Life
I’m Fat, and That’s That
Living in a world of fat-phobic judgment has zero advantages.
A couple of weeks ago, I had a grueling deep-tissue massage that I’m still feeling today. Muscle-searing agony aside, one thing stood out — the massage therapist’s comments about my weight.
I’d explained to the massage therapist — we’ll call him Dave — that I have degenerative disks in my lower lumbar, which causes sciatic nerve pain. He gave me a look I tried to read as compassionate but ultimately decided was patronizing. And then this conversation ensued.
DAVE
This is a little uncomfortable to talk about, but…
ME
(with a pained smile)
I know. The lower lumbar issues are weight-related.
DAVE
I used to have the same problems. I was heavier myself, once upon a time. But if you just lose the weight…
Just lose the weight.
Oh, thank you, kind sir, for your astute advice! It never occurred to me that my life would be easier — so much easier — if I lost weight. It’s almost as if I’d never experienced people judging me based on the amount of fat I carry around my middle.
