See Me... Being Inspired

This process of sharing my journey to TOTAL wellness has been a wonderful experience.  Yes, it has been scary at some moments because of my desire to be so transparent (remember the pictures?).  However, the process has also been rewarding.  

Since starting this blog, I have had so many people share their personal journeys and the things that have inspired them.  Several people have started their own blogs after reading my stories.  It's a great thing to know that what started for me as a quest to REMOVE MY MASK and show the world the REAL ME, has become a MOVEMENT FOR TOTAL HEALING.

I will use today's post to share some of the words of encouragement and inspiration that I have received from other people.  Believe me, this is not all.  I will periodically post different ones to share with you.  I hope that as you read each one, you will also find inspiration.

Just to let you know, I do not take these words lightly.  It is these very words that pushed me when I felt like giving up on the elliptical or that stopped me in my tracks when I wanted something sweet that I didn't need.  It is YOUR words that helped me to LOSE 16 POUNDS in 40 DAYS and it will be your words and prayers that will help me to continue.

Enjoy these moments of inspiration...

From Kelley Tucker (co-worker at Cone Health)

My new motto is…’Yes, I can…” and then fill in the blank.

Yes I can do that spin class.

Yes I can walk away from the desserts.

Yes I can learn to like my body.

From Sheila Goodman (godmother)

My prayer is that as you go through this journey that the shalom of God be ever present and that regardless of the hurt you may have endured in the past, that you realize that God loves you so much, that if you were the only person on the face of earth, He would have died solely for you!!!!  Be encouraged and continue fighting the good fight of faith.  "Fear not, LaWanda.  It is the father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom".

From Dawn Martin (co-worker at Cone Health)

I am SO proud of you and admire you so much, LaWanda. What an excellent post.  I also love what you said about making this journey for YOU, not to be "wife material" or to please others. That is the only way we all succeed, to make it about our own personal health and growth as a person. You go, girl. I support you all the way.

From Crystal Greenidge (co-worker at Cone Health)

Hey Girl,

Just wanted to let you know I am SO proud of you. When I transferred to pro-fee in 2008. I remember you not driving at that time and you were in school or in the process of going back. Look at GOD you went from a regular employee(LOL) like me, went to Urgent Care I believe, then became a supervisor, finished your degree and now look at you. Most people can not find a position within their degree-shortly after they graduate—but GOD’s favor over your life. I can imagine how hard it might have been, and can continue to be. I pray and meditate on this often---in spite of myself, shortcomings & issues at times…BUT GOD’s grace & mercy keeps me, especially those tender mercies that are renewed every morning. I just had to stop and give Honor to whom Honor is due!!!

From Dr. Vanessa Cunningham-Ingram (former professor at NC A&T State University)

Thank you for sharing about your captivity and your deliverance. There is power in prayer. I see you now, and look forward to your later.

Blessings!
Leading In Front To Empower Dreamers,
Vanessa