First Blank Page

THAT'S A Resolution!!!

Reflection

“For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he...” Proverbs 23:7 Mirror, Mirror. We’re now at that reflective time of year, aren’t we? The holiday season makes us more introspective about the state of our lives. And New Year’s is the ultimate in that introspection. As one year comes to a close and another one begins, we can find ourselves wondering, “Am I any different/better now than I was a year ago? Will I be any different/better in the new year?” Thus, the New Year’s resolutions. Feel free to groan right here. Ah, yes, the ever hopeful promise/solution of the resolution. We look at ourselves with discontent, determining we have to change who we are because it isn’t good enough in some way. We see ourselves through the looking glass of subpar and believe that if/when we change, life will feel better for us in some way. And that’s not to discount making healthy choices and living in nondestructive ways. But let’s not confuse those actions with idolizing and banking on the resolution as a better, more relevant answer than God is in our lives. It isn’t and will never be. “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” Proverbs 4:23 New Year’s Eve, with all of its tricky resolution traps, can leave us feeling like we’re walking through a minefield of funhouse mirrors. Only the reflection is never fun and can cut us with its jagged shards. But God wants different things for us. He wants us to feel hope, not dread, encouragement, not despair. I know; it’s a tall order, isn’t it? But, perhaps, we just need a small shift in our thinking. What if we spent some time viewing God’s resolution for us as more powerful, hopeful and lasting than our own? What if we spent time focusing on the victory of the Jeremiah 29:11 resolution, for example, instead of looking at the failure of our own imperfect and puny resolutions? “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” What if we entertained the reality that God is helping us, no matter what time of year it is? “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go: I will guide you with My eye.” Psalm 32:8 “Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, This is the way, walk in it, whenever you turn to the right hand, and whenever turn to the left.’” Isaiah 30:21 What if we resolved to begin to focus, however imperfectly, on the Promise of God’s Word and desire to love and bless us, even in spite of ourselves and any broken resolutions? “Since you were precious in my sight… I have loved you…” Isaiah 43:4 >“For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38-39 “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8 “The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.” Jeremiah 31:3 What if we changed the focus of our reflection from reflecting on ourselves to reflecting on God in us, “the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27)? What would THAT be like? Let’s endeavor, as imperfectly as it may be, to approach not only the new year that way, but also God and our very selves that way as well!!! Happy New Year; happy 2013 and beyond!!! Copyright © 2012 by Sheryle Cruse

Jump Into That Fishbowl!!!!

In Time...

C'Mon, We all need work!

Where Are You In the Spiral?

Great Things Waiting...

Change Takes Time

Not a residence!

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11

Perception/Reaction

“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” Proverbs 4:23

Anchor called too fat for TV is now international role model

Anchor called too fat for TV is now international role model

Perfectly Okay

Imperfect Called

All That You Are

Whatever happened this year...

Great Things Regardless...

Ten Steps To Positive Body Image

Compiled by Margo Maine, Ph. D. ________________________________________ One list can not automatically tell you how to turn negative body thoughts into positive body image, but it can help you think about new ways of looking more healthfully and happily at yourself and your body. The more you do that, the more likely you are to feel good about who you are and the body you naturally have. 1. Appreciate all that your body can do. Every day your body carries you closer to your dreams. Celebrate all of the amazing things your body does for you --running, dancing, breathing, laughing, dreaming, etc. 2. Keep a top-10 list of things you like about yourself -- things that aren't related to how much you weigh or what you look like. Read your list often. Add to it as you become aware of more things to like about you. 3. Remind yourself that "true beauty" is not simply skin-deep. When you feel good about yourself and who you are, you carry yourself with a sense of confidence, self-acceptance, and openness that makes you beautiful regardless of whether you physically look like a supermodel. Beauty is a state of mind, not a state of your body. 4. Look at yourself as a whole person. When you see yourself in a mirror or in your mind, choose not to focus on specific body parts. See yourself as you want others to see you -- as a whole person. 5. Surround yourself with positive people. It is easier to feel good about yourself and your body when you are around others who are supportive and who recognize the importance of liking yourself just as you naturally are. 6. Shut down those voices in your head that tell you your body is not "right" or that you are a "bad" person. You can overpower those negative thoughts with positive ones. The next time you start to tear yourself down, build yourself back up with a few quick affirmations that work for you. 7. Wear clothes that are comfortable and that make you feel good about your body. Work with your body, not against it. 8. Become a critical viewer of social and media messages. Pay attention to images, slogans, or attitudes that make you feel bad about yourself or your body. Protest these messages: write a letter to the advertiser or talk back to the image or message. 9. Do something nice for yourself -- something that lets your body know you appreciate it. Take a bubble bath, make time for a nap, find a peaceful place outside to relax. 10. Use the time and energy that you might have spent worrying about food, calories, and your weight to do something to help others. Sometimes reaching out to other people can help you feel better about yourself and can make a positive change in our world. Reprinted with permission from the National Eating Disorders Association. For more information: www.NationalEatingDisorders.org.

