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The Transformation of Sharen Martin
Now it's time for some INSPIRATION.As I see it, few things are more inspiring than success stories about people who've made a transformation in their lives. These stories help us in so many ways -- they can lift our spirits, help us break through limiting beliefs, strengthen our faith and open our hearts. And that’s what today's story’s all about -- it's the transformation of Sharen Martin, whom I had the opportunity to share some time with recently in Colorado. What I discovered is that Sharen is just a beautiful woman inside and out. Through her transformation, she's been able to create a life which is even more focused on what matters most: family, faith, health and making a difference in the lives of others.
Sharen was awarded $10,000 for her championship results in a Challenge I held earlier this year. Along with that award she also received an additional $10,000 to donate to a cause (a charity, a person, an organization) which she holds close to her heart. Sharen donated her $10,000 to Denise Taylor's family, in honor of Jonnae, and now those funds are being applied to programs to help lift the spirits of other children who are suffering from leukemia and chronic illness.
Today, Sharen's transformation continues -- she is building her spiritual fitness by helping others through their transformation work and, she continues to improve her physical health by continuing a routine of strength training and aerobic exercise. She's now down 32 lbs. and her energy continues to rise.
So now I want to do 2 things to help you get to know Sharen – first, I want to share the letter she wrote me after she finished her initial Challenge work. She has some wonderful insight… please read her words of wisdom carefully. Next, I want to show you Sharen's Transformation Story video so you can meet her up close and personal. She has a beautiful family and a really wonderful "home farm" filled with colorful characters (I got along great with the chickens... but man, those goats!).
Sharen, thank you for allowing us to share in your beautiful life! May God continue to bless you and your family.
Until Next time...
Bill
P.S. You'll find Sharen's video and letter in the space below. Let me know what you think of this new Transformation Champion in the comments section which follows the video.
A Letter from Sharen Martin
Dear Mr. Phillips,
I completed BFL in 2000, after our first child was born. I was so close to my goal and felt better than ever! Others asked how I changed so quickly and I LOVED empowering them! Then, I suffered some kind of mental paralysis and quit. I didn’t realize it at the time but I got scared; scared of changing, mentally and physically. Which doesn’t make sense, since, in retrospect, I was in need of improvement. Several attempts to complete another challenge were unsuccessful; injuries, more babies, distractions, excuses; I lost the mindset, or never had it to begin with. The reasons to change were superficial and I lacked understanding of the deeper meaning of transformation.
I’ve struggled with what I’ve ultimately come to realize is self acceptance. Desperate to find my place in the world, all the while running around, lost in place. For too long, allowing the past to define and drive who I was as a person. This turmoil, confusion, emptiness, frustration, spiritual pain, was eating me alive. I knew exercise was the best anti-depressant, I knew I felt better on the program. What ultimately kept stopping me was fear of the unknown and waiting for everything to be perfect before I began.
Years passed and, as you know, adversity doesn’t take a backseat so we can get our lives in order. Then, my two minute warning came January 9th. Our family doctor called to report they found a spot and some fluid in my lung. He didn’t think it was cancer, but referred me to a specialist. I can’t tell you what it feels like – having the rug pulled out like that. I think my heart stopped beating. Our family lost 2 relatives in two years to cancer. Another relative diagnosed last year. The referral appointment was 6 weeks out. This was it – no more waiting for everything to be perfect – it was now, or really, maybe never.
The next day, I searched for you. I don’t believe it was chance coming across your Challenge starting January 11th. This time, this challenge, I got it. I didn’t quit. I got the mindset. I got the purpose; what it means to transform. I understand the message.
The whole program - eating, exercise and mental work took new direction. On the surface, sure I wanted to look good, but deeper, I wanted to feel good, be good. I wanted to be a role model for our three children. I wanted to work out the toxic thoughts. I wanted the peace you and others talk about.
During this Challenge, I realized many things:
Mainly, the challenge, the transformation is much more than healthy eating and pumping iron. It’s absolutely hard work, and sweating through workouts hardly scratches the surface. It started with a brutally honest and difficult look at me. Each day I made time to connect with myself; to work on the spiritual issues I’d neglected. I listened to your insight, really listened. I started to process the messages in your writing, and the ones in church. Church, being very new to me, was, at first, a painful experience. Just about every Sunday since we started attending last summer would have me in tears. So much of what the Pastor said spoke to my heart and how broken it was. The exercise time helped me reflect on those messages; open up to the work I needed to do. That time was very personal and helped me to see I’m not alone, I can’t go it alone, and I’m a valuable person. Through this, I gained the courage to meet with our Pastor, and unload the deepest cutting baggage.
