By Chris Ly
New Organizing Project blogger
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For the longest time, I’ve been over weight. Ever since I was young, I noticed that my belly was a bit bigger than the rest of my classmates. Sure you laugh, but I, along with millions of other kids, have been bullied because I was overweight.
What is considered overweight?
Some refer to a set of numbers that doctors come up with to categorize us into groupings – underweight, normal, overweight. I understand we all need to keep our weight in check for health reasons, but sometimes being extremely cautious about weight also can have negative health impacts.
Society doesn’t help much in defining what is beautiful. Most ads, commercials or billboards you see around are about losing weight, diet pills or new diet plans while eating your favorite foods. We’re in a losing weight “high”. I strongly believe in taking care of yourself by exercising and eating right, but why is it so important to look so small? Why is it that society only accepts those who are thin?
Recently, I have been going under a lot of pressure from family and friends about my weight. Truth is, I love the way I am. I am fully aware that it will affect my health in 10 years, and I’m working on that, but I am not doing it to look a certain way to fill society’s expectations.
I am very envious of people who can wear size 32, but it doesn’t mean I will suffer just to fit in; fit it in those pants and fit in with the crowd who can. It’s never really bothered me until recently. I’ve always known and I don’t hide it. I don’t pretend as if nothing is wrong or that I will be okay. It’s been bothering me because of all the little side comments, jokes and remarks that get bottled in. I feel bad about it as it is, but to spotlight it isn’t gonna do anyone any good. Maybe they do it to make themselves feel better, but whatever the case, people need to stop the negative comments that deflate people’s confidence. If jokes and comments get too much then, unfortunately, it can lead to bullying.
We should all accept people no matter how much they weigh. I respect plus-size models who have found the courage to be different and serve as role models for youth like me. Instead of modeling to look like you haven’t eaten in a week, these models still come out looking beautiful. Maybe one day I could be a plus-size model? J If not, then an inspiring voice to bring this issue out, especially within the young AAPI community.
(Photo Credit: http://www.sunrainey.com/v-magazine-plus-size-models.html)
