God doesn't make plans for anyone. We have a will and that will is one of choice. We choose to do what we want and must live with the circumstances whether they are positive of negative. We also have a choice to do what ever we want to correct a negative situation, it has nothing to do with God.
Maybe I am naive but who would actually believe such a thing? I had a tummy tuck years ago and it was the best choice I have ever made. It helps me feel comfortable with myself and appreciate who I am.
It's crazy to me that some Christians think that getting this surgery would be AGAINST God's plan, because for me... as a STRONG Christian... this surgery was God's plan for my life. God uses our weaknesses to allow us strengths. If I hadn't been 430lbs I would have no idea to help someone going through the same situation as me, to know what it's like to have the chains broken and really start living.
I totally agree with that! My surgery is scheduled for May 5th, I feel like it is my new Birthday. I am going to actually have the life I so badly desire. It's not going to be easy at all, but very well worth it!
I am not religious at all!!But clearly if god existed i'm pretty sure that he would like to see you live a long and healthy life!And take the mesure you need to get there...I am french by the way sorry if i made mystakes....I love your videos!!
I suppose if I had to be given a label it would be "fundamentalist Christian." Better yet, a fat fundamentalist Christian who is very much looking forward to a gastric bypass.
I also believe Christ healed with his hands, as do surgeons. My Dr.s are gifts from God and I value them very much. I also am very glad I came across these youtubes. The encouragement here is wonderful.
The title caught my attention. Heart surgery, polio vaccinations and the by-pass surgery don't go against God's plan. They're part of it. Hyper-religiosity is a dangerous thing. Christ healed with his hands. We're stuck trying to figure out other ways to do it.
I have to say something. I'm just saying that, God said if it's time to go, it's time to go! I'm not saying don't go to a doctor, I'm saying you should pray about it as well. Don't just rely on doctors. Even if someone says that AJ went against God's plan, he or she surely didn't. My dad almost(or did) get a bypass. So, if anyone goes through that situation, just pray that God will fix it.
God bless you all...(PS this is Danitra's cousin, Cheeze-it)
ok, first of all, the comments on here..??? no wonder you want to do another video! lol! I believe the surgery was created/inspired by God..i believe every step we make forward in science and technology is because He is in us. I believe if the surgery wasn't His plan for me, then He wouldn't have allowed it..that simple. I also believe that He is shaking His head sadly at how we all call on him on both sides of arguments...hugs,jane
I agree with you 100% Taunia. I was lectured by my Dr. at the last visit that if I didn't lose weight and get my cholesterol I was facing a death sentence as well. Some of us have a harder time losing weight than others. Surgery is not the easy way out. There are risks as there are with any surgeries. In my opinion God has given us the knowledge and skill to be able to help people with chronic illnesses and I believe obesity to be a disease. God gave us knowledge to help each other!
Re: "God's plan - god's intent for cancer victims...?"
The perfect example of the "don't play god, if it's your time to die, it's your time to die" mentality is shown in a movie called "Sunshine" by Danny Boyle. Everyone should see this movie.
Re: "Diversity" - Diversity of ideas, thoughts, etc. is great. However, forced diversity is not great. For example, there are schools that will not allow a black child to enroll because their "ratio" requires a certain number of each ethnicity.
He sent His son as the ultimate sacrifice for our sins, ALL of them. We can choose to accept Christ's ransom for us, or we can be eternally separated from God. I think that's where we go wrong. If people REALLY knew what that was like, to be completely separated from PURE LOVE...I think it wouldn't be a decision at all. Who would turn from the only love that is completely and utterly unconditional? That's all I have to say. I just hope you (and everyone else) really understands the TRUTH.
Julia, first...please let me say that I appreciate that you answered this so respectfully, and I hope that I can do the same. The thing is, it is the truth as YOU choose to accept it. The bible itself has been translated into numerous versions and in fact, the *only* untouched "word of God" is actually The Quran, and I'm sure many, many Islamic people would find fault with your beliefs. The point being, we have faith in what we were taught to have faith in, and then choose what is right -cont
we can give meaning to anything- so our perspective is subjective,realitive to the person; to the culture that it is interpeted. There is no one "TRUTH".
juliatalie: Amen. I wonder if people really know the truth? We are not to have any other gods before the TRUE GOD. That is why it always gets me that people pray to idols, statues (i.e. Mary, the saints, Buda, etc.). Very very sad.
Taunia (and a few commentors below), to put this as gently and lovingly as possible, please understand that whether or not you choose to believe that God is as the bible says (in other words, the alpha and omega, beginning and end, and so on and so on) it doesn't change the fact that it is the ultimate truth. God created the heavens and the earth and all of mankind. It is because of this creation that we are able to "evolve" as you say. He has given us a choice. And it is very real.