I asked our oldest (7) what he would like to see different in mommy. He said “not to yell so much and to be happy.” Wow. I so desire to give them positive memories, a healthy outlook and the tools to lead a productive and successful future. I was failing them. I’ve learned that what I do, how I react to life’s adversity, will speak volumes over anything I say.
You’ve said, “It’s difficult to do the right thing in the wrong environment.” I realized people we associate with can be the wrong environment. To do right by ourselves we must surround ourselves with people who nurture our spirits, not squash them. In the past, others didn’t want me to change for whatever fears they had in their own lives and I fed off of that fear and anger. I don’t blame them, but I no longer allow myself to be held down by those people.
I see the fruits of my labor when out in public. Instead of glaring at passersby or ignoring them all together, it’s become second nature to make eye contact and smile. It’s incredible how a simple smile can lighten another’s face – you can literally see them get brighter, stand a little taller. Not one to be socially outgoing, this is a huge step.
No, I don’t look like a fitness model, or even one of those superb after photos, but you know what? I’m happy with my body now. I’m a mother. This body has given me three beautiful children. It’s been through a lot and I choose to honor it. And even better, I feel happy inside. I’ve learned to accept who I am; I’ve learned to be gentler, kinder with myself, my children, and others. I’ve learned to accept what life deals with a calmer spirit. I’ve forgiven the past failures and am learning to heal my spirit. Through this journey, I’ve noticed our whole home is affected by what I do. I can’t do for others unless I do for myself, yet I can’t do for myself unless I do for others. All these years I thought I could work on me after everything else was straightened out, everyone else was taken care of. Now I realize how backwards this thinking is. There’s still work to do, but I’m strong enough, have the courage now to handle it.
Thank you, so very much, from my whole heart. God bless you and your mission. I’m proud to join you.
Yours very truly,
Sharen Martin
1/11/08
171 pounds
32% body fat
4/4/08
149 pounds
20% body fat
Sharen your words are so true. I don't just want to be fitter and healthier for my body but for my mind as well. I want to have more faith in myself as well as in God. I lost my touch with God back in 2005 when my mum was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 43. My mum never drank alcohol never did drugs and was a fit and healthy person and when she got breast cancer I just thought why did this happen to such a good person. And even still today I ask the same question WHY!!! I don't want to be another statistic to breast cancer. I also want to be a person that is stronger in mind and in heart and someone that people will look up to and be proud of. I want to be proud of me and what I've achieved and I want to renew my faith back in God. I'm up to my third week of my transformation with the support of my friend Debbie Rossi and all my new found t friends I really will achieve the results that I want to get. Its all about doing what is right for your body and mind. I don't think I would be as strong if I didn' have the help. Sharen our words are a true inspiration and congratulations for what you have achieved. Yours truly Belinda Pumpa, Australia
i can relate. I don't just want to get skinnier and stronger, but more patient and loving and happy.
What a beautiful person and family! I can so relate to the issue of unhealthy thoughts and wanting to get free of those defeating ways. Thank you for sharing your humble and inspiring story of Transformation. Rhonda
Sharen, I just read the letter that you had sent to Bill and I have to say, it's as if you jumped into my heart and into my head and wrote out my life, my feelings. You are an inspiration to me and I'm sure to so many others. Thank you for reaching out to me with your beautiful hello and encouraging words. HeatherP
CONGRATULATIONS Super TRANSFORMATION CHAMP, GORGEOUS SPARKLING SHAREN!!! I am so very proud of YOU...do you remember when you and your whole family were so ill with the flu during your transformation,sorry for bringing it up...you have my most humble respect for not giving up on yourself when you were feeling so weak...STARJUMPS of JOY for your Tenacity of Spirit and your Open Giving Heart! Much love and HUGS of Gratitude for YOU, Diane xox
Sharen, Wow ! I just read your letter and it hit me right between the eyes. I too also did BFL in 2000 and because of stupid beliefs and mindset went back to my old ways. I have finally broken through all that and am on the right track again to living my life. Thanks for being such an inspiration.
