In the world of television news, developing a resilient attitude is essential. As I deliver stories to viewers at home, I know that some will take the opportunity to critique me. Recently, someone commented on a piece I did about a program aimed at teaching families to prepare healthy meals. Instead of discussing the content, the viewer chose to focus on my appearance, slyly remarking, “She appears to eat healthy,” accompanied by a sarcastic emoticon.
While he didn’t directly call me “overweight,” the implication was clear, and it’s far from the first time I’ve encountered such comments. People can get quite inventive in their attempts to criticize, with descriptions like “lumpy” thrown around. Instead of calling me ugly, I’ve been told I have “below-average looks.” Over the years, I’ve grown accustomed to this kind of feedback. However, a decade ago, remarks like these would have left me in tears, consumed with worry about how others perceived me.
I understand that criticism is part of the job. Do I relish it? Not unless it’s constructive. But it’s a reality I accepted when I chose this career path. Now, being older and wiser, I’ve learned to let such comments slide off my back. I recognize that I may not fit the mold of a typical blonde supermodel, and I’m certainly not “skinny,” but I prioritize being healthy, which is what truly counts. I might not ever be a size 2, but I embrace my size 8 figure without shame.
After a long stretch without negative comments, I was disheartened to receive another harsh critique about my appearance. It struck me not just because of the words themselves, but because of the implications for my daughter, Mia, who sees me as her role model. Unlike my own upbringing, she will grow up in a digital age where people can hide behind screens and hurl hurtful comments anonymously. To be honest, that reality terrifies me.
So, how can I ensure Mia develops a strong sense of self-worth and a positive body image? I lead by example. By loving myself, every curve and imperfection, I’m teaching her self-acceptance. Over the past few years, I’ve undergone medical challenges, including surgeries, and I’ve even given birth to triplets. My body has proven to be remarkable! It might not be perfect, but I am comfortable in my own skin, and I want my daughter to witness that. Each morning, as we brush our teeth together, I hold Mia in front of the mirror. We admire our reflections, and I make sure to tell her she is beautiful. It’s never too early to instill self-love in our children.
It has taken me years to become the person I am today, and I take pride in that journey. When confronted with negativity, I remember a childhood saying: Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me.
For more insights on the journey of motherhood and self-acceptance, you may want to check out this blog post at Intracervical Insemination, or explore resources at UCSF for more information on pregnancy and home insemination. If you’re interested in self insemination options, consider the products from Make a Mom, as they are an authority on this topic.
In summary, embracing who we are and modeling self-love for our children is crucial in a world full of judgments.