(cont) choose what is right for us. Religion IS man-made, God and pure love is not....we can agree there. We (all people) were raised and taught to believe different truths and neither of us can truly know which is the real truth. We can only have faith and trust that we are placing that faith in what's right and true. My only issue is when someone insists their religion and "word of God" justifies judgement and prejudice...and that applies to ANY religion. Thank you for your thoughts :)
gd2341: That is very very sad. People that say they do not "subscribe" to "RELIGION" say so because they do not want to be held accountable to anything. It's a way to excuse what they want to do, say, think or feel.
people always say you choose the easy way out with wls but I didn't choose it because it was easy I chose it because I wanted to live. My liver was shutting down I am 41 and disabled I take 14 meds a day so how is trying to save my life an easy way out I'm so glad for your videos I had my surgery on dec 1 2008 and I have lost 24 lbs You and the other ones making videos are what opened my eyes thank you for all you say in your videos
Wow...TheMaskedOpinion...God must be telling you to be an ignorant, prejudice fool...because you certainly are conforming to that! God is LOVE, period. No sex, no judgement...judgement is what PEOPLE do. Great video, Taunia. I am praying for you TheMaskedOpinion. xo peace.
also, thanks for sharing your journey with us-- i love your videos and have started my own now, i hope to be successful like you!!! i am in a different place being that i am not a surgery patient, but the journey has the same lumps and bumps no matter how we kick it off!! have a blessed Christmas with your family and may it be full of love!! =)
and so i think more of the virgin mary. however, it is a very personal choice. more and more women are moving toward thinking of a female spirit and worshiping a goddess. do i have feminist tendencies-- hell ya. and i thank you for your sensitivity and just had to respond to that uneducated persons comment. i just finished a feminist christian doctrine class so i guess that is why it struck me bc i just finished a semester studying the oppressive patriarchal society we live in-- like it or not
Taunia-- please disregard what TheMaskedOpinion said. i know that you are used to all this but i read that comment and it made my blood boil. I am so thankful to you and have so much respect for you for calling God a man or woman. I think that we need to remember that the male image is not positive for all people and to require that they think of their loving God in that image my not be right for them. I personally have never been able to identify with a male God
God's plan was not only to give you a superb singing voice but to give you a strong and articulate speaking voice to express your passionate and intelligent views. Isn't God great? : )
God is NOT a SHE! God does NOT conform to what YOU want, need and expect. WE are to conform and do what God expects of us. God is a loving God, but is also a God that deserves RESPECT, and is to be adored and worshipped. I am offended that you would blaspheme His name saying HE/SHE. By doing gastric bypass surgery -- you are, in essence, saying that God is not strong enough to help you fight your food addiction demons. God made our bodies and has our organs where they are for a REASON!
Lastly, just because you are feeling okay now....eventually it will catch up with you and unfortunately will have to pay the price for messing with God's perfect design (the body he blessed you with). The statistics for complications from GBS are pretty high after the first year. Don't blame God if you get sick down the road...
Wow, you are scary! What are you doing on this channel? We are a here to support each other while getting healthy. It really is none of your business what choices we make. We do not want your opinions or your freaky fire and brimestone God talk. You are a perfect example of the type of person we were talking about in the beginning of this thread. Look to yourself and to your own house. I'm sure you no doubt have a few things to take care of in your life. Careful, your disfunction is showing.
I of course am talking to Themaskedopinion. Mary, the Mother Earth Goddess thats who I pray to. Thats who I feel a kinship with. She represents all women, mothers, sisters. Vanessa :)
TheMaskedOpinion, An entity (such as God)has no form with sex or gender. Many people/cultures have various interpetations with Goddesses, or have several Gods AND Goddesses. You are going to say that they are wrong and YOU are right? Don't be ignorant.
To begin with, Scripture contains almost 170 references to God as the Father. By necessity, one cannot be a father unless he is male. If God had chosen to be revealed to man in a female form, then the word mother would have occurred in these places, not father. In the Old and New Testament both, masculine pronouns are used over and over again in reference to God.
Jesus Christ referred to God as the Father several times, and in other cases used masculine pronouns in reference to God. In the Gospels alone, Christ uses the term Father in direct reference to God nearly 160 times. Of particular interest is Christs statement in John 10:30.
He says here, I and [my] Father are one. Obviously, Jesus Christ came in the form of a human man to die on the cross as payment for the sins of the world, and, like God the Father, was revealed to mankind in a male form. Scripture records numerous other instances where Christ utilized masculine nouns and pronouns in reference to God.
The New Testament Epistles (from Acts to Revelation) also contain nearly 900 verses where the word theos—a masculine noun in the Greek—is used in direct reference to God. In most cases, this is rendered God in English versions.
