I want to write here about how much weight I've lost since moving, but I am scared. Talking about weight is tricky and it is a very sensitive topic. I'd like to focus on the different environmental reasons for this drop in weight, and how it is by virtue of having moved that the pounds came off. There are many reasons for the weight loss, but all of them have to do with being in an area that is conducive to being fit and healthy.
I'd like to talk about how people in the Midwest or the South, who are often more overweight than those in other regions, aren't lazy or dumb or conditioned by families to be fat. It's almost impossible not to be overweight, or at least unhealthy, in some places.
Anyway, I'm scared to. I don't want to come across as bragging, being insensitive or any of that. But my clothes keep not fitting, and it's something I think about a lot.
I'd love to explore that here, but I wonder how it will be received.
How do you think it will go over?
Do it. Be honest. Tell the story. You'll inspire more people than you piss off.
Posted by: Sam Davidson | November 04, 2009 at 09:58 AM
As a fattie, I give you permission. I'm interested to hear what you have to say.
Posted by: Jessie | November 04, 2009 at 10:01 AM
I concur. If it's real and true, tell your story. You can be both sensitive and authentic, I believe.
Posted by: eliza | November 04, 2009 at 10:23 AM
Tell it from a biographical point of view. you're right it's not any one change that caused you to lose weight but an entire lifestyle shift. I think information coming from a real person instead of a more fake, non-sustainable reality show weight loss story on television is bound to inspire more people.
Your weightloss is a result of changing your life, you didn't change your life in order to lose weight. that's the difference between bragging/being insensitive versus sharing.
Congrats by the way, I am jealous of all the tasty food options you have now compared to here.
Posted by: saraclark | November 04, 2009 at 10:37 AM
I have watched another southern transplant also melt the pounds away, so you idea that there is more to weight loss than calories and exercise is proven by two very honest people. There is a mind-set in different parts of the country that either helps or hinders healthy living. They don't call it "Southern Fried" for nothing. Go for it and just maybe it will inspire us obese (according to BMI index) people to think before we run to the nearest buffet of fried everything with mac and cheese on the side.
Posted by: Southern tybette | November 04, 2009 at 11:05 AM
It's always a tricky subject. Weight is as personal as sex. (That's why I hate when politicians and folks in the public eye criticise others' weight. You wouldn't go into someone's bedroom and tell them to squeeze harder, pump faster or shift their knees, would you?)
But I think you should just be honest. Say what you've found to be true for you. How this has happened and how it made you feel.
Because I suspect all of what you're saying is true. It's easier to be thinner when you are surrounded by opportunities to walk places and have access to delicious, nutritious food on a daily basis.
I do know what you mean, though. I get nervous myself when talking about it. But sometimes writers just have to write what's on their hearts.
Posted by: Coble | November 04, 2009 at 11:09 AM
I am glad you commented, Coble. I was thinking of asking you to come in here.
Posted by: brittney | November 04, 2009 at 12:02 PM
Within five comments someone will accuse you of:
1. anti-feminist tendencies
2. hating the obese
3. being a southern turn-coat
...WRITE IT ANYWAY!!
Posted by: Ariel | November 04, 2009 at 05:34 PM
I say write it. As someone who's been thin her entire life and recently has begun to gain weight, I've been contemplating if/how I should blog my own weight journey. Yours is the opposite issue, and I'd love to read it.
Posted by: Megan | November 09, 2009 at 07:49 PM
I say it is a very valid topic and there are many different reasons people lose weight. One reason is metabolism, which can be changed via different routes - when you make certain changes in your life your thinking processes shift. Thinking processes affect metabolism. I have moved from TN to NC and none of my clothes fit me any more.Not only have I lost weight, I look different and my body has really changed. I have always eaten very healthily and have really made no changes with my diet other than being a little looser with my eating habits. People ask me what have I done to lose the weight...I have made a lot of changes in my life, period.
Posted by: Shelly Collins | November 12, 2009 at 06:55 AM