It all began with an innocent scroll through social media. You stumbled upon a picture of me — bright red lipstick, a fitted catsuit, and a sparkling vest — and felt an inexplicable urge to comment. You decided to share your “humor” with the world, posting a quip that went something like this: “Wow, that girl could really use a sandwich!!!”
Clever, right? Because clearly, a “skinny girl” must be starving and in dire need of a cheeseburger, fries, or maybe even some deli meats. But let me tell you something: I’ve heard variations of this jab more times than I can count. Standing at 5 feet tall and weighing in at 105 pounds, it seems my appearance is a topic of conversation far too often. However, this was the first time a complete stranger decided to critique my body online. Ironically, it was on a piece I wrote about mental health.
I attempted to brush off your comment, but it lingered in my mind. I want you to understand, dear commenter, that your words affected me deeply. You struck a nerve because, in truth, you were right. I needed to eat. My body was not in a good place, and the discomfort I felt in my stomach was a constant reminder. Yet, despite my physical needs, eating felt impossible.
So, let’s get personal: my name is Jordan. I’m a writer, a mother, and a mental health advocate. If you had taken the time to engage with my article, you would have known that. Perhaps you simply didn’t care.
You probably don’t realize that I carry a heavy heart — one shaped by love, loss, motherhood, and an ongoing struggle with an eating disorder. Yes, “that girl” you mocked has faced her demons, and even after years of work on my recovery, I still grapple with negative body image.
Each day, I scrutinize my reflection, seeing flaws where you might see perfection. I feel the urge to exercise obsessively, running several miles a week to maintain a certain image. This isn’t just a hobby; it’s become a compulsion. I count not only calories but also sit-ups, lunges, and every step I take. I find myself questioning if I can indulge in a cookie with my child.
On the morning you posted your comment, I stepped on the scale for the first time in a year. I stood in the shower, pulling at my skin, hoping that the steam would somehow change my body. Your comment ignited a cycle of self-doubt and a desire to restrict my food intake further.
While you may have thought your comment was lighthearted, it was anything but. It served as a reminder that my body is up for public scrutiny yet again, and it hurt.
So, I urge you, think before you joke. Every time you type, remember there’s a real person behind the screen — a human with experiences you may never understand. For more insight on this topic, check out this other blog post.
If you’re interested in learning about at-home insemination, consider reputable online retailers like this one for at-home insemination syringe kits. Additionally, if you’re looking for resources on donor insemination, you can find excellent information here.
In summary, we must be mindful of our words and the impact they may have on others. What may seem trivial to one person can be a heavy weight for another. Let’s strive for kindness and compassion in our interactions.