“Don’t wait for something big to occur. Start where you are, with what you have, and that will always lead you into something greater.” – Mary Manin Morrissey
Several years ago, I ran with a group of women divided into 3 sections: Fast, Faster, and Fastest. I ran with the “Fast” runners, who in truth were notfast, but we kept in shape while having fun being together. During the hill runs, I’d struggle up the hill and a faster runner would already be running down. She’d shout, “Go, Sue! You’re doing great! Keep going!”
The encouragement from the coach and other runners strengthened me. How many of us have someone in our lives who will shout, “Go you! You’re doing great! Keep going!” Is that what we say to ourselves?
I wrote a newsletter called “Women Making Strides” for the running group. Each newsletter highlighted one of our runners. The women had faced challenges such as chronic pain, stressful jobs, and the death of a husband. But they made time to exercise and they were leaders at church, at home, and at work. Instead of complaining, they spoke about how they were overcoming their challenges. Might there be a connection between their care of themselves and the proactive way that they faced challenges and moved forward?
What is a “Woman Making Strides”?
A woman who makes strides appreciates being alive and takes active steps to care for her body, mind, and spirit. She accepts challenges along her path and uses her God-given talents to better the world.
This blog is a place where women can support each other in our personal growth as we dream and reach for goals.
I want to be a Woman Making Strides, and I hope you’ll join me.
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What is one step you can take to care for yourself? What are your dreams? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Women Making Strides 
I take a yoga class at the park district each Saturday morning. I began this nearly 10 years ago when my daughter wanted to take the course but was only 15 and the age requirement was 16. I thought I would sign up for the class with her but then quietly drop out because I probably wouldn’t be able to do the stuff anyway. Well, turns out I really enjoy it. My back no longer hurts, my upper body strength has been built up and I feel so much more flexible. I now wonder where I would be if I weren’t taking this weekly course. Now I’m the one who’s been in the class the longest and sometimes the teacher refers to me as an example on how to do a pose! I’d never have believed that nine years ago. I don’t have the time for housekeeping that I used to, and it generally suffers a bit, but the way I feel after yoga makes the mess worth while.
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That’s a long term commitment. Way to go, Cathy!
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Thanks Sue, for this opportunity! I am striving this summer to eat more wholesome, healthy foods and less processed foods, particularly sugar. More fruits and veggies. Goal: more energy, more muscle and less fat, and a feeling of control.
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Great idea, Sue!
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Hi Sue. Love this website and how you’ve expressed its “mission statement”. Like the prior commenter I am attempting to eat better. I have joined Jenny Craig which makes sure you eat 3 meals a day with snacks and plenty of vegetables and healty fruits; unfortunately the rest of it is very processed. I went this route because my discipline to eat the right foods was sorely lacking and I felt I needed structure to keep me in line. Already, after two weeks I can see how destructive my prior eating habits were. It’s kind of like re-learning how to eat right which involves planning ahead (but initially this program does all the planning for you). I do feel full on this diet, but can already tell that drinking the 64 oz of water and doing the 30 min. of exercise daily is key to losing the weight. And I share the same goals as the prior commenter; well said Sue B.
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Georgia, I hope the Jenny Craig program is going well for you! I’m inspired by your 30 minutes of exercise a day.
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Hi Sue, thanks for following my blog. I like your too.
I am losing 150 lbs (when my life derails, it does so in spectacular fashion!), and I am pursuing a career writing which has always been a dream of mine. And finally, I am taking art lessons and learning pen and ink, as well as colored pencil drawing.
All activities that care for oneself and feeds the soul.
Great blog idea.
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Monique, you are awesome! You are a great example of a Woman Making Strides.
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Enjoyed your post. I do yoga at home and occassionally a class. I started it to try something to help relax me and to hopefully maintain flexibility as well as work on strength some.
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Great idea!
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Hello Susan,
I am new to your site, but I would like to contribute. Since 2009, I have faced major health issues. I would like to get my health back. I’ve have made a stride with a 20 year goal, I a self-publishing a children’s book. Hopefully it will be out by September.
I am taking one day at a time, and trying to bra blessing to someone each day. Your site has been an inspiration. I am striving to get through each day.
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We found your blog and absolutely love it!! So inspiring!! Just want to say Hi and Thanks! -The Six Sisters
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