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I was feeling inspired, and moved by something that I read in Steve's profile... And realized when I was writing to him, that this was the Battle Log entry I've been trying to write for the last two weeks... Though seriously, it could be that Bastille's album Bad Blood as a soundtrack played a big part... Here is what I said to him: Steve, I know you get a bunch of messages from your followers... So I'll try (I say try, because I am a woman after all... And a long winded one at that) to keep this short. I joined because your newsletters are fantastically entertaining and completely on par with my personality, but for another reason that is far more important: You make me feel empowered. Society and our culture shames people for being outside of what is deemed "normal" size. Commercialized weigh loss programs try to make you feel like you need their program or you will fail... You give messages of hope and encouragement for free. You have created an environment that encourages self-love, not shame... What is the ultimate way to show love for yourself? To make yourself as healthy as you can, in any way that makes you happy and works to meet your goals for yourself... I was looking at your profile to see what you were posting about, if you posted at all... And saw the ignorant post that you responded to... I started reading that person's post, and felt this heavy weight that maybe there are people on the board who think that way... But your response, and the response after from the man who lost almost 200 lbs, was like Thor himself had destroyed ignorance with one swing of his mighty hammer... I have only been a forum member for what...two weeks? But the love, support, and encouragement I have felt was so overwhelming... I honestly didn't understand it, I've been so used to using self-hate to excuse my body size and shape.... And I'm finally beginning to realize that it isn't my size, it's my love for who I am... And doing what I can to love myself by treating my body like it deserves to be treated, like the goddess it is.... I feel empowered by you, and the remarkable transformation of the man that had posted with you.... What he said was very powerful too... (Especially when you are listening to Bastille's CD bad blood in he background lol) I just wanted to say "Thanks." In the shortest way a forum nerd like me can.... In a really long message... Haha My first goal can be considered met... I just didn't know that I had even made a goal... My road to leveling up my life starts at loving myself... And thanks to you and your forum's members... I think I've started that journey... Okay, this may be ALL inspired by this album... But I feel empowered and ready to tackle my life's epic journey. Thank you for getting me started. I am excited to have you and your "minions" by my side the whole way. Big Hugs, Sara Age: 29 Height: 5'8" Weight: 233.4 lbs Target/Goal: Goddess level How will I get there? I am already there, I just never realized it. What will I do to stay there? 1) Take care of myself: get a full night's sleep, work at a job I enjoy, love with my whole heart, and forgive those who have wronged me 2) Take care of my body through exercise: 3 days/week minimum with Bodyweight training at first, progressing to personal training with Clawed_Bear's trainer when he gets back from his vacation, and continue to Crossfit classes when my body is ready to handle the challenge. 3) Take care of my body through food: consume whole fruits, veggies, lean meats, whole grains, and other good foods...and yes, okay, I include some chocolate in there... How often will I do this: Every day for the rest of my life (unless otherwise stated). What I will do when I stumble: Look to the encouragement of the NF community, and take my inspiration from those who came before me. (I think I also just wrote my first Battle Log entry!)