Decision 1

I quit my aerobics class. Yes, it was good for me. Yes, I met new people. Yes, it was convenient that it was at work. Yes, it was a really good deal. Bla-bla-bla... I dreaded it. In fact, I’ve decided I hate aerobics classes and will never take one again.

“But, you really do need to work out.”

Be active, yes, but why must it be work? Why must it be something I don’t enjoy? Did God really intend for us to maintain our bodies with torture?

Granted, I’m far from understanding God’s mind, but it seems incongruous to me that the Creator of flowers, butterflies, and chocolate would then require that we “institutionalize” our bodies so they function properly. It’s not as if we’re cars that require scheduled maintenance. I guess some people do require the scheduled part. It’s just in them to compartmentalize everything in life. I prefer a holistic approach. After all, everything is interwoven, right? I want to have fun and I don’t believe that play is only for children (took me a long time to learn that).

Our bodies were made for movement, but repetitions and sets? I’ve broken free from those and my body is no longer in pain. Instead, it feels more and more alive. My muscles are waking up and primed to be used in some fun activity. This doesn’t mean that I don’t push myself. I have begun to run – ok, it’s really jogging for 5 minutes, but I do go a little further each time. I’m inspired by Eric Liddell, “I believe that God made me for a purpose… but he also made me fast, and when I run, I feel His pleasure.”

I’m not fast - don't know if I ever will be, but I want to run and feel God’s pleasure! Looking for opportunities to be active is like looking for opportunities to show someone Christ’s love. In both, I fulfill my purpose and glorify my Father.