Kindsight...

Yes, you can!!!

Aftermath

“Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23

Ugh! Does that word describe you today? Or is it more like post- Christmas regret? A hangover? Self-loathing? Are you feeling great today or bleh instead?

This holiday season has the overindulgence factor attached to it. Regardless of how you did on Christmas, there is always a new start. Never feel condemned and hopeless. God is in the “day by day business,” not the “or else smiting business” when it comes to His love for you. “For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.” 2 Corinthians 4:16 And that reality never hinges upon our imperfect and overindulging natures. He just loves us, constantly and lavishly. Whatever you feel today, please remember renewal is God’s speciality in His love for you! Be made new today! Copyright © 2012 by Sheryle Cruse

Emmanuel

“…and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.” Matthew 1:23

God bless us all on this glorious Christmas Day!!!

God bless your Christmas!!!

Don't knock the "Happy Birthday" song; Jesus is the Reason!!!!

Surviving the Holidays: A Primer For Family and Friends of Those Struggling With an Eating Disorder (Worth Repeating)

We are coming up on the holidays. For families this is a time meant for joy, festivities and socializing. These are times meant for us to draw closer together and to re-affirm what it is to be a family, a time to catch up on what has been going on and share with one another the prospects for the New Year. To the individual suffering from an eating disorder, or in the throes of recovery, these occasions can be overwhelming and threatening. We want to be helpful and supportive, but nothing seems to come out right. What do we say? How can we let them know that we care and are there for them, without being so awkward about it? Those patients who are struggling are often at a loss during the holidays. They, too, have expectations for the holidays; and, oftentimes being perfectionists, they don’t want to let down their loved ones who are worried about them. Not only do they have to deal with the normal stresses of the holidays, they worry that they will fail—either their families by engaging in their eating disorder; or, conversely, their eating disorder by losing control and gaining weight. Surely, everyone is looking at them, wondering if they are eating enough, eating the right things, getting enough rest. Surely, everyone knows that they just got out of treatment and are talking about them. They smile and put on a brave face. They wonder if people are avoiding talking to them. Maybe it’s for the best. Some family members ask innocuously: “How are you doing?” Well, they think, before they respond with an obligatory, “Fine, thanks,” they feel…pretty much like a failure. Some of them have had to drop out of school, leave jobs, see their friends move on with their lives as they stay stuck. What happened to the person who was an honor student, track star, the one voted most likely to success? You’re at home with your parents? That’s great. Maybe you can use this time to get closer together. There’s always a silver lining to our struggles. Even worse: “You’re looking really good. You look…healthy.” Great, they think, I look fat. This dress is making me look fat. My face is all puffy. Everyone is talking about how fat I am. Maybe I need to stop eating right now. No wonder they sometimes hide in corners, avoiding eye contact. Their body language is closed, forbidding. Don’t talk to me. Don’t tell me that things will get better. Don’t ask me how I’m doing or if I’m going back to school or if I’d done with treatment. Don’t ask me anything. The best approach is not to ignore the eating disorder individual’s presence, but to approach them with kindness and sensitivity. Let them know you are glad to see them. Instead of commenting on their clothing; praise their shoes, jewelry or hairstyle if appropriate. Did they have a hand in decorating the tree or preparing a dish? Maybe you have a happy memory that you want to share with them to let them know that they are an important part of your life. Maybe you want to share something interesting that happen to you to help take the perceived focus off of them. To engage in conversation is important and a positive optimistic twist such as talking about their pets, new people in their lives, or television shows will go a long way to make the holidays brighter. The holidays are, ideally, a time to connect—a time to let each one of us know that we are not alone, that we are part of something greater than ourselves, that we are part of a family. You can count on us. We’ll be there for you. Call 1-800-445-1900 or visit us at www.remudaranch.com. For more information, please call 1-800-445-1900 or visit www.remudaranch.com

There's genius to you- as you!