Sharen, i just read the letter you sent in and was very encouraged. i always feel like i have to have all my ducks in a row before starting anything. thanks for sharing. michelle
I'm not surprised that my lunchroom has been taken over by a meeting leaving me to eat at my desk, purusing the internet. In the last year I've really started to appreciate the law of attraction and this is yet another case of it. You have 100% put into words everything that I have been thinking the last week since starting BFL for the 2nd time, but have been unable to come up with the correct words. I think I came across your story to show me that there are other people out there who are very similar to myself and have overcome the worst kind of block for success I can think of: the mental block. Well done on all your success and learning to love yourself for who you are entirely, not just what you look like on the outside. You can be assured I will reading your story when I need inspiration. Melissa
Congratulations! I am inspired by your words, "I got the mindset. I got the purpose; what it means to transform. I understand the message." To understand is my biggest prayer right now. Sure it would be great to be thin and buy the "cute" clothes, but more than anything I am wanting to UNDERSTAND the reason why I allowed myself to gain so much weight. Why do we wait for everything to be perfect? What is holding us back? These are questions I am struggling with now - If you have any suggestions on what helped you break the barrier I would love to hear more of your story. What a true statment you made also about "God was done being patient with me" - sometimes we just need that kick in the rear. I am happy for you and most of all, your family. Through this transformation you are able to be on your path God has planned for you and your precious little children will reap so many rewards. Keep up the good work - you look AMAZING! Your sister in Christ ~ CJ
I finally got a chance to read this in its entirety. Wow. Powerful stuff here
Awesome story Sharen!! I thank you for sharing so candidly with us. When you talked about not being so nice before your transformation I could really relate. I just finished my second challenge and I am so much nicer to those around me including my family. Everyday I am reminded I can improve even more. You look beautiful!! I too feel proud of my body now afterall it has blessed me with 4 amazing children and therefore I show it honor. You helped me refocus tonight as i watched your video. My batteries are charged a little bit more after readding your sweet essay. Thank you for sharing your story with us. Annissa
Bill, as always thank you for sharing another uplifting story with us. Sharen, congratulations on your transformation challenge. You’re a role model and an inspiration to all. May God bless you and your family and continue to fulfill all your dreams.
I could have easily written the words you spoke before your challenge. I cannot express to you how much your video means to me. God truly knew exactly what I needed to hear and see today. Thank you for the motivation, encouragement, and making me realize that if you can do it, so can I. It brought tears to my eyes to watch your video, and I truly look forward to being as happy as you are. Thanks Sharen.
What can I say that hasn't been said over and over again. God bless you Sharen. You are turely living the dream. I know the Conifer area well and it is a beautiful place. Turning your life and your families life around is a wonderful thing. A mother needs to be around to watch her child grow into adults. Your new health and renewed spirit will insure there sucess in the future. Continue the good work. Your courage makes it all that much easier for the rest of us. Thank you very much for sharing your family, your life and your transformation.
Sharen, your video has struck a cord deep within my heart this morning...especially about little things with your kids setting you off...you brought tears to my eyes, and you pushed me off the fence I have been sitting on for far too long...God placed you right in front of me today, and I am grateful.
Two Words....... THE SHAREN!!!!
Congratulations Sharen! I'm so happy for you! Thank you for sharing with us and I'm grateful to hear the positive changes that are possible!
Sharen - Congratulations and thank you for sharing your inspiring story! Bill - thank you for choosing Sharen and continuing to inspire us all to be our best! Kelli
Bill thank you for choosing Sharen Martin as a champion. Congratulations Sharen and thank you for sharing your story! I am sure many will be inspired from your story. I am pretty sure some of my family members will connect with your story.
Thank you Sharen for sharing your story with us and for all the moms out there who know exactly how you felt - and long to feel what you now feel- what an inspiration!!
When you said "All these years I thought I could work on me after everything else was straightened out, everyone else was taken care of. Now I realize how backwards this thinking is", it resonated with me, because I have done that for so long, and it is self defeating, and not even fair to those I have been trying to take care of!!! Gotta turn this baby around....you did it!! Way to go, Sharen.
