Can I really run if I have to?

I was reading an article this morning on The Woma about keeping physically fit for hunting. Dawn makes many valid points in her article for physical fitness in hunting, but one that summarizes why I have begun working on getting my body more physically fit. She states, "The more fit you are, the faster you can run from predators."

In her article, Dawn is talking about bears and other wildlife that you may encounter during hunting. But what about the wildlife that we may encounter in that parking lot after dark on our way to the car after work? What about the wildlife that may be walking down the alley when you take out the garbage? If I were to encounter a situation where I could run instead of having to draw my weapon and shoot someone, would I be physically able to?

It makes me angry when someone says, "Don't worry about it. Adrenaline will kick in and you can do anything." Okay. Sure, we know that adrenaline makes more things possible, I remember running a half mile home in minutes in junior high school to get my father when my sister got hit by a car even though it took me the whole hour in P.E. But I would rather KNOW that I can do it then to take the chance that I might or might not be able to do it when adrenaline kicks in. And what good would it do if I made it to the door and then passed the heck out? I must be able to protect myself and my children. 

If something happened and my 12 year old son was unconscious or injured, could I carry him? What?! Are you crazy? I don't carry the dog food. I am lazy, I am undisciplined and I would much rather have a Dr. Pepper than a glass of water!

So I have decided to change. I want to play with my grandchildren. I want to ride the horses for hours with my husband and my daughter. I want to be able to run if I have to. I want to feel good about me. Can I tell you something that some of you who know me won't believe? I struggle with insecurity. Before I found something I was good at...this. Writing and shooting. I was sure that I was pretty worthless. This new struggle with my weight as I've gotten older has added to that. The teasing of a child about the stains on her teeth, her glasses, and the fact that she was not one of the popular kids probably added to that, plus numerous other things growing up. I cannot; however, allow it all to keep me there. I am refusing to be a victim. Refusing to be a victim of my past, refusing to be a victim of low self-esteem, and refusing to be a victim of fat and laziness!! I am the only one who can change me. I am the only one who can make myself physically fit.

So ten days ago I started an exercise regimen. I am eating better (most of the time) and I am exercising. I met yesterday with a trainer and got a workout plan for the next month. I am going to cut the fat and build lean muscle. I am going to strengthen my arms as the virtuous woman should "She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms. (Proverbs 31:17)."

I have asked for and received some great ladies to hold me accountable and I am keeping up with everything on Anytime Health. I will post from time to time and let you all know how I am doing. Let me know if you would like to join this journey with me.

Have a wonderful day, friends!