Stop Making Summer a Bummer

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Jun 20, 1999

We see it every year, in the comic section of our local newspaper. "Cathy", ever the discontented bachelorette, trying on summer clothes in the changing room of her department store. We know she'll soon be berating herself for her size, just as she does for her mild, roller coaster of a love life. Yet again, she won't fit into the swimsuit she wanted. Yet again, when she finally goes to the beach, she'll sit all covered up, and probably not enjoy herself at all. Rather sad, really.Of course, Cathy is just a comic strip. She has nothing to do with real life-- or does she?

In fact, I know lots of Cathys, and in fact have been one myself. I bet you have too. How often have you waited to experience something until you lost weight? Skipped that trip to the pool with your friends? (or gone, but begged off of any activity that would entail dropping that terry-cloth coverup). Begged out of a company picnic, or dance? Avoided your high school, college, or even camp reunion? "They'll all be in great shape, and will laugh at how big I've gotten". Or, "I was fat then, I'm still fat. I can't face them until I'm thin. I know I can do it this time..." And of course, you end up missing what would have been a fun event. Fact: you won't be the only large person there. Fact Two: you won't be the only one worried about making a bad impression. The cheerleaders, jocks, class brain, and everyone else have probably all changed in some way.

So, here's my suggestion. Act like that Nike slogan, and just do it. Go have fun. Make the most of life's experiences. Confidence will do a great job of showing what a vibrant, wonderful person you are -- no matter your size. It isn't easy, I know. But even the smallest step is a good one. Go have some summer fun. That way, you'll have something great to look back on in the chill of next winter. As Auntie Mame said "Life is a banquet, and most poor suckers are starving to death"

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