After my daughter was born, I put on a bit of weight. It wasnt a dramatic change, but My husband started complaining about how I looked, making little comments all the time.
Instead of saying, Its alright love, youre still the best, and waiting patiently for me to recover, he just left. Walked out so abruptly that one day he didnt come back at all. There I was, left holding my baby girlno need for details, Im sure you get the picture.
Eventually, I got tired of feeling miserable and found the strength to get my life back. I bought myself a Labrador, named him Alfie, and started jogging with him every morning. I began doing sit-ups and getting back into shape. It wasnt easy, especially emotionally, but concentrating on exercise kept those dark thoughts at bay. I got used to working out, and when I landed a job at a local office, I signed up at a fitness club.
Unlike the old gym instructor Id had before, the personal trainer there, Mr. Bennett, turned out to be thoughtful and patient. After a few years of sticking with my fitness routine, I didnt just get my figure backI actually improved it, I’d say by at least half again! I started to love myself and my body again.
One evening, on my way home with my gym bag, wearing my tracksuit, I noticed my ex-husband standing outside our flats door. He was awkwardly waiting there, holding a bouquet and a box of chocolates It looked like hed been buzzing the door, but my daughter wasnt letting him in. Thats when I realised I was about to live out the dream so many abandoned people have
To make the one who left regret it. I straightened up, did five quick squats, adjusted my posture, and took a step towards him.
And guess what he said? Excuse me, miss, do you live in this building? Could you open the door for me?
I couldnt help but laugh, bitterly, covering my face with my hands, feeling an indescribable sense of triumph as I moved aside Did I say something amusing? he snapped, annoyed. Whats so funny? I said, Back at the registry office when I promised to love and protect I turned fully towards him and added, I still havent managed to laugh about that! He stared at me for a moment. Do I get to see my daughter? he pleaded. No, I replied. Just leave. Go. I watched him walk away, turning back over and over but it didnt make any difference. Dreams come true, if you want them to.
If Ive learned anything from all this, its that you have to believe in yourself, pick yourself up even when life knocks you down, and never let someone else decide your worth.
