My mission and hope

Speaking of hopes and dreams (more goals), I wanted to tell you my mission statement in the ministry of Food Addicts Full of Faith, which goes along with the 12th step--Having had a spiritual awakening as a result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to others, and to practice these principles in all our affairs.

"Food Addicts Full of Faith exists to touch the hearts, minds and souls of compulsive overeaters and food addicts everywhere with confident expectation of ongoing recovery through faith and hope in Jesus."

When I walked into the 12-step rooms for compulsive overeaters and food addicts, I was awestruck when I heard that it was possible to be free from overeating and obsession for more than a season. There were women who had been free and clean (without sugar and flour on a weighed and measured food plan) for years. I could not fathom that idea for me, but I became willing to do what they did for one day. Just one day...

One day turned into two days, a week, a month, a year and then years. In a flash of an eye, I lost my weight as I focused on the 12-steps. That still seems amazing even to me...and I was there! I heard people say "If you focus on recovery, you'll lose the weight, but if you focus on the weight, you'll lose recovery." That became a true statement for me, too.

Recovery became my goal...and it wasn't long before I got on my soap box and started sharing it with others. I am still on a soap box today although I am bringing another aspect to the table--God is the answer; what's the question?

I am responsible to be a testimony of God's love and grace, to be "salt and light" to the world, striving to walk the walk and talk the talk. I started practicing the principle, "Preach always and if necessary use words."

My morning devotions started with the Third-Step Prayer in the Big Book: "...take away my difficulties, so that victory over them may bear witness to others..." as I walked through many trials and tribulations. In time and through experience, I added The Prayer of Jabez. "God bless me indeed, increase my boundaries and keep me from harm."

Today, I love who I am becoming as a result of following the example that Jesus laid out in His Word. I hope and pray that people might see His love and grace in my eyes and hear His love through my words. My mission and purpose is to glorify God and help and encourage others.

Lord, make my mission statement come alive! Make it sing and dance in the hearts of sick and suffering food addicts from coast to coast. There is so much hope in trusting and knowing You. You are worthy to be praised! To God be the glory. I love You, Lord Jesus.