http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/health/super-size-me-when-bloggers-approve-and-glorify-obesity/article1534783/
I have no idea how to turn the above website into a link but this is scary. I came across this article randomly and I actually wanted to cry. People who are obese are almost glorifying the feeling of being “soft” and out of shape, the feeling of being so full. What bothered me was one Canadian blogger who claimed to be 550lbs. I completely believe in the medicare system that Canada has but to me, this seems like an abuse of the system. Here I am, working my butt off (literally and figuratively) to be healthy…and this woman is setting herself up for a heart attack, stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure etc…and our taxes are the same…This is painful. Again, I’m not knocking the medicare system but I hate the abuse of a social benefit.
I understand that it is so much easier to be bigger…especially when you’re just larger. I don’t mean it’s psychologically easier or “world” easier but it’s easier. When I go to a restaurant, I panic a little bit…and order a salad (no dressing). When I think about going a day without exercising, sometimes I worry that I’m sinking back into a habit. Here’s the thing…I have brought myself up…worked on myself, made myself better…and you know what, I like myself better!!! If I let myself slip back, I’d be disappointed…if I were 55lbs heavier, I wouldn’t have anything to be disappointed in. That’s where I think it would be easier. It’s easier to not worry…to not think what if?
My “what if’s” go even further. I have been very adamant about not wanting children. Part of it is because I’m scared of that level of commitment with anyone (including my husband), I’m scared of giving a child a life of bipolar disorder and anxiety attacks, and I’m very scared of gaining a ton of weight. I am okay being called shallow…I’m not a kid person anyways…and I understand why other people want/like children but it’s hard for me to justify.
This is the first time in my life that I look in the mirror and LIKE what I see. It’s the first time I feel pretty and enjoy my body…not just criticize it. I know that this article isn’t bringing up all these insecurities but it’s easy to start thinking…and I do a lot of that.
BTW, I went for a run tonight…(well sorta a walk/run)…and love it…my knees are a bit sore but it feels wonderful to be out in the cool air, the night sky and my Ipod (a dieters best friend) just going at my own pace. Hopefully, I will have time to keep walking in university. I’m sure going to try!! G’night!
-Sam
