Around this time last year, I wrote this blog post. It led to a lot of emails and conversations with other UMC clergy throughout the country.
Well, turns out God put that in my heart last year to see if I’ll put my money where my mouth is.
After months of being in denial and procrastinating, last week, I finally got a blood test to confirm to see exactly how high my cholesterol level is. And yesterday, I went to the doctor’s to discuss my lab results. Yup. High cholesterol.
He told me that he didn’t want to put my on any medication, because I would be on those for the rest of my life.
He told me that it’s not too bad, my cholesterol, but I do need to change somethings in my life.
My diet. And a more active lifestyle.
I need to cut down on all the food I love. Deep fried. Fast food. Red meat. White rice.
Need to eat more fruits, vegetables, grilled stuff
And exercise more. 30 minutes, 5 days a week.
I never liked exercising. In high school, I worked out to keep up with my teammates in football and track.
In college, I worked out really hard for about 3 months, when I realized that I wanted a girlfriend. But I decided that my face was pretty enough. (I wish I was kidding… Ah. Young foolish thoughts…)
My wife will like that I’m ordered to go be more active. I’m a homebody. I don’t like it, but it’s comfortable.
I have 4 months to bring down my cholesterol level. (4 months, because that’s my next scheduled blood test).
Pastors (and leaders) tout about how much they love change. That’s half true. In all honesty, we love IMPLEMENTING change. We are just as resistant and hesitant towards change as our “set-in-their-ways” parishioners.
Do I want to get well?
Oh yea.
Even at the cost of cutting down on the things I love and adding on things I didn’t really care for.
So. My one or two readers. This is my way of holding myself accountable.
I strive to be a healthier person. Not just physically, but spiritually and emotionally as well.
Here’s to more carrots and broccoli!
Joseph Yoo 
Do it. I need to as well. I turned 30 about 5 months ago, and I know I now need to take better care of myself. As a youth and worship group leader I need to be a better example to others as well, so I’m with you brother Joe!!
You can do it, Joe! I’m trying to be more active these days too, and it is REALLY hard. As a married person, I recommend finding something you and your wife can do together. It’s more fun to be with somebody!
I have had the same problem. I was an athlete all through high school and went to college on a baseball scholarship. I alway stayed pretty for and when college was finished I decided I needed a break from all the exercise. Well 5 years later I am paying for that. So I am going to turn over a new leaf of a better more healthy me with you brother. On we go to a better and more healthy life!
I had a similar revelation 40# ago. Now at 180# and 4 marathons later, I can’t imagine *not* exercising. It does take discipline to get at it, especially since I have 2 young kids and a more-than-full-time ministry job, but it’s absolutely worth it.