Thank you Bill for bringing her story to us. Thank you Sharen for finding your strength deep down to be the change, and working to help others be the change in their own lives. ~Peebs~
CONGRATS on an AMAZING transformation!!!!
Sharon, thanks for your beautiful story. I am so happy for you!!! I started this challenge out as a gift for my husbands 50th birthday in Nov. this year... but I am learning that I really need to do this for myself FIRST. Thanks for clarifying that for me!! Deb
Thank you very much for sharing your awesome story. It is very inspiring. Take care. :)
Thats what its all about,realizing that you do matter.If you can not help your self,how can you truly help others.Congratulations to you,I am so happy for you. I grew up in Black Forest,CO love those goats. You are truly enlightening,love your smile and your spirit.
Hello Sharen, I usually thank Bill for his englightening insight to us, but with this one I am more into first thanking you for such an honest & down to earth letter. In reading it, one cannot miss your total surrender to the truth. And that is the 1st step toward a profound and lasting positive change in one's life. Again, Thank you so much St William (I am not being anything here, I really believe you are a Modern Saint in the making, I don't care what anybody says). ...Another precious, precious document. Thank you.
Your loving and living the way you deserve. Great work. Keep it up. I too had originally started out homeschooling our children. My oldest daughter who is now 7 years old had gone through several surgeries with her eyes and I started to homeschool her for fear of what the wolves would do to her self esteem. I really would have liked to continued to homeschool her and her siblings, but indeed things became too much and overwhelming for me as my husband was deployed for a second time so close back to back. Our family has been under such strain with the constant deployments that I needed the help of the public school system to educate the children as I was finding myself slipping more and more into isolation and depression and weight gain as well. Things have been turning around. So many different things happen in our lives and it hits us, our wake up call. My time is NOW and I am doing it. I can. We all can. And yes, life has it's distraction yes, I know. Here is where we can find strength knowing that we are not alone in our goals to better ourselves. Thanks for your story. Jineil
Sharen ~ You look fabulous!! I love your smiling, happy face!! Love your story and sweet family! Very touching transformation! Thank you so much for the motivation and encouragement, I know that I CAN do this!! Bill was too funny with the goats, especially when the one was chasing him and eating the roses!! LOL! Congratulations on winning the grand prize, but mostly for winning the inner transformation!! Love and hugs ... xoxoxoxoxo.... Dieanna
Wow, It's great to see such inspiring stories, and how they transformed theyr'e lives. It's actually great motivation to keep going every day. To know other people are doing there best and making a postive change. Please keep more great stories coming, I love it!
Sharen, thank you for sharing your story with us. You have a beautiful family and you are a true inspiration for all of us during our transformations!
It was a great story and inspiration. But the goat eating the flowers...priceless
Your story and all the beautiful stories here touch me daily. It is a gift that you shared it with so many & that our lives are enriched by the richness of you. Thank you for sharing & being such a INSPIRATION ! I love,love,love your horse by the way! ((((HUGS)))) To a CHAMP,Love Laura & Baby Reggie
I am so very pround of you and thanks for giving me hope! Bill...Thanks for sharing this wonderful story with all of us!!!~Kim
Sharen, I loved your letter and then your video made me cry. I, too, often feel like I don't derserve my children because I have days where I'm not the mom they deserve. The other day my 7 year old daughter came running to me crying because she spilled some milk. I told her it was okay...I love her much more than some silly old spilled milk. I asked her why she was crying and she said she was afraid I would be mad. Well, that would have been my reaction 6 months ago. I have made a firm decison not to sweat the small stuff...and just laugh about life's little mishaps. I got a health wake-up call myself two weeks ago when I had to have my gallbladder removed, most likely due to years of unhealthy, damaging eating habits. I've always been one to turn to ice cream when I'm upset. Now without a gallbladder I am forced to eat a better diet, low in fats. Instead of cursing what has happened to my body, I'm looking at it as a blessing. Now I must confront my demons and make the choice to be kind to my body...my temple. While I believe in God, I haven't ever been comfortable talking about it out loud. My daughter who's only been to Sunday School three or four times, said to me the other day, "Momma,isn't it great that Jesus died for us?". I told her, "Yes, honey it is." I've got to get that sweet child into church where she belongs. I belong there, too. Like you, Sharen, I often cry in church. Especially during the hymns. If church touches us so deeply, then we really do belong there. That feeling will carry us through our days. Congratulations on changing your life for the better. Being happy in our lives is what we want our children to remember about us!
