My name is Sarah, I am a 33 year old mother of 2, wife as well as a student. I am not however, defined by any of the above roles.

Merriam- Webster defines “example” as ‘one that is representative of all of a group or type’. As a parent you do not have a choice other than to be an example. You do, however, have the CHOICE to be a good example or a bad example. Children look to adults in their lives to shape and mold them. I look to shape and mold my children into strong mind and body individuals who are not afraid to stand up for themselves or what is right. By having this as a life goal I CHOOSE to be a good example and have them CHOOSE or not CHOOSE to follow but be proud of the decision that they make.

The journey of who I am, like so many others, began when I was young. I was an athlete. I was a swimmer and a soccer player. I was strong, both in mind and body. This all came crumbling down when I was 15 and was injured in both sports. I was devastated. I was told that I should not continue to swim based on the condition of my shoulders and got out of the pool competitively forever. Looking back what I have learned is that the role or label of athlete did define me. That is what I was, it was what I did. Since then I have continuously put on weight. This has gotten me to where I am today. I have had 2 shoulder surgeries and am essentially scared to do anything that threatens me and another injury either physically or mentally.

This January I have CHOSEN to make a change. After being in the work force for 18 years in one capacity or another I have quit to go back to school for nursing. I have a desire to make a change in not only myself but others as well. In addition, I have CHOSEN to work with Josh. I met Josh about a year ago in COSTCO with Erin (003), heard about his story from her and then read for myself here on this site. His story was very inspiring because unlike those on the Biggest Loser TV program, he did this himself. He was able to transform his body and mind without the glam of Hollywood. I was impressed. The more I got to know about him the more I had a desire to make a change in myself; after all he was a father of 2 and had a wife… surely if he could do it I could too. As a life coach/trainer Josh has been able to teach me things that have helped me get through some days where I thought it would just be easier to maintain where I am now rather than get up off my butt and do something to CHANGE. I CHOOSE everyday how I am going to act and react. What I have to remember is that these are CHOICES that I make and that no one can make them for me.

I am amazed and honored that Josh has asked me to be part of his movement and to help CHANGE others. CHANGE is a CHOICE. What do you CHOOSE??? What kind of a example do you CHOOSE to be?