Lori, my nurse at Rockford Memorial after the car crash. She was the one who helped me through the hardest, darkest times.  We had so many heart to heart talks and her friendship still means so much to me. She gave me faith to believe that the crash wasn't where my story ended. 

Many years later, about half way through this go at Weight Watchers, we were informed we were getting yet another new leader. I was frustrated and said to a friend "if this turns out to be some leader who's all 'yeah! I lost 30 pounds and look at me now!' I am quitting."

I've told her the story, but I'll share. When she stood in front of us I saw her name tag and a very large number on it. Followed by the words "I lost."  I believe the number was about 220. I remember leaning over to my friend Megan and saying "well there goes all my f-ing excuses!"

Nothing beats God dropping proof right in your lap. I said I would quit if it was someone I couldn't relate to. Not only did I relate on a weight loss level, but since we have a similar sense of humor, I was thrilled. I considered her the cool kid, so getting to know her was a bonus. Now she's my friend who used to be my leader. Apparently God knows I needed a force like Jen!

Then came Diablo. Okay, Chris. And maybe he's not the love child of Satan and Hitler (maybe!). I've worked with some wonderful therapists and trainers (shout out to Kay) but this ... this isn't something I can explain except that God knew I needed Chris AND I was ready for his message. 

I've worked with Chris five times. Not even five full hours, but his effect on my life will last as if I was branded. 

Tonight we worked and talked. I have three sessions left and he's leaving soon, so it's become this crunch to show me enough stuff to keep me challenged and to help me reach my potential.  It was amazing to hear him talk about where he expects me to be in four years. 

Never once did the thought "four years?? Are you nuts??!!!??" go through my head. Instead I saw this vision he had for me and realized four years, hell yeah!

Going in tonight I told him about my week, my Independence Day, and the baggage I let go of. His response was to bounce around the room, arms raised like Rocky, with the biggest smile I've seen from him. 

He said he was so happy that my attitude caught up with the confidence he's seen in me. 

Me? Confident?  

Then he told me who he sees when he sees me. 

Then he told me what everyone else who watching me is thinking. I said I always say what's the worst thing they can say?  Look at the fat woman working out?

He said to hell with anyone who thinks negative. He said those who are athletic and do these effortless workouts are worthless as inspiration.   He said anyone who is afraid can watch me and see their own possibilities and anyone else who's busting their ass sees me as one of them. 

All these people ... and others... brought into my life exactly when I was open to receiving their messages.  

All of them strong people. 

Each of them so different. 

Each of them so priceless.