Just a little mirth...

Character Training

Come To Jesus

Alright, yes, I have too much time on my hands and I take too many photos of our cats, Gracie and Glory. Here is no different. But they are so adorable, checking out the Baby Jesus.

Really? Could you not seize such a photo-op yourself? Anyway, these photos of our cats checking out the Baby Jesus, even nibbling on Him, re-reminded me of the direct, innocent and childlike way we are to approach Jesus and this time of year.

“But Jesus called them unto him, and said, ‘Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.’” Luke 18:16-17 He will not reject us if we come to Him; we told us so: “All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37 The phrase, “come to Jesus” is often used in our popular culture. It describes a serious intervention/discussion we need to have one another. But how often do you and I really think about the true meaning of that expression? Let’s truly embrace the “come to Jesus” reality, Baby Jesus or otherwise. After all, as so often quoted, “Jesus is the reason for the season.” God bless you and your family this wonderful Christmas season! Copyright © 2012 by Sheryle Cruse

Tradition

I love this nativity Christmas pageant scene from the 1945 classic film, “The Bells of St. Mary’s.”

Aside from the inherent cuteness of the small children, the simplicity of the children’s approach hits such a relevant chord. The famous scene involves the children, offering a rehearsal glimpse of their Christmas pageant to the characters of Father O’Malley and Sister Mary Benedict, played by Bing Crosby and Ingrid Bergman. Being the kids they are, focus and consistency are not exactly at the top of their priority list. They put their own ever changing spin on the telling of Jesus’ birth. It’s adorable. If you have a chance to catch the film, I highly recommend it. And, in all of their “adaptation,” the children end the pageant, not by singing a traditional Christmas carol like “Away in a Manger” or “Silent Night,” but instead, by employing their rendition of the “Happy Birthday” song, to, of course, the Baby Jesus. Like I said, it’s adorable and if you get an opportunity to watch the film, I think it’ll amuse and warm your heart. And watching the movie again, this Christmas season, the “happy birthday” song element brought the main point home: it’s about Jesus; never mind the traditional fuss of what’s always been done before. Christmas is big on the tradition issue, isn’t it? Look at the family, cultural, church and food traditions. There are certain things we only do in particular ways this time of year. Putting up and decorating a Christmas tree, making eggnog and gingerbread houses, singing Christmas carols and sending Christmas cards are all a part of these yearly traditions. Your family may have its own unique variations on those things. Yes, traditions can be wonderful. They represent familiarity and consistency. However, when we shift to from the festive side of tradition and turn it into an oppressive, “must do list,” then the festivity goes completely out the window, doesn’t it? And that’s where stress, arguments, depression and disappointment comes in. You and I may be so fixated on singing a traditional Christmas carol, we completely lose sight of power of the “Happy Birthday Song.” Traditions were never meant to be oppressive, “do or die” rules. The definition of tradition is as follows: “a long-established action or pattern of behavior in a community or group of people, often one that has been handed down from generation to generation.” However, if we make that tradition an oppressive rule, don’t we then choose to ignore the reason for Christmas? It’s about Jesus, not traditions and certainly not about rules. Anyone here ever hear of the word grace? Don’t we choose to override/cancel God’s love and very embodiment of grace and a love gift in the Person of Jesus? How’s that for a” fa- la- la- la- la” approach to the holiday season? “Thus you nullify the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And you do many things like that." Mark 7:13 I mention this not to condemn, but to remind myself, just as much as anyone else out there; it’s hard not to get caught up in all of the “must do” stuff of the holidays. And it’s even more challenging for those of us in recovery from addictions, disorders and compulsions. Those of us driven by disordered eating, in particular, tend to have track records all about perfection, maintaining order, routine, food and exercise rituals. The holiday season can, indeed, feel especially vexing to us. But again, we need to keep the main thing the main thing: Jesus. It’s not tradition which will ever be our answer or our safety; it is Jesus. If we stop fighting that, we can release ourselves from that unnecessary torment and pressure; we can let God be God, Jesus be the Reason for the season. And we can stop ruining the whole holiday season for ourselves. Let’s stop doing that. And, again, to offer further support, here’s some holiday help for those of us with eating disorders: 4 Ways To Navigate The Holidays When You Have An Eating Disorder By MARGARITA TARTAKOVSKY, MS The holidays can be a difficult time for people recovering from eating disorders. There’s the abundance of food and the potential for family conflict. There’s the addition of tons of tasks to your list. It can be overwhelming, no doubt. That’s why I’m pleased to share some insight from experts at the Eating Recovery Center on how to overcome these kinds of obstacles and stay healthy. 1. Have a plan. Dr. Ovidio Bermudez, MD, chief medical officer and medical director of child and adolescent services at Eating Recovery Center, stressed the importance of communicating with your treatment team. Create a plan for the holidays that emphasizes recovery, and prepare for the what-ifs that might come up, he said. For instance, consider how you’ll navigate the stressors that used to trigger a relapse for you. Consider the many healthy options you’ll use to cope with stress and potential challenges. 