Dear Barb:
I read your columns every week, but I haven’t read anything about weight issues. I am a female in my early thirties and after having two children, I have gained a lot of weight. I am okay with my weight gain, but I think it is a problem for some of my family members. I have a yearly physical and my blood pressure and test results are in the normal category. At family gatherings some of my cousins tell me about diets and exercise programs that I should look into. How do I get them to stop discussing my weight? I’m sure I’m not the only person in the world that is happy with whom they are, big or small! Looking forward to reading your response. Erica
Hi Erica:
You are a rare breed, it seems most of the world is dieting and trying to lose weight and It’s great that you are happy with who you are. I don’t know how overweight you are, but there are health risks associated with too much weight. Perhaps your family members are concerned about your health, however as long as you monitor your health and weight with your doctor, it is no one else’s business how much you weigh. The next time someone tries to discuss your weight, thank them for the information, but tell them that you are happy with your weight as it is. Great question Erica.
Dear Barb:
My twin sister is attending her first year university and is moving into residence. I will be staying at home with my parents and little brother. My parents are spending a fortune on my sister’s education, while they do nothing for me. I wasn’t ready to go to university and wanted to stay home this year. Now they expect me to get a job and pay for my own clothes and spending money. Why should I have to get a job just because I wanted to take a year off school to hang out with my friends? I don’t think this is fair, what do you think? Troubled in Trenton.
Dear Troubled:
I agree with your parents! You need to get a job! Why would you expect your parents to take care of all your needs while you just lie around the house or hang out with your friends? They are providing food and accommodations for you, so I wouldn’t agree with you that your parents do nothing for you. You are old enough to contribute to your care. Welcome to the real world, It’s time to grow up and take responsibility for yourself. Perhaps you may want to rethink whether you really need to take a year off school!
Email your questions to voice@voicemagazine.org. Some submissions may be edited for length or to protect confidentiality; your real name and location will never be printed. This column is for entertainment only. The author is not a professional counsellor and this column is not intended to take the place of professional advice.
