The Media: Arbiter of Reality
The Media used to totally exclude real and plus size people. This contributed to anyone who wasn't a size ten or below feeling unacceptable and unworthy. It was like we were vampires because when we looked at the media we had no reflection. Luckily there have been more and more real size people on TV, in the movies, on stage, in magazines and featured in books in recent years. For groups that were formerly excluded from the public eye, just seeing someone like yourself on the screen is healing.
If you are real size or plus size take the time to seek out books, TV shows, movies, magazines or websites that celebrate the beauty and talent of real size people. Mo'Nique, Roseanne, Queen Latifah, Catherine Manheim, and so many others have broken down the barriers to claim their rightful place in the spotlight. You might find also find solace in subscribing to fashion magazines for plus size women. It's incredibly healing to see someone like yourself dressed up and being the center of attention in a fashion magazine. Right now the only printed fashion magazine for plus size women that I'm aware of is Figure. They use plus size models. Surround yourself with affirmations of your beauty. Stop giving your money to those minus-size fashion magazines. They make you crazy.
If you're a parent, don't leave diet books and minus-size fashion magazines where your kids can get them. They are a bad influence. My eating disorder began in the seventies when I came across The Diet Revolution by Robert Atkins, which my mother left lying around the house. Diets are statistically proven not to work, people end up gaining back more than they lost. I did.
Be suspicious of a man who doesn't want women to take up space. He probably feels bigger if we get smaller
all quotes that are not attributed are by me.
Resources:
Fatso.com
Creator Marilynn Wann is the author of the smartass book, Fat? So! I especially like her heroes and villains cards, immortalizing those on both sides of the size war. She's out of control.
Article comments
1 - Bill
Marilynn Wann is a liar! She eats healthy and goes to the gym everyday? The only reason she goes to the gym is to raid the vending machine in the lobby!!