2. Be gentle with yourself. Recovery takes practice. According to Bonnie Brennan, MA, LPC, clinical director of Eating Recovery Center’s Partial Hospitalization Program: If you do find yourself overeating or resorting to disordered eating behaviors, be gentle with yourself. The holidays are the hardest time of the year for individuals with eating disorders and you are not expected to be perfect. It is important to remember that a healthy relationship with food takes practice. You wouldn’t expect a piano student to play a concerto perfectly in front of an audience would you? Use any slips this holiday season as opportunities to reinvest in your recovery rather that beat yourself up and add to the pain. 3. Focus on what you value. Cultivate gratitude about what’s important to you this holiday season. According to Elizabeth Easton, PsyD, clinical director of child and adolescent services at Eating Recovery Center’s Behavioral Hospital for Children and Adolescents: Try focusing on the holidays in a broader context with an emphasis on what you value. This can help individuals in recovery from an eating disorder shift from getting lost in the details that may trigger feelings of anxiety, sadness or fear. When we focus on the “bigger picture” during the holidays, the chance to spend time with friends and family, finding [a] present for a loved one or the opportunity to slow down and recognize what you are grateful for, the holidays no longer focus on eating disordered behaviors, but rather our values. “Remember that you are celebrating and honoring traditions, both within your family and, when applicable, of your religious and cultural upbringing,” said Karen Trevithick, PsyD, CEDS, clinical director of outpatient services at Eating Recovery Center. 4. Focus on relationships. Eating disorders tend to narrow your world, and separate you from the people in your life. During the holidays, instead of isolating yourself, try to connect with others. This can be as simple as starting a conversation. “When you are spending time with friends and loved ones, try to engage in conversations,” Trevithick said. “It is OK to be curious about others and their own experiences this past year.” These are additional tips from Eating Recovery Center’s press release: • Turn the focus from food. Make togetherness, rather than food, the central theme of your holiday season and seek opportunities to plan and attend events that do not center around a meal. • Avoid “overbooking” your schedule. Prioritize your health and wellbeing over attending every holiday party, and be realistic about what you can manage. • Surround yourself with people who have healthy relationships with their bodies and food. If possible, bring a trusted family member or friend with you to holiday gatherings for support. Surviving the Holidays: A Primer For Family and Friends of Those Struggling With an Eating Disorder We are coming up on the holidays. For families this is a time meant for joy, festivities and socializing. These are times meant for us to draw closer together and to re-affirm what it is to be a family, a time to catch up on what has been going on and share with one another the prospects for the New Year. To the individual suffering from an eating disorder, or in the throes of recovery, these occasions can be overwhelming and threatening. We want to be helpful and supportive, but nothing seems to come out right. What do we say? How can we let them know that we care and are there for them, without being so awkward about it? Those patients who are struggling are often at a loss during the holidays. They, too, have expectations for the holidays; and, oftentimes being perfectionists, they don’t want to let down their loved ones who are worried about them. Not only do they have to deal with the normal stresses of the holidays, they worry that they will fail—either their families by engaging in their eating disorder; or, conversely, their eating disorder by losing control and gaining weight. Surely, everyone is looking at them, wondering if they are eating enough, eating the right things, getting enough rest. Surely, everyone knows that they just got out of treatment and are talking about them. They smile and put on a brave face. They wonder if people are avoiding talking to them. Maybe it’s for the best. Some family members ask innocuously: “How are you doing?” Well, they think, before they respond with an obligatory, “Fine, thanks,” they feel…pretty much like a failure. Some of them have had to drop out of school, leave jobs, see their friends move on with their lives as they stay stuck. What happened to the person who was an honor student, track star, the one voted most likely to success? You’re at home with your parents? That’s great. Maybe you can use this time to get closer together. There’s always a silver lining to our struggles. Even worse: “You’re looking really good. You look…healthy.” Great, they think, I look fat. This dress is making me look fat. My face is all puffy. Everyone is talking about how fat I am. Maybe I need to stop eating right now. No wonder they sometimes hide in corners, avoiding eye contact. Their body language is closed, forbidding. Don’t talk to me. Don’t tell me that things will get better. Don’t ask me how I’m doing or if I’m going back to school or if I’d done with treatment. Don’t ask me anything. The best approach is not to ignore the eating disorder individual’s presence, but to approach them with kindness and sensitivity. Let them know you are glad to see them. Instead of commenting on their clothing; praise their shoes, jewelry or hairstyle if appropriate. Did they have a hand in decorating the tree or preparing a dish? Maybe you have a happy memory that you want to share with them to let them know that they are an important part of your life. Maybe you want to share something interesting that happen to you to help take the perceived focus off of them. To engage in conversation is important and a positive optimistic twist such as talking about their pets, new people in their lives, or television shows will go a long way to make the holidays brighter. The holidays are, ideally, a time to connect—a time to let each one of us know that we are not alone, that we are part of something greater than ourselves, that we are part of a family. You can count on us. We’ll be there for you. Call 1-800-445-1900 or visit us at www.remudaranch.com. For more information, please call 1-800-445-1900 or visit www.remudaranch.com God bless you, your family, your recovery process, your traditions and your holiday season!!! Copyright © 2012 by Sheryle Cruse

