My Secret Struggle
No one would ever know my secret. And to be honest with you, I really felt like this was all normal because it's really all I ever knew. I felt very safe in my own cage, but I really wasn’t free at all.
FREEdom Story: Walking Towards Freedom
I entered a “mostly recovered” state, which I lived in for a long time. This involved extremely strict rules about food and exercise, and an obsession with performance. It may have been healthier than previous behavior, yet still not a healthy way to live. I certainly was not walking in freedom.
FREEdom Story: No Longer Alone
At 14, I’d spent time in an ED treatment facility. Hearing that my daughter was struggling felt like she was implying that I'd been doing something wrong; maybe she had gotten a message from me that her body needed to be different. What happened brought healing for me and those I met.
Why Don't I Look Like That?
This type of book would either come through the mail in a plain brown wrapper or be purchased at an adult bookshop. I know it was easy for me to find them in my parents' closet. I wanted to be beautiful and desirable like those picture book women. Why don't I look like that?
The Power of Community
I felt so misunderstood, so alone, and ashamed of my struggles. Nobody in my world felt the intensity of my struggle. Why doesn't anyone "get" me?!
Going Back To School While In ED Recovery
Maybe you spent the summer working hard towards recovery. Perhaps you wanted to, but it didn’t happen. Or possibly the enemy is trying to sneak in and convince you that you're not enough. Keep these three reminders in mind as you return to school and life.
From "Gym" to "Spiritual Warfare Training Ground"
Going back to the gym. I was lost in thoughts of what that might look like; I was excited, yet at times I imagined scenes of people staring at me and talking about me. When I laid it at Jesus' feet, He showed me how important this decision would be, both physically and spiritually.
FREEdom Story: "Freedom from Shame"
Guest blogger Marissa shares her FREEdom story, of the transformation she's found moving from shame to victory over her body image challenges, with Jesus alongside her. Are YOU ready to step out of the shame and into the freedom of full recovery?
Food Rules and To-Do Lists
With food rules and to-do lists, you become obligated to things that don't really matter or don't get you where you want (or need) to go. Once you realize this, your life (and attitude) can change.
Bodies Never Lose Their Wisdom
A new mom's commentary about diet culture. "I already find myself needing to defend a body's wisdom in a child who was not even a year old."
Being Seen & Known
We all want to be seen and heard; to make friends, have lengthy conversations and get to know each other; to love well, care deeply, and be known. Only One truly knows us.
What Occupies Your Thoughts?
What would occupy your thoughts if you didn't think about food (or body image)? Today's blog might surprise you.
The Gift of Enjoyment
This journey of recovery is full of hills and valleys. It's one step forward and two steps back repeatedly. In this emotional roller coaster where we long to be free, it is so easy to lose sight of our progress. Let's acknowledge the victories!