Summer Retirement

It’s so predictable. Same story. Different August.

The kids go through their clothes, figuring out what they need for the new school year, and without fail my pants are snug too! It’s not nearly as exciting for me to graduate to the next size.

Ugh.

Seems counterintuitive don’t you think? Summer is active. The days are long and bright. Opportunities for physical activity overflow. Fruits and veggies are plentiful and scrumptious.

But for me there is a big ole lack of structure. I lose my way. My good habits fade like an old beach towel draped over a pool chair.

I was chatting with my husband Josh about the need to get my act together and find my way back to healthy choices, and he shared an interaction that has stuck with him for many years.

One of his co-workers was leaving for his daily lunch break with the usual water bottle in hand and gym bag over his shoulder. When Josh said, “Have a good workout,” his friend replied, “Thanks, I’m making a deposit in my retirement fund.”

Brilliant.

When it comes to diet and fitness, I’m quick to focus on things like size or a number on the blasted scale. But looking at the bigger picture puts a beautifully different spin on it. Taking care of ourselves is an investment. A way to help us enjoy what we have. An opportunity to honor the body God has given us.

As we step away from the laid-back rhythm of summer, maybe you are with me in having lost some good habits in the sand. Let’s take one step in the right direction today—one choice that adds some value to our retirement fund.

XOXO

So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going to work, and walking around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Romans 12:1 (The Message)