First off, you obviously didn't read the rest of my message. Many cultures have different interpetations and have Godesses AND Gods, so You, oh great ignorant one, are saying that everyone else in the world is wrong and YOU are right? this is why we have war, open your conformist mind. If something like this chicks video is causing you this much offense then there is something else that needs to be examined (YOU)!
do you exercise and if so what do you do? you look so great! I am not losing the weight as fast as some others and i am trying to do something different
Just before I started trying to get healthy I was seriously researching WLS, because I did want "the easy way out." But, like you said, I learned that WLS is not easy. And, like you said, you still have to diet & exercise. There is not magic pill or anything else. If you want to loose weight, you have to fight for it. Nothing in life worthwhile comes easily.
you make a point here that i've made many times before. the bible was written for a society totally different then ours - if the bible was written now i think it would be radically different.
you haven't offended me. i agree on everything other than pro-choice (i asuem you mean abortion) either way though i don't know how the video could possibly offend someone :) merry christmas
From one of the uninformed, your right its a medical tool to facilate a healthy lifestyle. I still wonder about long term result for WLS and if its more successful than maximum 6 to 9 percent success rate re conventional dieting re: keeping weight off. Re: religion I'll shall keep my mouth firmly closed (as a non believer) Hugs and good stuff to all commentators. Enjoy the holidays whatever you believe.:D
Taunia... You, or anyone, could not have said it better. You touched every point that needed to touched. I fully agree with every word that came out of your mouth! LOL You're DA BOMB!!
I love what you said. It touches on soo many points that I agree with. Look at nature, the more diverse nature is, it is more healthy and sustainable.
When people have WLS it is usually after much thought and consideration. Those who are REALLY interested in "God's plan" are going to be supportive of those who are hurting and at the end of their proverbial rope. WLS surgery is a last resort for most after they have tried everything. God's people are loving and supportive first and foremost. People who criticize others in the name of God are clueless. God truly is LOVE.
Thank you, thank you and thank you! Hearing someone say exactly what is on my mind really helps confirm that I have not totally lost grasp with reality! :D thanks!
Amen. Not sure how this could have been controversial. It's a well-known fact that some people have used religion to justify all kinds of oppression, including slavery. I'm religious, but being religious doesn't have to mean being a hater!
I agree with you on the education front, and I'm hoping there are some things some of us in the WLS community could do together, in addition to educating our friends and families. I'm going to work on stuff and post more videos about options soon.
I have to admire those who have made the courageous choice to have weight loss surgery. It is as an action taken toward extreme self care. It involves hard work and committment. Embracing innovation and technology can improve our lives so why close ourselves off to amazing things by limiting our view to only 'ancient' knowledge? New discoveries and innovations are even yet to come! My response to astounding comments such as AJ's customer is usually "How fascinating you feel that way."
Religion. So many stumble over that word. I prefer to view my faith in God, not as having religion, but as having a relationship with Him. I find Scripture to be alive, and poignant to life today. It is the Living Word of God, and it speaks to very aspect of life, in every time - then, now, and in the future. In my studies of Scripture I find how much God loves us and wants to communicate to each one of us personally. Knowledge is not the same as wisdom.
Scripture wasn't always that way for me. I thought it was made my man, to keep us under his thumb, rules and regulations that do not apply to us today. But then I started studying, and learning, and allowing God's Holy Spirit to speak to my heart and open up the possibility that God was communicating to me personally.
YAY!! I am so glad you said it!! Religion??? Not God!! Having a personal relationship with Him is all you need. I am sorry that people are so uninformmed and "refuse" to research the WORD OF GOD as they research other things. I tell people who dog me for wanting the surgery to talk to me about it when you have researched it like I have; then we can talk; same, same with God. Religion is based on "ceremony" God is Love.
I Agree, it is definately hard work. WLS is just a tool and you still have to work your ass off dieting and excercising. I didn't understand it b4 and now I do because im going through it now. Great Video!
BRAVO!!! I couldn't have said it better myself. I tend to flash, so here it comes. I believe God is the goodness and love in all things.There is definitely evil and I personally believe that the mean spirited, bible toting, psalm spewing, entitled few are teetering on the dark ledge of hypocrisy. Please believe in god, be a good christian, be kind to others, help the weak and less fortunate, and love ALL PEOPLE, just please leave your bigotry at home. vanessa :) P.S.13yrs in Catholic Schools
This is a great response! Very well spoken. I agree with surgery definately not being the "easy way out." It's, as you know, a VERY HARD decision to come to once you have been faced with it being your true last resort. Have a great holiday! Amy
You too are well spoken. That was great. I can't imagine you offended anyone there but then again, I appreciate your perspective and have similar views.
Here's my take on this subject: WLS is a personal choice. No one has the right to judge others based on their decision to have it, or their reasons for having it. If you believe it would be against your religion to have WLS, don't have it. No one is forcing you. We all know that their are many religions and we don't all agree, so don't expect others to live according to YOUR religious beliefs. Concentrate on living according to your beliefs and leave others to theirs.
This was not a controversial video at. It is your opinion, and I happen to agree with it. I believe in God But I do NOT believe in religion. Thanks for making the video! Have a great week!
Exactly .. well said. If you had another disease people would not give a second thought. Many don't understand that obesity is a disease. That is what needs to be addressed. I know some one that put sand & weights in her pockets to get the surgery. I was horrified that she admitted to me. But everyone has to make a choice for themselves. I am so gratiful that I live in a time that medical research has come so far! What a blessing!
