Appreciating the Positive in Our Lives....

Hi Ladies. I really have struggled with maintaining a rational, positive outlook at times in my life. It seemed to be very related to the eating disorder -- sort of an overall negative outlook on life. I have a long way to go, but learning to appreciate the positive things in my life has added to it's quality and the richness of my experience...Any thoughts on this?


Amanda - Thanks for keeping us posted on your progress. We miss you. College is such a big change...so much independence -- so quickly. It is a lot to process, not to mention all the hard work, needed time management, etc...It is okay to feel overwhelmed by it -- I think a lot of college freshman do--and venting here is a great outlet for growth. One of our dearly loved group members recently said that she is trying to say one positive thing for every negative thing that she says....I was really inspired by that...it seems that a big part of eating disorder recovery is becoming more aware of the positives in our lives and focusing on that more than the negative....easier said than done, I know....I am working on this skill though, and trying to see more of the positives in my life....the payoff is I feel better and life is more tolerable, even pretty darn good at times.....want to pal up with this group member and me and try this out with us. It is simple -- we say one positive thing for every negative thing.....??? Anyone else game to try this out?

Jamie- You are so supportive and kind spirited in the way you relate to others. I watch you and listen to you in group and am amazed at the depth of your sensitivity toward others. Also, you are so soothing and encouraging and accepting when others express their pain....what a lovely, lovely, lovely soul you have!

Celia- You have obviously done a lot of hard work to have the recovery that you have! It is so exciting and encouraging to see! You said " I hate being a burden. The benefits of actually telling someone are worth the risk though. I think a huge part of recovery is being vulnerable with someone we trust, meaning letting out the pain and darkness that is in us. I think a person has to be emotionally mature and stable to be able to listen"...........Wow, that is beautifully said, and I agree entirely!! Being heard for who we actually are, accepted for who we actually are and even loved for that, worts and all, is so healing....so healing that it is worth the risk to lower that mask with safe people and allow them to see who we really are....

Jeanette - I hope that you are continuing to take care of yourself and resting. Have you broken out those new dishes yet? :) It was nice to have you back in group last Wed. night....I have missed you and your wealth of experience and insight that adds so much to the group.

Warmly,

Jacquelyn

Risks of Sharing Ourselves with others....

Hi. I am wondering what you all consider to be the benefits of sharing your thoughts and feelings with others? What are the drawbacks? How do you determine if another person is emotionally safe to share more personal aspects of your inner life with? What about trusting others to keep your confidences? What if they they "think less of you" because you shared aspects of yourself that expose your humaness and/or needs?

I am impressed with the honesty and genuine sharing that has gone on in the Eating Disorder Hope support groups. It takes courage to be vulnerable to others, to share what is troubling us and let it out....it feels good to unburden ourselves and to experience loving acceptance of us and our unique perspective on life....

What do you all think? Any and all visitors are welcome to comment.

Warmly,

Jacquelyn
Founder of Eating Disorder Hope