Be The Change
In the Present
My sister Elizabeth passed away last week, right before I was scheduled to talk in NYC. I rushed home from a team meeting in Delaware, just to arrive one hour after she passed.
Tears started to roll down my face as I found myself looking down at her lifeless body. Emotion continued for the next minute or two - and then something wonderful happened. I found myself not thinking about the past, nor worrying about the future, but rather in the present moment. I closed my eyes and started to smile, then even laughed a bit. I was so happy to see her at peace, not suffering anymore, but rather expanded back into the universe and in God's arms.
My sister had suffered from debilitating diabetes her entire life. She lost the ability to drive from poor eyesight, gave herself injections for two decades, and even had a transplant. And through all that she still spent more time in the hospital that anyone I know. Literally in and out every other day or week - for sometimes months at a time. Probably 10 years of her life was spent under doctors care, and most of the time they really had no idea what they were doing. But she pressed on... always with a smile.
Self Love
My eyes really have opened since starting this raw food journey. I see people and sometimes my heart breaks to see the condition that they are in, or how they treat themselves. I was recently walking through the grocery store and saw so many people overweight, red-faced, or just looking tired and unhealthy. I would then look into their shopping carts to find twinkies, potato chips, and wonder bread. Every time I even see someone smoking, no matter their age, I feel the same way.
Do they know what its doing to them? Do they care?
I was in that same boat 2 years ago when I hit 400 lbs. When I think back it wasn't that I didn't know, I think it was that I didn't care. I just didn't think highly enough about myself, or loved myself enough to make healthy choices.
Do you remember that song by the Fugees, "Killing Me Softly?"
I remember it a little too well, and you know what - Its time for a change!
What does it take to win the race?
Some people aren't educated about healthy food choices ... lets teach them!
Some people don't have the support system ... lets create a community!
Some people don't have the motivation ... lets inspire them!
Its not one person who is going to change the world, its all of us. Together we can educate, co-create, and be an example of a new generation of healthy, happy people who are living life to the fullest. Not through our words, by preaching at them until we are blue in the face, but rather through our example. Lets live a life of abundance dropping seeds of knowledge along the way.
That is how we will create heaven on earth.
"Be the change you want to see in the world."
- Mahatma Gandhi
PS. Juice Feasting Update
- Day: 74
- Weight: 217.6 lbs
- Since JF: 42.4 lbs
- Total Lost: 182.4 lbs
Peace and Love,
Philip
Philip
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Reader Comments (13)
I was very moved by this and I'm sending my love. You inspire me every time I read your posts.
Philip,
My condolences for the loss of you sister. I was in Philly the last few weeks because my cousin passed in her sleep. She like your sis had many health issues and was about to under go surgery #28.
I felt much the same as you. I made an attempt at the juice feast this week. I only made it for 2 days, I am just not there yet but plan to get back on track with the raw.
Thanks for all of your candor and inspiration!!
Bless you and your path.
CONRATS too on the continued weight loss.
Dear Philip,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Your light is such an inspiration to the people of the world.
Many blessings to you,
Dawn
I loved your post today. I'm one of those overweight people you might see once in a while with unhealthy things in her cart. I know what to do to lose weight and get fit. I probably know as much as you do. But knowing and doing are two different things. You are absolutely right that lecturing people like me isn't the answer. Inspiration and community are what I need, and I know there are others who need that as well. I think it takes someone who's been there, like you, to understand this issue. Thanks for blogging about it!!
Phil i am really sorry to hear about your loss and also understand how you felt glad that your sister is not suffering any more. It hurts to see your loved ones suffer every day.(how i wish our loved ones see the beauty of healthier alternatives)
like you said the 3 sentences of wisdom on what it takes to win the race. we can create the change and hopefully a day will come when there is more happiness and wisdom !!!
Thank you everyone for your loving support. : )
Wow Philip, I know I've said this before, but you truly are inspirational. Sometimes you make me want to cry - in a good way of course. I'm sorry for your loss, but I congratulate for your rebirth...I do believe that this raw food path is truly your calling in so many ways...thank you for sharing your journey, and for being such a unique and lovely individual.
With much love, your friend, Debbie :)
Your energy on friday is a true example of your "RAW" power Phil!!!! I give you lots of credit for staying strong and vibrant! I know your sister is still with you and with everyone. Sometimes it is good to know that we are all one... ya know? Love ya buddy! Keep the raw smile flowin! : )
I am so sorry about your loss. Thank you for being the change and inspiring so many of us along the way.
Phillip,
I'm so sorry for your loss. It's so hard to see loved ones not taking care of themselves. You are right, your sis is finally free and she is still with you.
You are such an inspiration to all of us.
XO
Pixy Lisa
My thoughts are with you. I'm sending good and loving energies your way. I have 5 siblings and can't imagine losing any of them. I love how you felt "present and in the moment" I imagine your sister was right there with you.
With much love,
Nathalie
Dearest Philip,
I am so sorry for your loss. The thing to remember is you never loose love. Love lives on long after the body and soul have separated. You have only lost the vehicle in which she lived. She is with you in spirit always (her smile).
Blessed be,
Tuliza
Dear Philip,
I am so sorry to hear of your sister's passing. My Grandmother went to heaven on April 4th after a 10 year battle with Alzheimers' disease. I, too, am thankful in knowing that she is finally at peace and no longer suffering. I have several family members that have died from complications of diabetes & heart disease. I am pre-diabetic & suffering from other ailments as well. I don't wish to follow in my family's footsteps. I will turn 39 tomorrow & have decided to celebrate by beginning a juice feast!
You are a beautiful & loving inspiration.
Thanks & blessings to you.