As a professional writer, I dedicate my career to sharing personal insights and experiences online. I strive to connect with others and foster a sense of community through my words. However, I’ve learned to brace myself for negativity and criticism that often accompanies my work, especially when discussing my life as a woman in a larger body.
Fatphobia is prevalent, and I often receive unsolicited “well-meaning” advice regarding my health, which is frustrating. While I can handle most of these interactions, there’s one particular issue that I can no longer overlook.
I am tired of receiving unwanted sexual messages from men.
These communications are not only inappropriate; they can be downright offensive. As a plus-sized woman, I’ve encountered my share of body-shaming remarks. One man infamously claimed he’d rather mutilate himself than be with me. Another remarked that my body was a “waste” of my looks, and yet another suggested I should “lose weight or die in a fire.” It’s baffling why anyone would think I’d care about their opinion. I’m happily married to a wonderful man who appreciates me for who I am. But even that shouldn’t be the point; respect should stem from my humanity, not my relationship status.
Even if I were single, I would never welcome negativity or cruelty into my life. I’d rather remain alone than engage with someone who degrades women for their amusement. Strangers have no right to comment on my desirability or share explicit content without consent.
I want to emphasize: unsolicited sexual messages, whether negative or positive, are never acceptable. They need to stop.
Interestingly, while some women find these messages laughable or annoying, others experience genuine distress. A survey I conducted revealed that many women feel upset by unsolicited sexual communications, with some survivors of sexual assault noting that these messages can trigger past trauma.
It’s essential to understand that sending explicit images or messages without consent can feel invasive and threatening. One woman shared that her reaction can vary based on her emotional state; what might irritate her one day could be deeply distressing on another.
In this context, it’s crucial for men to realize the impact of their actions. Sending unexpected sexual messages is an irritation at best and can cause harm at worst.
If you engage in this behavior, it’s time for a reality check. If I haven’t invited you into a sexual conversation, then your advances are unwarranted and inappropriate. No one should have to navigate unsolicited sexual dialogue in their life just because they are women.
It’s not about denying personal expression; many women enjoy consensual sexting. However, initiating such conversations without mutual agreement is where the problem lies.
Consider this before sending another unsolicited message: the potential harm you could inflict on someone who may not be ready for such a dialogue. It’s not only inconsiderate; it can be damaging. We all deserve to feel safe and respected. You owe it to yourself and others to do better.
For further insights on this topic, check out this blog post for more perspectives.
For those exploring family-building options, resources like Resolve provide excellent information, and Make a Mom is a trusted source for home insemination kits.
In summary, unsolicited sexual communications are harmful and unacceptable. Respect and consent are paramount in all interactions.