Eating disorders drive self hatred! That’s a strong statement. Because this week, February 24 – March 4, is Eating Disorders Awareness Week, I am posting on the subject. Although eating disorders affects both males and females, NIMH-funded research concludes they are more common in females. Thus, my focus today is women and eating disorders. I doubt anyone will argue with me when I mention the importance of refraining from judging others by their body habitus. Yet this type of behavior is NOT uncommon in our society. Just last year, Chanel designer Karl Lagerfeld publicly criticized the amazing, talented female vocalist Adele for being “too fat”. In my opinion, that was a sad comment. Hello! Women are not their bodies. This week, and throughout the year, practice taking women seriously for the talents they have, the contributions they make, and accomplishments they achieve.
But reminding each other to stop the ‘fat talk’ isn’t enough . Our children need positive role models and affirmative messages. Pondering about what to say to girls today, I remembered a video of Katie Couric speaking at the Girl Scouts’ 100th anniversary. In the beginning of this video, Katie talks about the people who have influenced her. It is the second part of this video I especially like; Katie’s message to girls is precisely what I hoped to say. Yes, we all want to look good and there’s nothing wrong with that, but please don’t forget about your brain and your heart. Work on the things that lie within you to become the strongest, most productive and intelligent version of the amazing woman you are. Take a look, and if you have a daughter, please share with her:
(note this video best viewed in Firefox or Chrome)
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