Sanah, a 16-year-old teen is grappling with obesity. She has been fat-shamed, called names, and looked down upon but it doesn’t affect her anymore. Why? Because she has found her superpower. Read this week’s Feelings Express to find out! 

Taking too much space?

My journey with body image and societal judgments began when I was just five. A friend flat-out refused to let me ride her bike, insisting I was too heavy and might break it. That hurtful moment left a mark, echoing through my teenage years.

Now, every time I hop on a means of public transport, I can’t help but notice the judgmental glares. It’s like I’m not just taking up a seat; I’m taking up too much space in their world. The teasing, the mocking, the bullying—it’s a daily reality. 

At this age when I have a crush on someone, I can’t even share this feeling with anyone because I know they will make fun of me. Going shopping doesn’t seem fun anymore because I don’t get clothes for myself. 

The playground, which is supposed to be a place for fun, sometimes made me feel really lonely and left out. People used to make fun of me when I ran or did anything active.

When it all gets too much, my safe space is talking to my mom. She, too, was a chubby kid, so she understands my struggles. Her advice is to just ignore them. Simple, right? But the truth is, it’s not always easy to turn a blind eye to the judgment.

Whose fault is it? 

I want to make one thing crystal clear: it’s not a blame game. I don’t blame my parents, and I certainly don’t blame myself. I didn’t choose to have an obsession with junk and sugary foods. And my parents? They’ve been my pillars of support, standing by me through thick and thin. It’s not just my battle; it’s theirs too. 

They’ve weathered the storm of unsolicited advice from well-meaning parents who suggested, “Isko gym join karwa do” or “Keto diet is the best”. 

But guess what? I’ve tried the whole weight loss thing. Sure, it’s a work in progress, but what’s become more crucial to me is feeling comfortable in my own skin. I don’t rely on others to make me feel good about myself. My parents have always emphasized that real confidence comes from within.

Yes, there have been moments when the nasty comments have stung. People have called me “fatso”, “Golu”, “Motu” “Buffalo” and much more! But I’m learning that my self-worth isn’t tied to how others see me. My journey is about being at peace with who I am and embracing myself despite what society thinks.

Make it your superpower

Today’s got me thinking about growing up and how some things from the past never really fade away. You see, I used to be an overweight child, and those memories, those internal scars, they’re still a part of who I am. But here’s the thing – they don’t define me.

I’ve come a long way, and I’ve learned to be comfortable in my own body, in my own skin. It’s a journey, let me tell you. Especially when you’re a teenager and it feels like everyone’s got an opinion about you. It’s like being in a courtroom where you never asked for a trial. 

But you know what I’ve realized? Being comfy in your own skin is like having a superpower. In a world where it feels like everyone’s an expert on how we should look, being at peace with yourself is like a rebellion.

I’ve figured out that my journey to loving myself doesn’t need a thumbs-up from people who only see the surface. As a teenager in this world full of pressures and these crazy beauty standards that make you feel like you’re never enough, I’ve decided to rebel in my own way. I’m not playing by their rules. I’m all about self-love, resilience, and defining beauty on my own terms.

To all you awesome teens out there dealing with the same stuff, just keep being you. Your journey is completely unique, and guess what? You don’t need anyone’s permission to love yourself. Your value isn’t just skin-deep. Embrace it, own it, and remember, you’ve got company on this path to self-love.

Shutterstock//Person in the photo is a model. Names changed

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