Has this ever happened to you?

It’s time to gather with your loved ones to celebrate and you can’t wait to tell them about your current accomplishment (academic success, new project, motherhood, creative hobby…) and to hear from them. You are proud of yourself and you really wish that your loved ones share that too.

But… Your uncle’s drastic weight loss draw’s everyone’s attention. He is glorified as if he had climbed Mount Everest or as if he had won gold at the Olympics.

“What’s your secret?”

“Are you on the ketogenic diet?”

“How many calories do you eat per day?”

“Did you do a detox or a juice cleanse?”

While people are in awe of you uncle’s “miraculous” body change, no one takes the time to broach more deeper subjects. No one realizes the harm such conversation can do.

And you, you end the evening with a heavy heart, with the impression of not having had any real exchanges with these people that you cherish.

This year could be different. If you feel like it (and have the mental strength for it), I invite you to speak up and encourage people to have conversations not centered on weight or appearance Some kind words could make all the difference.

I also wish you lots of laughs and tasty meals. Remember to take care of yourself, surrounded by caring people.

Cynthia Marcotte – @cynthia.marcotte.dtp