What's on my mind right now is getting my physical body in shape to do the things I still want to do. In other words, I want to be as fit and healthy as possible.

So – what to do?

I think I've read enough books and magazines on the subject to write my own book. However, I'm no expert and don't claim to be. I just know that common sense helps. Well, in a culture where being out of shape has become the norm, a little common sense certainly can't hurt.

So, all my processing of information has come to this:

1. The majority of food manufactures are out to make money. In other words, if we will eat it, they will make it. Who cares if we're feeding ourselves and our children garbage as long as we keep putting our money in their safes?

2. If people will buy it, the stores will sell it. Why else do we find acres of junk food in department stores and pharmacies and grocery stores? Especially right at the counter where small children can access it and beg their mothers for it? Again, the bottom line is the money going into the cash registers.

3. Restaurants are also in the business of making money. And people come back for what they like, no matter how healthy (or unhealthy) it is. So who cares that the sauce is mostly butter and that many entrees and desserts have more calories, saturated fats and sugar than anyone needs in a day?

4. It's up to us, as individuals, parents, and citizens, to navigate this minefield of food that isn't food and somehow find a way to eat healthy and keep fit.

How can we do that? I'm planning to post some of my thoughts in the next few weeks.

April 2, 2008

About the author 

N. J. Lindquist

N. J. Lindquist is the award-winning author of books, articles, short stories, and blog posts. She also edits and publishes the "Hot Apple Cider" anthologies. A former high school teacher, N. J. co-founded The Word Guild and teaches workshops for writers as well as speaking on various topics including creativity and leadership.

{"email":"Email address invalid","url":"Website address invalid","required":"Required field missing"}

Click on one of these covers to get a Gift from me!

And you'll also get my occasional newsletter.
>