Sharen - what a wonderful story. And your letter to Bill was such an honest and powerful testimony. Thanks! Jill
Bill, Thank you for sharing with us such a beautiful and empowering story. Sharen, Your story and what you accomplished is a great example for all of us. You are very inspiring. I hope you maintain that great impulse and continue making beautiful Transformations of your body, mind and soul. Note: It is good to see that even your goats were interested on the BFL book and wanted to *really* internalize the information in it... LOL - Ikigai
Congratulations and thank you for sharing your story Sharen. It's the willingeness you have to be vulnerable that will continue to make a difference everywhere! Thank you for that reminder. I wish you and your family deep joy, health and happiness. Keep being that amazing woman that you are! Continued thanks Bill for your great work. I too reached my goal and was a runner up with my husband in your Harv Eker challenge. I continue to grow since the challenge and am committed to sharing healing as I continue to heal. Your program made such a diifference for both Jim and I. With Love and gratitude to both of you for sharing this beautiful story. Cheryl
And you didn't say the goat ate the book, too! Of course, I guess that's what goats do. Eat things they're not supposed to. This profile was awakening...and FUN!
Ahhhh..dear friend...You have grown in so many ways....God has been your strength and courage for this journey. I am glad you sought for Him in all humbleness of heart, and found that He was waiting for you all along! He has given you everything you need to succeed in your life...and He will lift you up.....and has!!!!!!! Blessings and love! I am so proud of you! val
THE SHAREN! Hey girl...from day one, your spirit jumped out at me. Long story short, it's an absolute pleasure to be your friend. Thanks for leading the way in this Transformation, Sharen. I'm proud of you. More than you know. You fully deserve the recognition, and the reward. You know why? (at least part of the reason) Because I know and trust that you'll pass it on. A toast to YOU, Sharen! ~Kevin
Sharon, Your story is so uplifting and speaks volumes on how transforming on the inside for the "right" reasons is so much more meaningful than just trying to get into a bikini! I am so happy for you and your family and thank you for sharing your journey with me! All the best! Beth
Hey Bill - Hope all is well and you are enjoying the summer- such a great story with this young woman - what an inspiration to everyone - I'm pretty sure you don't remember, but I hosted you at my table several years ago at the George/Newman's Own Awards - Hope to reconnect with you sometime - Have a great weekend - and thanks for all you do for so many - I hope someday to be able to accomplish a fraction of what you have done - best, Tsalem tmueller@newscorp.com
Sharen such beautiful transformation! A very powerful statement to be," happy on the inside...finally!" I'm so happy for your transformation, for you and your family.
Sharen...You truly are an inspiration. The way you spoke so honestly about the transformation you made in regards to your family, your kids, really touched me. Yay for you! I am SO happy for you. THAT'S the kind of happiness, peace, and love I want for my family, for myself. Your video made me smile through my tears. That is the best feeling. I love it! Your letter is going in my Inspiration section of my binder! ((huggles))
Sharen~ WOW! with tears I thank you for not giving up! Now you are free to dance, free to love and be loved. You shine the light of God! (and btw, He never lost patience with you, you are His beloved and He has given kingdoms for you) Congratulations! You told me once to picture Bill coming to MY house and that's what I continue to do! :D Bill, thank you for sharing Sharen's Transformation with us! :D Beverly
Wow great story, I can relate to how Sharen was feeling, I am feeling that way right now, and working towards making that change. Thanks for shareing your story. I know if you can do it so can I. Love always Julieann
Sharon you are by far an exceptional person. You can see the beauty inside and out. Congratulations on your transformation. Thank you for sharing your transformation with us all. I enjoyed reading about the goats and the roses. Goats can be a pain sometimes and so could chickens. LOL ~Holly
Thank you for sharing your story Sharen. It continues to amaze me each time I meet others who had the same feelings as I did before I started this challenge. It reminds me that I was, am not alone. Also reminds me that there are so many other out there that probably feel like they are alone and do not yet have the tools to make a change....and/or have not made the decision to find the tools to make a change...have not yet been inspired...etc. I get that this is why it's important to share our experiences in hopes that more people will realize they are not alone and be inspired to Be the Change. Thank you again so very much for sharing your story to help inspire us and keep us going.
