BITS AND PIECES
I
was thirty-two years old in the photo on the cover of this book. I was at the
peak of my career as an actress and model after completing twenty films in just
over two years. However, I longed to be wanted and understood for more than my
body. The activities I once loved, and that brought me joy, were taken from my
life as I became obsessed with food and exercise. Although I was eager to work
on films that told meaningful stories, I had to decide whether being a starving
artist was worth it.
Although
I loved working as an actress, the entertainment industry was a significant
trigger for me. The most important lesson I learned as an actress was the extent
of my compassion for others; I didn’t extend it to myself. As I learned to show
myself compassion, I became less self-critical and more understanding of the
pain I had experienced throughout my life. Self-compassion created space for
love and forgiveness, helping me make progress in my recovery. If you struggle
with self-compassion, chapter two will help you identify your triggers
and set personal boundaries. Setting and maintaining these boundaries creates
room for personal growth and development.
So,
I ask you now: what is contributing to your struggles with food or substance
use? As you work through the questions in this workbook, your answers will
become clear. However, you must prepare yourself for the difficult work ahead. The
world is tough. It will try to defeat you. The only sure way to recover from
anything is to accept accountability for our actions. Accountability isn’t just
about the individual suffering; everyone needs to hold themselves accountable
for their choices. Accountability isn’t about blaming; it's about learning to
communicate effectively and taking ownership of the direction of our lives. It
won't be easy, but it will be worth it.
As I researched the topics in this workbook
further, I found a sobering fact: approximately 30 million people in the US and
70 million worldwide have been diagnosed with an eating disorder. This suggests
that these issues affect a significant portion of the global population.
Shockingly, half of Americans are connected to someone fighting an eating
disorder, yet only a few thousand doctors are trained to treat them. When I
think about families, friends, clinicians, teachers, and spiritual leaders, I
realize that almost every household could benefit from the resources in this
workbook. As you prepare for the challenging journey ahead, ask yourself, “WHY
is recovery important to me right now?” and “What is your WHY or
reason for reading this workbook?”
The Road Less Traveled can
mean many different things to different people. Author M. Scott Peck
explores the connection among psychology, personal growth, and spirituality in
his book, The Road Less Traveled. The book highlights the
importance of taking responsibility for your life and the choices you make.
Key lessons include the value of honesty and the idea that life’s obstacles can
be opportunities for growth and learning. In the Bible, The
Road Less Traveled refers to choosing a path that may feel less
secure and more uncomfortable, with fewer people by your side. Every day,
God invites us to take this less-traveled path, one that offers freedom and
peace rather than constantly chasing after what leaves us unfulfilled. By
walking this path, you gain a deeper understanding of your pain and suffering
through self-discipline, love, and grace, thereby emerging as a new, more
enlightened self. My journey with God has instilled in me a deep sense of
forgiveness, compassion, hope, love, and perseverance.
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