Sunday, May 18, 2008

I can no longer remain silent


Upon opening the morning paper I see the story about a young sister who, at the tender age of 31, died, perhaps, due to her obesity and after reading her story….with out a doubt, I’m sure obesity was a factor. I’m going to stick my neck out, again, and talk about this issue as I see it.

I know it is considered impolite to discuss in mixed company the subjects of sex, age, politics, religion, and body weight. However, we pay good money to see comedians like Richard Pryor or Chris Rock talk about these very issues! They not only talk about it, they beat you up about it and we laugh. Why can’t we talk about these issues like we talk about the latest gossip in Hollywood?

I don’t know how many times I’m asked by an obese woman, “how do you like my hair?” or “how do you like my dress, my nails, my jewelry, my make-up, my…….?” Rarely am I asked, “How do you like my body?” talk about a relationship-ender.

These very subjects that we shun in public discourse are the very same subjects that are killing us in private.

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

..I hope I don't look like that CAT!....It made me laugh when I saw the cat. ..albeit I know the subject is not a laughing matter. Thanks for the reminder (s) re: weight. :)

K

Anonymous said...

Oooh, you could be incurring the wrath of the "sisters" if they read this one.

microbrother said...

Folks, I have an over-weight family member who smokes and eats whatever comes to her mind. We have heart disease and diabetes in my family.....and she doesn't appear to be changing her ways.

I love my people, so I'm going to speak out on their behalf. If I get cussed-out, well that's just a cussin' I'm going to have to take. That's my story and I'm stickin' to it!

yummy411 said...

it may not be discussed, but we are aware of it every day... believe me. while it is a terrible epidemic, and your piece (opinion)is yours, it is up to that person to want to change and do something about it.

some people can't get health insurance until they lose weight. so trust that we know. comedy is another arena that takes a more comfortable form. remember that in talking about these subjects education is best. not belaboring or adding to the negativity behind it, because it's really a mental issue at the end of the day.

microbrother said...

Yummy, your point is well taken.

Your suggestion is good, but the clock is ticking. If not now, how long must we wait to save love ones? If not me, who should speak?