What a great story. Sharen, you have snapped me into reality with your story. I am in a place where you began your challenge emotionally, mentally and physically. I don't want to be this way anymore. Congratulations on your achievement. God Bless you and your family. Thank you. ~Nikki
Wow! Great Job Sharen!!! You opened up some old wounds for me to comtemplate...thank you for that!
Wow! Everying I have felt but could have never expressed in words. Congratulations Sharen! How true to go through this process and realize that most of this process is an inside job. If everybody would come to this , what a great world we would be in. This world is so consumed with the outside package but what is going on inside with God and your heart and soul is the name of the game! Thank you so much for sharing your story.
Fantastic transformation, so inspiring!
That was so awesome to read and watch! The goats snaggin' the roses was hysterical to me! Sharen you are a beautiful woman, a loving mother and wife...you have a lot to be proud of. God wouldn't have given you those beautiful children if you didn't deserve them. I just love your story. Thanks Bill for sharing this with us.
Weee Haaa! I am celebrating your success with you Sharen! You are so inspiring and your words eloquently written. I have seen time again as a lifecoach that most issues that deal with the physical body (ie. poor health. illness, obesity... to name a few) are always rooted in a spiritual cause. I firmly believe that it will be a GREAT DAY when diet sections in bookstores are filled with books on making skinny souls FAT, rather than fat bodies SKINNY. Thank you Bill and Sharen for sharing this example of how spiritual fitness fosters a physical vibrancy unmatched by anything else! Cheers to your continued success! Rena :+)
Sharen, you look hot!! Great job, you look happy, and I'm sure your family appreciates the major changes you made. Keep on spreading the sunshine which radiates around you. And Bill, you must be so proud of all your "students"...so many of us are making great strides. Your plan to transform America is coming along quite nicely. If you helped ONE person transform, it would be all worth it, but you have transformed quite a few more than one (maybe millions yet?). How does it feel?
Wow! A true inspiration in every sense of the word. No bull just happy Mom and wife I love this side of the work.I want that peace for everyone.The humble attitude towards it all just humbles me even more. Thanks for sharing Bill and Sharen...YOU are a true champion in my eyes.You have grabbed the brass ring.Great work! Dave
Thank you for sharing this with us Bill! I saw alot of myself in her story; especially the part about when she had the talk with her 7 yr old. It was errie...I had the same discussion with my 10 yr old and he said the same thing. Thank you for giving me this gift today! ~Love you...Julie
Sharon, You are what transformation is all about
So powerful to see a regular mom (extraordinary mom) make the changes she needs to lead a well-lived life! I am inspired...Time to really let it shine! Jen :)
Beautiful story, beautiful family and beautiful Transformation. Sharen speaks so honestly to that part of our souls that long to "get it"- She embodies Being the Change and gives us hope for the future. Thank you!
Wow! Hit the nail on the head. This has helped me already. Thank you. Mark
You have done it once again, Bill - I sit at my desk with tears in my eyes - what a beautiful life she has given herself. Your surprising folks like that is fantastic . . . to have absolutely no idea it's gonna happen, and then to have YOU show up at their door - you, the one that has inspired us all, has given us the tools to accomplish this awesome new beginning. Thank you SO much - I am filled with renewed enthusiasm. You are a wonderful coach. Sharen - wonderful transformation - the inside is sparkling - you sure Clarissa hasn't been there sprinklin' on fairy dust? You are an inspiration to us all. Terrie
I love the way we can all relate to Sharen's transformation. I don't think anyone can read her letter without identifying with at least a small part of it. I am so grateful you shared her story with us. Congratulations to Sharen on an amazing journey and finding peace. Love, Melodi
Sharen's letter is the best one I've ever read. Thanks for sharing! PS. Note to Bill - Do not wear clean, white pants when visiting someone on a farm. ha ha!
Sharen, you brought tears happiness to my eyes when I read your story. You are truley an inspiration for anyone who reads it and watches your video. I shall forward it to my 45 yr old daughter (mother of three girls) who is struggling with her weight and some issues in her life. God has really blessed you! Del
Congrats on your successful transformation, many blessings coming your way!
Heart warming story Sharen! You have a beautiful smile and family. You chose this path- you made it happen and now you look like you and your family are reaping all the wonderful benifits! GOOD JOB!
Sharen said, "For too long I allowed the past to define and who I was......this was eating me alive!" Also in the video she mentioned God maybe losing his patience with her. It's amazing how we can all relate in someway to the stories we share about ourselves. It's always amazing how God's forgiveness is unending and how He loves us so much that he never gives up on us. The gift she's given herself and her family and the award she's shared with us to assist our efforts to activate Wacky Wednesday are enormous blessings! From the bottom of my heart and thank and celebrate you. In His Awesome Name, Denise
Fantastic Story. You are a true ambassador to the challenge. You are glowing with goodness and a true inspiration to us all. Thank you for putting into words what i also feel. Life often runs on automatic pilot it's not until something breaks that we take along hard look at our lives,. It takes guts and determination to make the change you did it and you have shown us that the rewards are glorious. God Bless you!!
What a fantastic story - Thank you for sharing your story with us Sharen. You are a very special lady!
Thank you for this transformation story. As others have said, this transformation story hits close to home. All of us need to ask our children what they want to see different in us. I am sure mine would same the same. We let little things upset us for no apparent reason. Thanks Sharen for this insite. I have an assignment to accomplish when I get home from work.
wow-sitting here with tears in the eyes! This story hits so very close to home. Thank you for being so honest-not many are-and sharing w/us the way you did. It brings more hope than you realize. kc
What a beautiful letter.. I loved how Sharen mentioned that her body has given her 3 beautiful children. I also have 3 kiddos.. I am now seeing that I get to honor my body and hold it in a space of love and respect. Thanks Bill for sharing this inspiring story. ~Lori
Awesome story - Awesome Transformation -I love Sharen's Letter - her words come from the heart and seem to be written with a strength of purpose and understanding of herself and the issues she had to face. Congratulations. Well deserved.
Sharen, you are blessed with the gift of being able to express what is in your heart! Your letter to Bill was so wonderfully written. Many people can relate to what you said including myself. Your words reminded me that it is worth the effort to do the work necessary to be and to stay healthy in spirit, mind and body. I am so pleased to know about you and am proud to call you my sister in Christ! Keep up the good work. You are worth it and your children are blessed to have you as a mother! You are a light to the world! Keep shinning , girl! Your story truly touched my heart. Bill picked a gem when he picked you! Becky Southard 2003 BFL Grandma Champ
That was beautiful, it was nice to see her hang in there through all the adversity. God has definitely smiled upon her & her family.
Its amazing how many of the things Sharon wrote about--before being transformed--are similar to things in my life. We probably all can relate in one way or another. It is inspiring to know that she overcame and became the change we needed to see. God Bless!!!
There's alot to be said for just being happy.
Sharen is lovely and real, and makes transformation feel like something I can do too. In many ways she was telling my own story, and it was encouraging to see her results, to see someone furthur down that same road. i am so proud for her and her accomplishment!
Wow, it feels like I am reading about myself. You are a wonderful person Sharen, thank you so much for sharing your story!
Wow! Congrats to you Sharen on your new found purpose and the peace that comes with it!!! Great job on the physical transformation too! Thanks for sharing your experience with everyone. And thanks to you Bill for your commitment to Transformation.
First of all, Sharon, you look life a fitness model to me!...Bill, this is nothing new. I've gotten to know Sharen through the community. She reached out to me and I have enjoyed her company. She is smart, funny and so good lookin'. Humble too, I would have never know she is a crowned champion. Ya did good Bill. -Art
Wow, the last paragraph is exactly what I desperately desire for myself. I have always been waiting for 'conditions' to be right. Wow.
Nice, Sharen. You exude happiness in the video and lots of fun and support on this site. You are a champion - I wanna be like you! Blessings - J`
That's a very inspiring story, you should be very proud. That's just what I needed to read tonight. Keep healthy. Jerryb
Congrats, Thank you for sharing your wonderful success story, it has inspired me very much! By the way you look GREAT!!!
Wonderful story Sharen. It is REAL!
YaHoo Sharen You are the absolute Best! I am so proud of You! Love You! Marty
So as Im sitting here in tears overwhelmed with emotion,I am soooo proud of Sharen...She is an awesome inspiration...Thank you for what you did,so others can see we have hope too...Angela
A beautiful story ~ A beautiful Family ~ An Incredible Transformation! Sharen you are a lovely person and such an inspiration! Thank you for the motivation:)
I also meant to say that I think Sharon did an exceptional job. Wow. I know how hard it is to except our fault, but she did and she fixed it. Congratulations Sharon! A true Champion!