You know that I use to think that surgery was the "easy way out." But after taking some psychology courses, I figured out that sometimes food can be an obsession and because of many life situations it can become an outlet for those who are really overweight. It's SOOOO hard to loose 10 pounds but so easy to gain them.
I like your idea on the "religious aspect" of it. Religion is MAN MADE and believing that there is a God- we all have our own views of who our God is.
However, I believe that it is controversial to say okay with pro-choice and then say that God doesn't want anyone of us to die. Are you demeaning the worth of the child or "fetus" (which they like to call it.) Wouldn't they deserve to live too? There are just so many more options to give a child then just decide to kill it.
I like how you said God gave us tools and knowledge on science. I think people should think like that more often. I'm so glad that you chose life. You're an inspiration.
I can completely understand your point here - and it's a good one. However, I don't necessarily believe in abortion, I believe in choice. I believe there are situations (including rape,incest, etc) that make an incredibly difficult decision like that necessary. I believe strongly in women's rights, and I strongly believe God gave us free will for a reason - and choice with one's own body is part of that free will. I agree with you that there's many options to consider first before that. :)
I understand with the situations of incest , rape...but the choice to mess around with someone elses' life, just because of the circumstance that person is in? Do you get what point I'm trying to make ? I hope so :]
I do understand what you're saying, and I definitely see where you're coming from and why you feel the way you do. I don't entirely disagree with it, I just feel like those situations aren't black and white, and there's too many factors to have a black and white yes/no answer. I appreciate you talking about it so respectfully, and I love ya too, girl! :)
God doesn't make plans for anyone. We have a will and that will is one of choice. We choose to do what we want and must live with the circumstances whether they are positive of negative. We also have a choice to do what ever we want to correct a negative situation, it has nothing to do with God.
Maybe I am naive but who would actually believe such a thing? I had a tummy tuck years ago and it was the best choice I have ever made. It helps me feel comfortable with myself and appreciate who I am.
carmy60 8 months ago
It's crazy to me that some Christians think that getting this surgery would be AGAINST God's plan, because for me... as a STRONG Christian... this surgery was God's plan for my life. God uses our weaknesses to allow us strengths. If I hadn't been 430lbs I would have no idea to help someone going through the same situation as me, to know what it's like to have the chains broken and really start living.
Ellewilliams 1 year ago
Cherry pickers of religion. Then birth control, processed food, cars, all mess with god's plan- they were created by people.
YOU look great diva
mompm 1 year ago
I totally agree with that! My surgery is scheduled for May 5th, I feel like it is my new Birthday. I am going to actually have the life I so badly desire. It's not going to be easy at all, but very well worth it!
msluchini28 1 year ago
I am not religious at all!!But clearly if god existed i'm pretty sure that he would like to see you live a long and healthy life!And take the mesure you need to get there...I am french by the way sorry if i made mystakes....I love your videos!!
RiPcOrDz83 2 years ago
Good video!! You explained yourself very well!
carirenae 2 years ago
I liked this video so much.
Linda
AwesomeForever 3 years ago
Thanks for this video!
I have some Christian friends who have told me the surgery is not God's plan and blah...blah...
DestinationOC 3 years ago
I suppose if I had to be given a label it would be "fundamentalist Christian." Better yet, a fat fundamentalist Christian who is very much looking forward to a gastric bypass.
I also believe Christ healed with his hands, as do surgeons. My Dr.s are gifts from God and I value them very much. I also am very glad I came across these youtubes. The encouragement here is wonderful.
be2lewis 3 years ago
i am God incarnated
LascarAlexandru 3 years ago
The title caught my attention. Heart surgery, polio vaccinations and the by-pass surgery don't go against God's plan. They're part of it. Hyper-religiosity is a dangerous thing. Christ healed with his hands. We're stuck trying to figure out other ways to do it.
nightshade1973 3 years ago
Hello,
I have to say something. I'm just saying that, God said if it's time to go, it's time to go! I'm not saying don't go to a doctor, I'm saying you should pray about it as well. Don't just rely on doctors. Even if someone says that AJ went against God's plan, he or she surely didn't. My dad almost(or did) get a bypass. So, if anyone goes through that situation, just pray that God will fix it.
God bless you all...(PS this is Danitra's cousin, Cheeze-it)
Danitra17 3 years ago
As always, great video! :) I agree, God has given us scientest who have come up with some outstanding research. I for one, am truly greatful.
meltingmamma 3 years ago
ok, first of all, the comments on here..??? no wonder you want to do another video! lol! I believe the surgery was created/inspired by God..i believe every step we make forward in science and technology is because He is in us. I believe if the surgery wasn't His plan for me, then He wouldn't have allowed it..that simple. I also believe that He is shaking His head sadly at how we all call on him on both sides of arguments...hugs,jane
MissJanieHere 3 years ago
You've got a heart of gold. Excellent video, dear one. You are helping many, many, many. Keep up the good work.
