So, yesterday marked the halfway point of my month-long experimentation with veganism. So far? Excellent.
Only one person has been obnoxious, and that was on Tumblr, so I just unfollowed and moved on.
No known slip-ups. If I’ve accidentally eaten anything with animal
products in them, I am unaware of it. But I’ve been pretty vigilant
about checking labels.
Biggest difficulty? Lunch while I’m at work. I get up at 6 and have
to be out the door in 45 minutes, so unless I have the foresight to pack
something the night before (that’s iffy) I often rely on the little
cafe in the library. If I don’t get there early enough to get the
vegetable sushi, I usually eat hummus and pretzels. I know it doesn’t
sound filling, but I’m usually pretty satisfied with a small meal.
Overall, though, I feel really good. