07/19/2025
๐ชต Journal ยท July 16, 2025 ยท Toronto
Today marks my third day in Toronto. Honestly, just a few months ago, I couldnโt even imagine having the energy to get on a planeโlet alone visit an old friend. Iโve struggled with obesity for years. My body always felt heavy and tired, and even getting out of bed would leave me out of breath. But here I amโI made the trip all the way from Red Deer to finally keep my promise to Helen:
โOnce I lose the weight, Iโll come see you.โ
Helenโs back porch looks like something out of a postcard. Sunlight spills over the wooden deck, and the air smells of pine and fresh flowers. She set up a woven swing chair just for me, and the moment I sat down, I felt lighter than Iโve felt in years. One of the cushions read โBetter at the lakeโโand honestly, it felt like that message was meant just for me.
This feels like the start of a brand-new chapter.
The old me constantly turned down invites to gatherings and tripsโmostly because nothing fit anymore, and even short walks left my knees aching. But today, here I am, on this peaceful summer porch, looking out at the lake and tall pines, finally feeling calm and at ease.
Helen made us teaโher special blendโand we sat in the sun, reminiscing about our university summers. We laughed, we cried, and it was like time hadnโt passed at all. At one point I blurted out, โIt feels like Iโve come back to life.โ
Iโm grateful for the version of me who didnโt give up.
And even more grateful for who I am nowโsomeone who can sit on a friendโs porch, soak up the moment, and fully embrace life again.