ParadiseFound17 3 years ago
Great Video, thanks for sharing your opinion and saying it so respectfully.
CarvMyBody 3 years ago
I agree with you 100% Taunia. I was lectured by my Dr. at the last visit that if I didn't lose weight and get my cholesterol I was facing a death sentence as well. Some of us have a harder time losing weight than others. Surgery is not the easy way out. There are risks as there are with any surgeries. In my opinion God has given us the knowledge and skill to be able to help people with chronic illnesses and I believe obesity to be a disease. God gave us knowledge to help each other!
stonesfanatik 3 years ago
Re: "God's plan - god's intent for cancer victims...?"
The perfect example of the "don't play god, if it's your time to die, it's your time to die" mentality is shown in a movie called "Sunshine" by Danny Boyle. Everyone should see this movie.
Re: "Diversity" - Diversity of ideas, thoughts, etc. is great. However, forced diversity is not great. For example, there are schools that will not allow a black child to enroll because their "ratio" requires a certain number of each ethnicity.
mikalgurry 3 years ago
Here Here!! I wish I could have said it that well... You certainly could'nt have offended anyone, Your words were eloquent and based on truth.
Thank You
Hugggggs
Sherry
ta2swb 3 years ago
AMEN Sister!
lbg77giggles 3 years ago
He sent His son as the ultimate sacrifice for our sins, ALL of them. We can choose to accept Christ's ransom for us, or we can be eternally separated from God. I think that's where we go wrong. If people REALLY knew what that was like, to be completely separated from PURE LOVE...I think it wouldn't be a decision at all. Who would turn from the only love that is completely and utterly unconditional? That's all I have to say. I just hope you (and everyone else) really understands the TRUTH.
juliatalie 3 years ago 2
Julia, first...please let me say that I appreciate that you answered this so respectfully, and I hope that I can do the same. The thing is, it is the truth as YOU choose to accept it. The bible itself has been translated into numerous versions and in fact, the *only* untouched "word of God" is actually The Quran, and I'm sure many, many Islamic people would find fault with your beliefs. The point being, we have faith in what we were taught to have faith in, and then choose what is right -cont
divataunia 3 years ago
@divataunia
I'm Muslim and agree with this comment divatuania, especially the part about the Quran being the only untouched "word of God"
i love open minded educated people
vickinicole 1 year ago
we can give meaning to anything- so our perspective is subjective,realitive to the person; to the culture that it is interpeted. There is no one "TRUTH".
ssweetstang64 3 years ago
juliatalie: Amen. I wonder if people really know the truth? We are not to have any other gods before the TRUE GOD. That is why it always gets me that people pray to idols, statues (i.e. Mary, the saints, Buda, etc.). Very very sad.
TheMaskedOpinion 3 years ago
Taunia (and a few commentors below), to put this as gently and lovingly as possible, please understand that whether or not you choose to believe that God is as the bible says (in other words, the alpha and omega, beginning and end, and so on and so on) it doesn't change the fact that it is the ultimate truth. God created the heavens and the earth and all of mankind. It is because of this creation that we are able to "evolve" as you say. He has given us a choice. And it is very real.
juliatalie 3 years ago
(cont) choose what is right for us. Religion IS man-made, God and pure love is not....we can agree there. We (all people) were raised and taught to believe different truths and neither of us can truly know which is the real truth. We can only have faith and trust that we are placing that faith in what's right and true. My only issue is when someone insists their religion and "word of God" justifies judgement and prejudice...and that applies to ANY religion. Thank you for your thoughts :)
divataunia 3 years ago
I agree..
This is my quote for people who push God ("religion")
"It is said that men may not be the dream of god, but rather that god is the dream of men"
Merry Xmas!
gd2341 3 years ago
gd2341: That is very very sad. People that say they do not "subscribe" to "RELIGION" say so because they do not want to be held accountable to anything. It's a way to excuse what they want to do, say, think or feel.
TheMaskedOpinion 3 years ago
You amaze me! Thank you for being you!
sharber22 3 years ago
people always say you choose the easy way out with wls but I didn't choose it because it was easy I chose it because I wanted to live. My liver was shutting down I am 41 and disabled I take 14 meds a day so how is trying to save my life an easy way out I'm so glad for your videos I had my surgery on dec 1 2008 and I have lost 24 lbs You and the other ones making videos are what opened my eyes thank you for all you say in your videos
missyortiz 3 years ago
Wow...TheMaskedOpinion...God must be telling you to be an ignorant, prejudice fool...because you certainly are conforming to that! God is LOVE, period. No sex, no judgement...judgement is what PEOPLE do. Great video, Taunia. I am praying for you TheMaskedOpinion. xo peace.