Dare to jump

There's no such thing as perfect. Dare to jump.

Whatever is…Cute? God endorses Cute Overload?

I love this image of the cat (in the hat) and Bing Crosby. It’s taken from one of my favorite Christmas movies, the classic, “The Bells of St. Mary’s,” starring Mr. Crosby and Ingrid Bergman. The humorous scene involves Bing Crosby’s character, Father O’Malley, addressing the parish of nuns he recently was appointed to. It’s seemingly “business as usual,” as he embarks on his speech, that is, until a cat gets ahold of his hat on the fireplace mantel. For the next few minutes, as Father O’Malley is all about church business, and the nuns are all chuckling at the adorable scene of the cat stumbling around in that hat which is too big for his cute little fuzzy head. It hardly seems like a great example of productivity. But recently, the cute factor was studied regarding productivity. Check out more of what a recent article, written by Liz Acosta, “Japanese Study: Looking at Cute Things Makes You Smarter,” mentioned: “…In a series of tests, researchers at Japan's Hiroshima University asked 48 subjects -- all between the ages of 18 and 22, right handed, and equally divided between men and women -- to play a game similar to the classically anxiety-inducing Operation after viewing a variety of images ranging from food, people, and adult and baby animals. The experiment was designed to test for fine motor dexterity. During the multiple times subjects played the game, they were shown images of puppies and kittens before at least one of those sessions… …The results? In the rounds following the puppy and kitten viewings, subjects performed about 44 percent better. Viewing adult dogs and cats also helped subjects play the game better, but only by 5 percent… …In another experiment designed to test concentration, 16 students were given the task of identifying a particular number (for example, the number 6) out of a group of 40 printed on sheets of paper without pointing. They were similarly shown images of baby animals, grown-up animals, and foods such as pasta, steak, and sushi. Students performed better after viewing baby animals, while images of adult animals and food had no effect. In their last test, a set of 36 subjects were tested for focus by responding to letters on a screen. Again, the group of 18 women and 18 men was shown images of baby animals, adult animals, and appetizing food. And again, subjects who looked at the baby animals were able to focus better than the subjects who looked at adult animals or food…. …While the study did not explore how and why looking at cute adorable fuzzy babies makes us smarter, researchers concluded ‘that perceiving cuteness not only improves fine motor skills but also increases perceptual carefulness.’ The researchers added, ‘This study provides further evidence that perceiving cuteness exerts immediate effects on cognition and behavior in a wider context than that related to caregiving or social interaction.’" In today’s popular culture landscape, there are numerous cute websites out there, like “Cute Overload,” “Dog Shaming,” “Love Meow” and “I Can Has Cheezburger” (their spelling and grammar, not mine), just waiting to preoccupy us. I have often sunken into the vortex myself every single time I get writer’s block. And yes, looking those cute critters are often times more enjoyable than our actual work environment. But could it be that there is a spiritual law in effect here? Anyone? Anyone? “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:8 Works for me! What if, indeed, thinking on things which inspire either awe or “awwwwwh,” we were more productive, healthier and happier?

