Are you concerned about fat? Specifically the fat attached to your body?

 

I’m going to guess the answer is, “yes.” Right this moment, my stats tell me my post, The Fatties Are Coming, has been viewed 154 times just today.

 

That post reported on the study that most people found a woman’s size 12 body far more attractive than the idealized size 6. (And overwhelmingly more attractive than the Hollywood-dream size 0!)

 

Not long ago I ran across the photos of the famed before and after Photoshop. Today I saw a blurb about Faith Hill traveling with her family without makeup, practically unrecognizable. I was fascinated.

 

We are obsessed with fat, attractiveness, and image.

 

I don’t know about you, but I don’t like my obsession. It makes me confront the ugly of my own prejudice.

 

I watch the Biggest Loser on t.v. and thank my stars I’ve never had to struggle with obesity. But, even with the recognition I’ve been able to keep my weight within the “healthy” range for the majority of my life, I must confess:

 

• For months (if not years) after I give birth I do my very best not to look at my body in the mirror.
• When I get ready to get out my attitude is usually, “Whelp, this is as good as it’s gonna get today,” rather than a genuine appreciation for what I see.
• I consider the two 1″ stretch marks at my belly button – acquired at some point from four pregnancies – embarrassing and, out of shame, refuse to wear a swimsuit that might inadvertently show it off.
• I eat cookie dough while watching the Biggest Loser or America’s Next Top Model as an act of rebellion.

 

What’s wrong with me?! And, frankly, what’s wrong with you? What’s wrong with us that so many people are searching the internet for the “perfect body size”?!

 

• We forward writing and pin phrases about teaching young women to have healthy views of their bodies; then put our preschoolers on diets and purchase clothing designed to accentuate their physical attractiveness.
• We rail against media sexuality and how it exploits women; then turn off the lights and hide from our husbands at bedtime, refusing to reveal what everyday womanhood looks like.
• We spout the health benefits of kale and organic produce; then scarf down highly processed fast foods every time we get a chance.
• We get mad at people who place too much value on appearance but refuse to do the work to look healthy ourselves… it’s much less effort to complain.
• We tell people it’s what’s inside that counts, but then disregard personality with the statement, “I’m just not attracted to them.”

There’s a disconnect between our actions and our words!

 

I acknowledge learning the “perfectly desirable” dress size was a 12 made me feel good about being alive because it relieved a bit of the size 6 pressure I feel.

 

I don’t have perfect answers to this, but I acknowledge the hypocrisy I live out.  I am guilty on too many accounts.

 

After all, I can’t tell my daughters they’re beautiful but refuse to appreciate what I see in the mirror when I look at myself. Or can I?

 

What do you think about the body image vs. health issues we struggle with as a country? What comments about fat get you riled up?

 

*If you like this post, would you please share it with your “tribe” via email, facebook, twitter, etc.?*

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