Core Strength

Ab workouts have never been my favorite. Take me to spin class or a long trail run or the weight room to see that crazed happy endorphin smile. Ask me to do mat work or a core class to hear a sheepishly hesitant "...um....sure??" So far in life I have avoided ab workouts and it didn't hurt me....

...until my first week of internship. During a session with a preschooler, I sat on the floor trying to get them to engage. They turned from what they were doing across the room and turned towards me. My head was celebrating. "You got it! You are doing great! You can do this! You..."WHAM!..."You are now lying on the floor....what?!"

Premature victory. I wasn't prepared for them to come across the room at full speed towards me with no intention of slowing down. I felt weak. The lead OT turned and said, "Gotta have core strength in here."

James 1:6 says, "but let him ask in faith with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven by the wind." Recently, I have felt like a wave in the sea, following the emotions that flooded from failed expectations. One moment, I'll feel great, competent and professional. The next, unprepared, frazzled and uncertain. Being great at my internship became my focus as I spent time thinking on my professional self. I started to make it a part of my core, something I am, not just something I do.

As I have been away from those who taught me what faith in action looks like, I find myself back at the basics. Love God and love others.

I am reminding myself of the core of how I live; faith, forgiveness and freedom. That's what I desire to be at my core and even though I may be weak in some areas now, I have hope and trust that the ultimate trainer will see me through each workout so the actions of my life will reflect what's on the inside.

I am still weak, growing stronger daily as I make time again for prayer and moving scripture from the pages to the heart. It makes me stronger, refreshed and awakened to living the day before me.

I still don't like core workouts, but I am learning to respect their purpose. To re-define and provide a strength necessary to live out my days.

Take time to do your own core strengthening asking yourself what do you want to live for? How are you growing towards that?