I'm stuck. I feel silly, with the country in such bad shape. But I'm in bad shape too, and I feel awful.
How so?
I feel like I'm a pile of lost potential.
Why lost?
I feel like the good stuff has passed me by.
Really? At 43?
Sounds silly. I just can't see myself getting out of my rut.
What's the rut like?
Well, I'm fat, and no matter what I do I can't lose weight. So on top of everything else - the financial disaster, the fighting all over the world - there's me, a total waste. I can't even run any more.
It would be hard for you to single-handedly fix the economy and create peace in the world.
That's for sure.
But you might be able to single-handedly fix your weight, since it's bothering you so much.
How?
Can you think of any way? Even a small way? Something you can do?
I can't. That's why I'm stuck. But it's so ridiculous. I'm a pretty strong person, and kind of smart. And you're right, I should be able to fix my own life.
I didn't mean you should. I only meant I think you can if you want to.
I haven't been able to.
So what can you do differently?
I could take more time, really think about how I can do it.
That's good.
Maybe that's just what I need: to study my problem, and figure out what would really help me lose weight.
Sounds like a wonderful first step.
It is different. I've always forced myself to go on a diet, without thinking.
I like your new plan. It's fresh and exciting.
It is, isn't it?