nessamaine 3 years ago
Read what I have written above and thank you for your prayers...we ALL need them. :D
TheMaskedOpinion 3 years ago
Nessamaine: NOW look who is "judging"
TheMaskedOpinion 3 years ago
ummm, yes...i did that on purpose, glad you caught on to it...LOL...sigh. still praying for you to open your mind and heart. peace.
nessamaine 3 years ago
also, thanks for sharing your journey with us-- i love your videos and have started my own now, i hope to be successful like you!!! i am in a different place being that i am not a surgery patient, but the journey has the same lumps and bumps no matter how we kick it off!! have a blessed Christmas with your family and may it be full of love!! =)
thestinethatcan 3 years ago
and so i think more of the virgin mary. however, it is a very personal choice. more and more women are moving toward thinking of a female spirit and worshiping a goddess. do i have feminist tendencies-- hell ya. and i thank you for your sensitivity and just had to respond to that uneducated persons comment. i just finished a feminist christian doctrine class so i guess that is why it struck me bc i just finished a semester studying the oppressive patriarchal society we live in-- like it or not
thestinethatcan 3 years ago
Taunia-- please disregard what TheMaskedOpinion said. i know that you are used to all this but i read that comment and it made my blood boil. I am so thankful to you and have so much respect for you for calling God a man or woman. I think that we need to remember that the male image is not positive for all people and to require that they think of their loving God in that image my not be right for them. I personally have never been able to identify with a male God
thestinethatcan 3 years ago
God's plan was not only to give you a superb singing voice but to give you a strong and articulate speaking voice to express your passionate and intelligent views. Isn't God great? : )
TheShrinkingShrink 3 years ago
God is NOT a SHE! God does NOT conform to what YOU want, need and expect. WE are to conform and do what God expects of us. God is a loving God, but is also a God that deserves RESPECT, and is to be adored and worshipped. I am offended that you would blaspheme His name saying HE/SHE. By doing gastric bypass surgery -- you are, in essence, saying that God is not strong enough to help you fight your food addiction demons. God made our bodies and has our organs where they are for a REASON!
TheMaskedOpinion 3 years ago
Lastly, just because you are feeling okay now....eventually it will catch up with you and unfortunately will have to pay the price for messing with God's perfect design (the body he blessed you with). The statistics for complications from GBS are pretty high after the first year. Don't blame God if you get sick down the road...
TheMaskedOpinion 3 years ago
I'll have a video response to this.
divataunia 3 years ago
Hey...TheMaskedOpinion...
Opinion are like A-holes..everyone has one and the usually stink. Your's...more than most. Merry Christmas!!!
NashuaRob 3 years ago
Wow, you are scary! What are you doing on this channel? We are a here to support each other while getting healthy. It really is none of your business what choices we make. We do not want your opinions or your freaky fire and brimestone God talk. You are a perfect example of the type of person we were talking about in the beginning of this thread. Look to yourself and to your own house. I'm sure you no doubt have a few things to take care of in your life. Careful, your disfunction is showing.
septembergirl54 3 years ago
I of course am talking to Themaskedopinion. Mary, the Mother Earth Goddess thats who I pray to. Thats who I feel a kinship with. She represents all women, mothers, sisters. Vanessa :)
septembergirl54 3 years ago
Dude, I thought Christians always said "Don't put God in a box" ? Isn't Gender a box?
Janiethegeek 3 years ago 2
uhh i don't know why this is showing up on the reply to taunia, this was to themaskedopinion...who is obviously not masked, lol. anyway, take care :)
Janiethegeek 3 years ago
TheMaskedOpinion, An entity (such as God)has no form with sex or gender. Many people/cultures have various interpetations with Goddesses, or have several Gods AND Goddesses. You are going to say that they are wrong and YOU are right? Don't be ignorant.
ssweetstang64 3 years ago
To begin with, Scripture contains almost 170 references to God as the Father. By necessity, one cannot be a father unless he is male. If God had chosen to be revealed to man in a female form, then the word mother would have occurred in these places, not father. In the Old and New Testament both, masculine pronouns are used over and over again in reference to God.
TheMaskedOpinion 3 years ago
Jesus Christ referred to God as the Father several times, and in other cases used masculine pronouns in reference to God. In the Gospels alone, Christ uses the term Father in direct reference to God nearly 160 times. Of particular interest is Christs statement in John 10:30.
TheMaskedOpinion 3 years ago
He says here, I and [my] Father are one. Obviously, Jesus Christ came in the form of a human man to die on the cross as payment for the sins of the world, and, like God the Father, was revealed to mankind in a male form. Scripture records numerous other instances where Christ utilized masculine nouns and pronouns in reference to God.
TheMaskedOpinion 3 years ago
The New Testament Epistles (from Acts to Revelation) also contain nearly 900 verses where the word theos—a masculine noun in the Greek—is used in direct reference to God. In most cases, this is rendered God in English versions.
