This past Sunday at mass, we had a visiting Basilian priest.  He gave the most wonderful homily about “putting on a new self.”  What perfect timing for this particular season in my life.  Personally, I have “put on a new self” physically, spiritually and emotionally.

Since beginning my real food journey in January, my physical self has changed dramatically.  Weight loss was not my main goal, it was simply a byproduct of completely changing my relationship with food.  I wanted to nourish my body in the best possible way.  I was tired of the yo-yo’s of dieting and truly wanted to make a lifestyle change.  I began by cutting out processed foods and only eating REAL food and I began to feel better than I ever had before!  I also began walking.  It started as a fitness goal, but my daily walks quickly turned into a mental release that I craved!

I have a new spiritual self.  Different than before.  Deeper.  A more intentional self whose eyes are focused on God.  HE alone is my refuge.  HE became more and I became less.  I allow HIM to work through me.  I listen more.  Truly listen.  I am open and eager to see the changes HE has for me.

I have a new emotional self.  I am less anxious, happier and more at peace.  My joy now comes from within.  I have positive thoughts that lead to positive choices.  Happiness is a choice, not a result.  I made the choice to be happy.  Happiness will not come TO you, it can only come FROM you.

My new self has chosen to be present over perfect.

Perfectly imperfect.

Because let’s be honest, the pursuit of perfection leads to pretending.  Pretending then encourages others to also chase perfection.  And it’s all just SO VERY EXHAUSTING.

Don’t complicate life.  Choose to live simply.

Leave behind what is dragging you down.  Maybe it is hurt, fear, judgement, frustration, anger, sadness or negativity from your past.  The past cannot be changed, but it does not have to define you.  Learn from your mistakes and move on.  Use them as valuable lessons to better your new self.  Turn it all over to HIM.  Let go and let God.

Embrace change.  Without change there can be no growth.  Have patience and remember, it is a process.  Everyone’s journey is different and unique, just to them.

Put on a new self whose heart is grateful.  It truly is a wonderful way to start each day.  Instead of waking up thinking about what you HAVE to do today, change your mindset to what you GET to do today.

Dear friends, let’s give each other the gift of transparency and grace as we focus on God and “putting on a new self.”  Because perfection simply does not exist on this side of eternity.