Fit Fare

Taking care of myself in a more healthful way has evolved in baby steps. A few small changes here and a few small changes there have developed into a new, slimmer, better feeling, more healthful me! The changes were a challenge at first. But they became less and less of a challenge as I held tight to my conviction that this is what I should do to take better care of my body.

Some of the changes seemed expensive in the beginning. For instance, buying lots of fresh fruits and veggies does raise the grocery bill. At first, it seemed crazy to spend all that money on healthy foods when junk foods (or ready to eat foods) were so much cheaper, faster and, at the time, more satisfying. But as my body became accustomed to the new, healthier fare, I noticed I ate less and still felt full and satisfied. So, it kind of evened itself out. Not bad! I just had to hang on to the change until it became a part of who I am.

The same logic applies to taking care of the planet Earth. Sometimes changes seem expensive, but in the long run their benefits outweigh the initial expense. For example, I decided to stop buying so much bottled water. I chose a water filter pitcher, replacement filters, and a nice, washable water bottle for everyone in the family. Then, I headed to the check out. Yikes, the price seemed excessive. But after several months of not buying cases and cases of bottled water, the price wasn’t so bad. In fact, I’ve probably saved money in the long run.

Disposable plates were the same thing. We live a fast paced life. Paper plates seem like an easy out for rushed times — easy cleanup, little mess. But, as my family has become acclimated to healthier foods, I’ve embraced the fact that we eat with our eyes first. That means the food should be pretty and hold our interest visually before we ever take a bite. Part of pretty presentation is using nice dishes that compliment the dish. Serving my healthful, colorful food is much more pleasing to the eye when it’s served on a beautiful plate. It only takes a moment to wash up four plates for my family after dinner. Better yet, it saves four plates from going into the trash can and out to the land fill.

The fact is that our bodies won’t last forever. I will grow old and eventually die. But I’ve decided that while I’m alive, I want to feel as good as I can so I can serve others the best way I can. Same for the Earth. Isaiah 51:6 says “Lift up your eyes to the sky, then look to the earth beneath; for the sky will vanish like smoke, and the earth will wear out like a garment, and its inhabitants will die in like manner, but my salvation shall be forever, and my righteousness shall not wane.” I guess my point is that it’s all eventually going to wear out regardless of what we do, but that shouldn’t stop us for doing all we can to preserve the gifts God gave us with the Earth and our bodies.

So, to celebrate Earth Day, what baby steps are you going to take?