TheMaskedOpinion 3 years ago
First off, you obviously didn't read the rest of my message. Many cultures have different interpetations and have Godesses AND Gods, so You, oh great ignorant one, are saying that everyone else in the world is wrong and YOU are right? this is why we have war, open your conformist mind. If something like this chicks video is causing you this much offense then there is something else that needs to be examined (YOU)!
ssweetstang64 3 years ago
do you exercise and if so what do you do? you look so great! I am not losing the weight as fast as some others and i am trying to do something different
goodnplenty2468 3 years ago
Just before I started trying to get healthy I was seriously researching WLS, because I did want "the easy way out." But, like you said, I learned that WLS is not easy. And, like you said, you still have to diet & exercise. There is not magic pill or anything else. If you want to loose weight, you have to fight for it. Nothing in life worthwhile comes easily.
kristea0337 3 years ago
Why did you remove my comments?
YogiUToo 3 years ago
I didn't...they're up a few....there's two of yours. Do you not see them?
divataunia 3 years ago
I must hiccuped, when looking from them. LOL Thanks!
YogiUToo 3 years ago
you make a point here that i've made many times before. the bible was written for a society totally different then ours - if the bible was written now i think it would be radically different.
you haven't offended me. i agree on everything other than pro-choice (i asuem you mean abortion) either way though i don't know how the video could possibly offend someone :) merry christmas
roadofimprovement 3 years ago 2
You are too pretty!...I have watched your videos from day one and wow I'm so amazed at your transformation.You Rock!
IZW28 3 years ago
From one of the uninformed, your right its a medical tool to facilate a healthy lifestyle. I still wonder about long term result for WLS and if its more successful than maximum 6 to 9 percent success rate re conventional dieting re: keeping weight off. Re: religion I'll shall keep my mouth firmly closed (as a non believer) Hugs and good stuff to all commentators. Enjoy the holidays whatever you believe.:D
SMoldie 3 years ago
Totally agree! Well said! Merry Christmas. Love your videos!
Debz173 3 years ago
FANTASTIC TAUNIA! BEST VIDEO EVER! You TARGETED THIS PERFECT. AJ Handles the situation with CLASS! BTW BLUE IS YOUR COLOR! Best Wishes! Kristy
TTCafterRNY 3 years ago
I love your openness and the way you express yourself. Good job at explaining yourself Taunia!
mywlsjourney 3 years ago
Taunia... You, or anyone, could not have said it better. You touched every point that needed to touched. I fully agree with every word that came out of your mouth! LOL You're DA BOMB!!
SarahWillBeSkinny 3 years ago
Well said, bravo! You look gorgeous, blue is your color!!! Monica
Texaslovely99 3 years ago
You said this better than anyone could have and thank you for standing up to the ignorance Taunia. Sal
pinksweatergal 3 years ago
Right on! well said love!
Darcy xoxoxoxo
melitriotcancan 3 years ago
I love what you said. It touches on soo many points that I agree with. Look at nature, the more diverse nature is, it is more healthy and sustainable.
PS you look fabulous!
space8024 3 years ago
Great response and you look amazing!
Donna:)
Journey2betrhealth 3 years ago
When people have WLS it is usually after much thought and consideration. Those who are REALLY interested in "God's plan" are going to be supportive of those who are hurting and at the end of their proverbial rope. WLS surgery is a last resort for most after they have tried everything. God's people are loving and supportive first and foremost. People who criticize others in the name of God are clueless. God truly is LOVE.
It frustrates me too. Good video.
~Your friendly Christian Republican <3
ActionWords 3 years ago
Well said taunia! You're very cool.
thanks.
stephselix 3 years ago
Well said:)I agree..
Julsinmaine101 3 years ago
Thank you, thank you and thank you! Hearing someone say exactly what is on my mind really helps confirm that I have not totally lost grasp with reality! :D thanks!
watchmegetskinny 3 years ago
No controversy here - well said, lady!
katiejuly 3 years ago
Amen. Not sure how this could have been controversial. It's a well-known fact that some people have used religion to justify all kinds of oppression, including slavery. I'm religious, but being religious doesn't have to mean being a hater!
I agree with you on the education front, and I'm hoping there are some things some of us in the WLS community could do together, in addition to educating our friends and families. I'm going to work on stuff and post more videos about options soon.
molawed 3 years ago
Very well spoken reponse. take care - jenn
weightnC 3 years ago
Well said. I couldn't agree more! Rebecca
CreationofClay 3 years ago
Brava, Diva T!
well said!
Aviva
AJC0402 3 years ago
I have to admire those who have made the courageous choice to have weight loss surgery. It is as an action taken toward extreme self care. It involves hard work and committment. Embracing innovation and technology can improve our lives so why close ourselves off to amazing things by limiting our view to only 'ancient' knowledge? New discoveries and innovations are even yet to come! My response to astounding comments such as AJ's customer is usually "How fascinating you feel that way."
mia2292 3 years ago
Well said T!
playboysgirl08 3 years ago
Religion. So many stumble over that word. I prefer to view my faith in God, not as having religion, but as having a relationship with Him. I find Scripture to be alive, and poignant to life today. It is the Living Word of God, and it speaks to very aspect of life, in every time - then, now, and in the future. In my studies of Scripture I find how much God loves us and wants to communicate to each one of us personally. Knowledge is not the same as wisdom.
