As I parked my car at the gym, I spotted her and couldn’t help but express my annoyance. I turned to my partner, saying, “This is exactly why I dread coming here—encountering people like that.”
She was not overweight at all; in fact, she appeared flawless. We’ve all come across her—the upbeat woman in barely-there workout gear, constantly posing and clearly seeking the spotlight.
What is it about her allure that irks me so much? Why do I resent the attention she attracts, especially when I have no desire for it myself? Why do I wish something unfortunate would happen to her, like a minor mishap in front of everyone, just to see her stumble?
Perhaps she has never experienced being overweight. I can only guess that she bounced back effortlessly after having kids. Why is it that I roll my eyes at her? She likely isn’t a villain, unless you consider the impact on my self-esteem.
I don’t know any of the women at my gym. Some resemble me, but many look like her. Maybe she serves as a painful reminder of my own insecurities, reflecting back an image of myself that feels inadequate. She could symbolize the discipline and willpower I struggle to maintain when it comes to nutrition and fitness.
Seeing her might bring to mind my closet filled with outdated clothes and the collection of hair accessories I can’t seem to part with. Her flat stomach could highlight my own body struggles after carrying two children. Perhaps I’m facing the reality that my kids are now old enough to manage their own meals, leaving me without excuses.
Her immaculate hair emphasizes my own lack of grooming, and maybe I envy her smooth skin without scars or imperfections. It’s possible she has never felt the need to hide her body, nor has she dealt with the chaos of children clinging to her while she tries to maintain her composure.
Yet, I may be misjudging her. Just because she appears fit doesn’t mean she is genuinely happy or fulfilled. Perhaps she, too, stares in the mirror and sees only her flaws. No, she probably has an impeccable self-image, supported by counseling for self-esteem and a high-powered job that allows her to indulge in worldly experiences.
As I stepped off the cardio machine, additional thoughts came to me. Maybe shaming someone for being fit is just as harmful as shaming someone for their weight. Deep down, the person I’m truly resenting is not her—it’s me.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s important to recognize that our feelings towards others often stem from our own insecurities. Instead of allowing envy or resentment to dictate our emotions, we should focus on self-acceptance and understanding that everyone has their own struggles, regardless of their appearance.
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