Weight Loss: Not a Guarantee of Self Love and Respect!
By: Louisa Latela, MSW, LCSW
Sarah Ferguson courageously appeared on Oprah just days after a she got caught selling access to her ex-husband Prince Andrew in an undercover sting. She told Oprah what she did was an act of grave stupidity. It was also an indication of low self regard, disconnection from her authentic self, and a blatant disregard of her natural intuitive knowing. She said she knew in her gut that the man was an undercover journalist but chose to ignore her instincts.
She told WLS LIFESTYLES Magazine she chose food as her life when she was 13 years old. She struggled with food/body/weight issues until she was 36 years old when she became the Weight Watchers Spokesperson. She lost 50 pounds and has maintained that weight loss for more than 10 years now.
In spite of her weight loss success she obviously still struggles to truly love and nurture herself. It seems as if healing her relationship with food was just the beginning of Sarah’s journey home to her authentic self. She said this recent sting operation has left her feeling like she was stripped bare. While there can be some uncomfortable feelings in being totally exposed, with it also comes freedom. Because she has been thrust into such a vulnerable position Sarah can now relinquish her quest to be perfect which she told Oprah started when she was 12 year old. She no longer has to try to be what she believes everyone else expects or wants her to be. As paradoxical as it may seem it is true that in vulnerability lies authentic power. She understands that in order to gain control of her life, heal her heart, and let go of her feelings of self hatred she must now love and embrace all of who she is, even (especially) her dark parts and truly forgive herself. This will allow her to move forward connected to her Truth and live her life as her wonderful and amazing authentic Self.
I know Sarah’s struggle to live a life truly reflective of self love and respect resonates with millions of people. In sharing her ups and downs, accomplishments and setbacks along the journey home to her authentic self she will indeed be an inspiration and healing energy in the lives of countless people around the world. I wish for her all the best….
How about you? Are you living your Authentic Life? Below I have listed Characteristics of Authentic Living. How many of these characteristics describe you?
You live your life with passion and purpose.
You feel a profound sense of serenity and bliss deep within your heart.
You are able to remain peaceful and centered even in the midst of chaos.
You are number one on your list of priorities.
You feel really good about yourself no matter what anyone else says about you.
You listen to your instincts.
You trust yourself to make good decisions on your behalf.
You are addiction free.
You are honest.
You are intent on living your life from a place that is grounded in love, not fear.
You take good care of your body (eat well, drink plenty of water, exercise regularly, get a good night’s sleep).
You are comfortable speaking up for yourself in a way that is loving and respectful to all concerned.
You are surrounded by people who support and celebrate You.
You live in a state of gratitude.
You live mindfully, ever conscious of living in the NOW.
You take time each day for sacred silence, to be still and listen to you.
If you have any questions or comments you can contact me at louisa@louisalatela.com or 856.429.9799. To learn more about living authentically check out my new e-workbook “Live your Highest Good: Make Peace With Your Body and Food” www.liveyourhighestgood.com
