Stephen_C, Age 53, 7DW Level 1, Introduction

[Stephen_C]

Hello Fellow Cleansers,

My name is Stephen and I live and work in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. I finished my first formal cleans at the beginning of Aug.

I've been in the roofing industry for the last 28 years and it has taken its toll on me mentally and physically. I am at a point in my life where I need to move on to some different work for my peace and physical well being, and this is something I have been struggling with for quiet a few years.

When I found this site and started my formal cleanse I had been working on getting my weight back under control and lost about 29lbs. After I had finished my pre cleanse and then the 7 DW Fast, I dropped another 15lbs. It was the clearest and highest I had felt in probably in 20 years! Although I have gained about 19lbs. back I am still feeling pretty good and I am working on getting back onto the Path again. I am amazed at how fast you can change your physical health by either keeping the focus on or off of yourself. I guess it's like Jos-hua said in one of his posts, it is all about moderation, which I have had a hard time controlling in my life. I feel at times it's either all or nothing.

I also like to mention I have been alcohol and substance free for the last 3 and half years and a total of 12 out of the last 18. As you can see the struggle continues in all aspects. Although I have been able to stay alcohol and substance free on my own, I do feel I need the support from the HPS community to stay on the Path in relationship to good eating and health habits. There is so much to learn from each other.

Part of my health issues have to do directly with my work. There is much stress and back related problems in ths line of work I have chosen, and it is very obvious to me that I need to get out of it, but I guess in a way, I am addicted to the financial aspect it. You would think getting a handle on some of my health issues I would be able to deal and move on with this one.

Although I haven't been quite as aware for the last couple of months as I was before, during, and after my first cleanse, I do know what needs to be done to continue to get back on natures Path. I believe by continuing with the HPS community and being an active particapate things will lend itself to opening up and answering some the needs and concerns I have.

God Bless, and Peace,

Stephen_C

[Claudette_P]

Dear Stephen:

Welcome back, you know you are in the right place, right? As a newcomer to this community, I to, appreciate the support group aspect (which is also vital to the 12-step programs), with which success is much more easily achieved. One person sharing with another their experience, strength, and hope....

You have shared very honestly and sincerely, and it will be nice to hear more, as you move ahead.

Best wishes,
Claudette

[Kay_M]

Welcome to the support group. I find the posting to be very significant in keeping me focused. I also find we all have our own challenges and knowing you're not alone and there is interest & support for what I am experiencing is truly been rewarding. May you find satisfaction, support and success with your healing work. Love to you, Kay M

[David_T]

Stephen,

What is it that you have always dreamed of doing? How will it feel when you are doing that everyday?

Don't worry so much about getting back on the path. It puts too much energy on the notion that you were off it. Instead, why not consider that you choose the path, you have been walking it...and you picked a bench and where simply taking a rest before continuing along. This path is your life and it isn't a race.

I also suggest that you don't see so much struggle in your life. You are defining yourself as "one who struggles" and that will make all things more difficult. You are one which has overcome much. You have been tempered by life and have continued along.

Don't look on your life past and future as a fight. You can be something else. Its your choice.

I look forward to you sharing your experinces.

Love and light,

David_T