I tried on some things that didn’t look great on me, in sizes I haven’t worn in ages (after the sales person told me their items *run big*). I also purchased items in another store that were sizes I’ve truly not worn since I was pictured in my own former *before* photos.

Why am I sharing this? Because I am no different from anyone else who has been strongly, negatively affected by diet culture.

I cannot tell you how many times I had emotional breakdowns after trying on clothes or seeing my own reflection for many many years. A reflection in so many varying shapes and sizes, it didn’t matter what it was- it was never about that.

It’s always been fat phobia. It’s so deeply ingrained that it’s almost invisible even when (especially when?!) we are wielding it against our own damned selves.

The amount of judgment I used to hold about body sizes and shapes is honestly embarrassing and shameful. I’m so so sorry to anyone I ever judged, myself included.

So much more to say here and so many more feelings about it. But for now, this is all I want to share.

If this resonates with you, just know that I see you and I feel you and you are loved and worthy exactly as you are.

♥️

Diane