YogiUToo 3 years ago 2
Scripture wasn't always that way for me. I thought it was made my man, to keep us under his thumb, rules and regulations that do not apply to us today. But then I started studying, and learning, and allowing God's Holy Spirit to speak to my heart and open up the possibility that God was communicating to me personally.
YogiUToo 3 years ago 2
YAY!! I am so glad you said it!! Religion??? Not God!! Having a personal relationship with Him is all you need. I am sorry that people are so uninformmed and "refuse" to research the WORD OF GOD as they research other things. I tell people who dog me for wanting the surgery to talk to me about it when you have researched it like I have; then we can talk; same, same with God. Religion is based on "ceremony" God is Love.
nanciannaj 3 years ago
I Agree, it is definately hard work. WLS is just a tool and you still have to work your ass off dieting and excercising. I didn't understand it b4 and now I do because im going through it now. Great Video!
skymoon1982 3 years ago
BRAVO!!! I couldn't have said it better myself. I tend to flash, so here it comes. I believe God is the goodness and love in all things.There is definitely evil and I personally believe that the mean spirited, bible toting, psalm spewing, entitled few are teetering on the dark ledge of hypocrisy. Please believe in god, be a good christian, be kind to others, help the weak and less fortunate, and love ALL PEOPLE, just please leave your bigotry at home. vanessa :) P.S.13yrs in Catholic Schools
septembergirl54 3 years ago
This is a great response! Very well spoken. I agree with surgery definately not being the "easy way out." It's, as you know, a VERY HARD decision to come to once you have been faced with it being your true last resort. Have a great holiday! Amy
wdsDarlin 3 years ago
Very well said! I agree with you totally on all issues.
wildheart5 3 years ago
Very nicely put. Yay!
nanananabhappy 3 years ago
You too are well spoken. That was great. I can't imagine you offended anyone there but then again, I appreciate your perspective and have similar views.
Nicely done. Hugs Shannon
slcinoz 3 years ago
hey hun! great video!>XOXOXO
dmerkle5 3 years ago
Here's my take on this subject: WLS is a personal choice. No one has the right to judge others based on their decision to have it, or their reasons for having it. If you believe it would be against your religion to have WLS, don't have it. No one is forcing you. We all know that their are many religions and we don't all agree, so don't expect others to live according to YOUR religious beliefs. Concentrate on living according to your beliefs and leave others to theirs.
kirbybl 3 years ago
This was not a controversial video at. It is your opinion, and I happen to agree with it. I believe in God But I do NOT believe in religion. Thanks for making the video! Have a great week!
SherryLuka 3 years ago
Exactly .. well said. If you had another disease people would not give a second thought. Many don't understand that obesity is a disease. That is what needs to be addressed. I know some one that put sand & weights in her pockets to get the surgery. I was horrified that she admitted to me. But everyone has to make a choice for themselves. I am so gratiful that I live in a time that medical research has come so far! What a blessing!
OMCV04 3 years ago
You know that I use to think that surgery was the "easy way out." But after taking some psychology courses, I figured out that sometimes food can be an obsession and because of many life situations it can become an outlet for those who are really overweight. It's SOOOO hard to loose 10 pounds but so easy to gain them.
I like your idea on the "religious aspect" of it. Religion is MAN MADE and believing that there is a God- we all have our own views of who our God is.
smexiebinks 3 years ago
However, I believe that it is controversial to say okay with pro-choice and then say that God doesn't want anyone of us to die. Are you demeaning the worth of the child or "fetus" (which they like to call it.) Wouldn't they deserve to live too? There are just so many more options to give a child then just decide to kill it.
I like how you said God gave us tools and knowledge on science. I think people should think like that more often. I'm so glad that you chose life. You're an inspiration.
smexiebinks 3 years ago
I can completely understand your point here - and it's a good one. However, I don't necessarily believe in abortion, I believe in choice. I believe there are situations (including rape,incest, etc) that make an incredibly difficult decision like that necessary. I believe strongly in women's rights, and I strongly believe God gave us free will for a reason - and choice with one's own body is part of that free will. I agree with you that there's many options to consider first before that. :)
divataunia 3 years ago
I understand with the situations of incest , rape...but the choice to mess around with someone elses' life, just because of the circumstance that person is in? Do you get what point I'm trying to make ? I hope so :]
Love you anyways, have a good one!
smexiebinks 3 years ago
I do understand what you're saying, and I definitely see where you're coming from and why you feel the way you do. I don't entirely disagree with it, I just feel like those situations aren't black and white, and there's too many factors to have a black and white yes/no answer. I appreciate you talking about it so respectfully, and I love ya too, girl! :)
divataunia 3 years ago