I think I have talked about it enough that it is common knowledge that I go to Wal Mart in the mornings before work and get 2 miles of walking in. As you can imagine, I see a lot of people wile walking around the store. I have to admit, a great deal of those people are overweight, some are obese like me. There is one gentleman I see in particular on a fairly regular basis. I am pretty sure he works there, but is off and just bs'ing around the store. So I cannot tell how old he is for sure but I would guess early 40's, maybe mid to late 40's. Anyway, he reminds me of me, he is social, jovial typically good spirited. He also reminds me of me in that he has the affliction of having all his weight being carried in his belly. I know I am not skinny now, but I also know that he is probably as close to representative of what I was 63 pounds ago. He is not one of the many regulars I talk to all the time now. I kinda wish he was though. I want him to stop me, talk to me, and start asking questions. I want to use my salesman's skills to pump him up about the idea of getting on the road to weight loss. Since I know from experience that if I stopped and started that conversation, it would likely be met with polite stonewalling. I would have done it. So then I start thinking. Wouldn't it be neat if you were able to be like Jesus with his healing touch? If you could put your hands on one of those people and just let what you have inside you flow to them. Let them tap into your resolve, let them learn what you have learned, let them get one step closer to a life that is not haunted by obesity, inability to do those things everyone does around you. It would be so cool if that was possible.
Lately, I have been back to day dreaming about going back to Silver Dollar City in April or whenever they open the rides up and being able to confidently get in each line for each ride with zero apprehension about fitting in the ride!! In fact, I have added a day dream of a day at Six Flags doing the same thing! I especially want to spend as much time as possible riding Superman, and Batman and Mr. Freeze and Titan.... heck I guess all the rides at Six Flags! I bet I could fit them all now, but I want to be even thinner than now before I try. In fact, that is about the time I hope to be down to 197 or possibly lower. How cool would that be?
Your blog reaches out and touches people everyday by motivating and teaching the things that you have learned. So, you ARE making a difference :)
ReplyDeleteThat would be cool Shane. You will really enjoy the theme parks next time you visit them.
ReplyDeleteBTW, I agree with Jennifer, your blog is reaching people and making a difference. You never know when the man may come up and give you the right opportunity to motivate him.
I love your six flags goal! And you know what else is cool? Fitting comfortably in any booth in any restaurant...anytime, anywhere!! And in the airplane. Yeah, that too!
ReplyDeleteAnd I also know what you mean about wanting to help that guy. Steve is right...watch for the opportunity and it just may present itself. ;-)
Shane I think you have the BEST and MOST POSITIVE attitude about this journey that I have ever seen. You are definitely an inspiration to myself and others. I read alot of blogs but I have never found anyone to be as excited about the journey as you are. I can feel your excitement in reading your words. And I can tell how much you want to pass on your excitement and help others. I too have found that I want to share my experience with others who may need help. But I also remember that when my mind wasn't in it, I didn't want anyone's advice and wouldn't have accepted it or taken it for the friendly way it was meant. So, for now I think you are right to give him his space. Maybe he will be motivated on his own, or by seeing you walking. Maybe like Steve said, he may reach out to you. Just know that you are helping so many others with your positive outlook and your words of inspiration. Thank You!
ReplyDeleteHere's what you do with the guy that works at the store:
ReplyDelete"Excuse me sir. Can you show me where you keep your free weights? I'm looking at different kinds for Christmas. Thanks! [as you walk to the section] Hey, you know, you look familiar. I come in on mornings to do a couple of indoor walking laps for exercise, and I notice a few regular people here like you. My name is Shane, what's yours? How long have you been working here?"
There's nothing like an introduction to break the ice.
Once you learn his name and you say hello to him over the next few weeks, he'll be all yours.
I am with Christine on this one, too, Shane. You are a social guy-start with the intro and you are on your way home. Yes, you will easily be able to fit in and on every ride from now on in any amusement park you go to! Terrific accomplishment to do what you not too many months ago could not.
ReplyDelete