We often make things more complicated than they need to be, don’t we? This holiday season, let’s take more time to look at and think about some cute, sweet, good, kind and whimsical things. Go! Go ahead, check out Cute Overload now! Copyright © 2012 by Sheryle Cruse

Tragedy...

This time of year, so many lights are lit, including Hanukkah and Christmas. Tonight’s Shabbat has us also lighting Shabbat candles as well. It is, therefore, with tremendous sadness, that on such a sacred night, we cannot avoid remembering the tragedy of today and the candles needed to be lit for those lost. I wish we never needed to light these candles. Praying for all who mourn, remembering the sacred souls of Sandy Hook.

Han in Hanukkah

12-12-12

December Issue of Serene Scene Magazine

Dember, 2012 Issue of Serene Scene Magazine, featuring Cruse's article, "Haunted At the Holidays"

Grasshopper Sight

It is all about how you look at things.

Ever hear that expression? We’re often advised to think positively, to believe in ourselves and to have faith in God. All of these things speak to our perspective on any life issue. All of these pieces of advice can feel like they’re easier to say than be lived, right? When I was a little girl, living on the farm, come late summer and early autumn, our farmstead was besieged with grasshoppers. I tell you, it was a tiny snapshot of what any locust plague must have looked like. It was hard to walk anywhere without there being a grasshopper right there, almost crunched by my foot. And my little girl curiosity had me bending down to get a closer look at these critters. I’d focus on their bug eyes, wondering, just what they thought of us people, you know, those giants who often tried not to step on them. How did the grasshopper look at things? I was reminded of this grasshopper memory as I studied Numbers Thirteen. The scriptural passage speaks to the power of our perspective on things, whatever that perspective may, in fact, be. According to Numbers, there was some land. And there was the dilemma about what to do with that land. There were a couple of different viewpoints: “Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said, “We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it.” Numbers 13:30 There’s one… “But the men who had gone up with him said, ‘We can’t attack those people; they are stronger than we are.’” Numbers 13:31 And there’s the other. But that last point of view solicited further feedback. And, as it that wasn’t enough, they went a little tabloid with the news. Oh, goody! “And they spread among the Israelites a bad report about the land they had explored. They said, ‘The land we explored devours those living in it. All the people we saw there are of great size. We saw the Nephilim there (the descendants of Anak come from the Nephilim). We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them.’” Numbers 13:32-33 Ah, yes, we see, in vivid detail, the power of positive thinking in action! Scripture cautions us about our often fickle and insecure hearts… “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” Proverbs 4:23 “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.” Proverbs 23:7 Yikes. Why is a bad report so much easier to believe than a good one? We seem to, as human beings, automatically defer to that negative thought, don’t we? We think of ourselves as insects often much quicker and easier than we think of ourselves as conquerors. What if the thoughts we’ve been thinking have been wrong all along? About our issues? Our addictions, disorders and compulsions? About our own value and worth? What if you and I are just one teeny tiny thought away from a breakthrough? Do we say, “I can” or “I cannot?” God is thinking higher of us right now. He believes in us and has given us Scripture to support those beliefs: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 Do we believe that? Live that? Allow that to govern our lives? Or do we run ourselves down with the untrue grasshopper identity? We choose. I know, I know, I know. It is not easy to take on the positive approach to life. It can feel even more impossible to view ourselves positively. This isn’t about some perfect result. Everything starts with a decision. What will we decide now? Right now? Why not make a decision to pursue the positive over the negative. You will not be perfect and problem free. But you will be in agreement with what God has to say about you. And it has nothing to do with a grasshopper! Copyright © 2012 by Sheryle Cruse