GREAT Story!! I can relate to the part where she speaks about feeling like she didn't deserve her children. After going through infertility treatments for all 3 of my kids, I sure didn't seem to appreciate the blessings given to me. My business took priority, when I was home, I was stressed and exhausted. I didn't want to be bothered with the little things they wanted to do with me. They asked their daddy often, why is mommy so grumpy? All she does is scream all the time. I adored my children, I would lay down and die for them, but my workaholic ways were taking over. I was losing my children. They didn't want to be around that mean, screaming mommy anymore. I was miserable with myself and I made everyone miserable around me. This has been my biggest focus. The main reason I quit smoking was not because of my health, but because I was finding excuses to be away from my kids, so I could go sneak my cigarettes. The story of Denise & Jonnae fixed that for me. It slapped the crap out of me and woke me up and made me realize what a fool I was. I need to cherish every moment, every second I have with these children. So when Sharon speaks about her son's comments, it hit home big time!!! My family preferred i not be around. Now, it is warming my heart because my kids want to be with me. The hugs & kisses, the I love you's. My youngest daughter looking at me, up and down and saying "Wow, mommy you look really good" when she didn't see me for a week, because she was visiting grandma. My older daughter, starting to be influenced to be healthy, because of how I am living now (along with my husbands new desire to be healthy and joining this challenge with me). My son joining in the challenge and doing great. It has taken 2 years, but like Sharon, something in me just finally clicked! I loved this story! We have a mini farm also. I laughed at the goat & rose scene. Thank you for sharing!
Great inspiration. I can relate to so many of your "before" comments. Congratulations on your amazing transformation! Mandy
Honest, natural and real. A true testimony of how healthy the physical, emotional and spiritual life can become with a committed focus. Very inspirational, and moving to see the effect on family relationships. Thank you.
Wow, what a story! Congratulations Sharen! You are an amazing person and had a fantastic transformation. Wow! You look so great, and sound so happy. Beautiful family too ;)
What a beautiful and warm story! Sharen, I am soooo laughing at the goats eating the roses! LOL BLESS YOU my friend, you deserve every single praise! You did an outstanding job with your transformation. Thank you so much for sharing your very personal journey with us and for sharing your friendship.
I remember reading Sharen's essay the first time and I was completely just "blown away" by how she got it as in the spiritual transformation. Today Sharen represents what a true transformation champion is by how she coaches, motivates, and encourages other transformers. Sharen is also a "SuperMom" and she tends to her farm and for that I refer to her as Ellie Mae. ~Love you-Coach
I am sure that my children would echo the comment. I can be very "un" fun. They are old enough now to see that I am not only unhappy, but unhealthy. I really want to show them how to life with joy and purpose. I can see your change reflected in your son's face. How awesome. Talk about home school! May God bless your family, Sharen. Thank you Bill for this inside look. I needed that.
That is truly an amazing story. So many aspects of the story speak to myself and my family. Thank-you Sharen for being an inspiration. Thank-you Bill for choosing such a terrific winner. Lets make it happen! Chris
What a sweet story and a sweet family. Very touching. Watching these stories even strengthens my resolve.....Dude
Wow! Those are powerful words! So much of what Sharen said in her letter is exactly how I've been feeling since I started this transformation challenge! I've lost 35 lbs. of body fat since January 26th but the last six weeks, since starting the transformation challenge my focus has turned to the inside and like Sharen said "I'm happy with my body now". My first 6 months of doing Body For Life I felt like it was a daily struggle to "stay on program" but the last 6 weeks I'm finding it easier and easier to live a healthy lifestyle because I'm LOVING GOD and LIVING and ACTIVE and COMPASSIONATE! I don't feel like I'm trying to live a healthy lifestyle for 12 weeks - I now feel like this is ME and I'm living from the inside out. Thank you for sharing Sharen's words and her story! I love your beautiful family, Sharen! I had a good laugh at the goats eating the roses! Congratulations again, Sharen on finding God and getting Baptized!! Love ya! m'wah! Jan
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