Turning my passion into something more...

Over the last year and a half, I've become very passionate about working out. I've seen the direct and indirect effects front and center. I've seen my lifestyle change and my quality of life is incredibly different. I might not always want to roll out of bed and into the gym, but the thought of working my body and truly viewing my body as a temple (most of the time...I really do love cookies!) makes me really excited.

For the last two months, I have been looking into different programs for becoming a personal trainer. Patrick and I have talked, discussed and prayed at great length about this topic. I didn't want to jump in and end up hating it. I talked to a trainer at the YMCA and she was really encouraging. She offered me the opportunity to train with her and be mentored by her. I also talked with the fitness director at the Y about job opportunities. Both conversations were affirming and encouraging.

A few things have been stopping me from actually doing this: fear of failure, fear that I won't be good at this and fear that no one would want to train with me. These fears are deep and rooted in so much more than being a personal trainer. I wonder how often I've felt compelled to do something, only to turn my back on it in fear? I shutter to think about that.

So, going against every fear inside of myself, I purchased the study kit and materials from ACE (American Council on Exercise). They came highly recommended and offer a great deal of information and helpful materials. After three to six months of studying, I take an exam. If I pass, I become an ACE certified personal trainer. And that is my goal.

I'm really excited and hopeful with this opportunity. I want so badly to encourage people to workout and even work along side of them. I want to live out the gospel to people whom I work with and I want to be able to use this as a personal ministry. I can see how excited I get when I help others and talk to them about working out. It's changed my life and I don't want anyone else to miss out on that.

Nervous, fearful, excited, joyful...I'm very grateful that the Lord opened this door and ushered me through, despite myself, to make something I'm honestly passionate about into something purposeful for His glory.