Glory:Snow Monitor

Gracie Meets the Menorah

4 Ways To Navigate The Holidays When You Have An Eating Disorder

By MARGARITA TARTAKOVSKY, MS The holidays can be a difficult time for people recovering from eating disorders. There’s the abundance of food and the potential for family conflict. There’s the addition of tons of tasks to your list. It can be overwhelming, no doubt. That’s why I’m pleased to share some insight from experts at the Eating Recovery Center on how to overcome these kinds of obstacles and stay healthy. 1. Have a plan. Dr. Ovidio Bermudez, MD, chief medical officer and medical director of child and adolescent services at Eating Recovery Center, stressed the importance of communicating with your treatment team. Create a plan for the holidays that emphasizes recovery, and prepare for the what-ifs that might come up, he said. For instance, consider how you’ll navigate the stressors that used to trigger a relapse for you. Consider the many healthy options you’ll use to cope with stress and potential challenges. 2. Be gentle with yourself. Recovery takes practice. According to Bonnie Brennan, MA, LPC, clinical director of Eating Recovery Center’s Partial Hospitalization Program: If you do find yourself overeating or resorting to disordered eating behaviors, be gentle with yourself. The holidays are the hardest time of the year for individuals with eating disorders and you are not expected to be perfect. It is important to remember that a healthy relationship with food takes practice. You wouldn’t expect a piano student to play a concerto perfectly in front of an audience would you? Use any slips this holiday season as opportunities to reinvest in your recovery rather that beat yourself up and add to the pain. 3. Focus on what you value. Cultivate gratitude about what’s important to you this holiday season. According to Elizabeth Easton, PsyD, clinical director of child and adolescent services at Eating Recovery Center’s Behavioral Hospital for Children and Adolescents: Try focusing on the holidays in a broader context with an emphasis on what you value. This can help individuals in recovery from an eating disorder shift from getting lost in the details that may trigger feelings of anxiety, sadness or fear. When we focus on the “bigger picture” during the holidays, the chance to spend time with friends and family, finding [a] present for a loved one or the opportunity to slow down and recognize what you are grateful for, the holidays no longer focus on eating disordered behaviors, but rather our values. “Remember that you are celebrating and honoring traditions, both within your family and, when applicable, of your religious and cultural upbringing,” said Karen Trevithick, PsyD, CEDS, clinical director of outpatient services at Eating Recovery Center. 4. Focus on relationships. Eating disorders tend to narrow your world, and separate you from the people in your life. During the holidays, instead of isolating yourself, try to connect with others. This can be as simple as starting a conversation. “When you are spending time with friends and loved ones, try to engage in conversations,” Trevithick said. “It is OK to be curious about others and their own experiences this past year.” These are additional tips from Eating Recovery Center’s press release: • Turn the focus from food. Make togetherness, rather than food, the central theme of your holiday season and seek opportunities to plan and attend events that do not center around a meal. • Avoid “overbooking” your schedule. Prioritize your health and wellbeing over attending every holiday party, and be realistic about what you can manage. • Surround yourself with people who have healthy relationships with their bodies and food. If possible, bring a trusted family member or friend with you to holiday gatherings for support.

Happy Hanukkah!!!

Happy Hanukkah!!! May God bless you all!!!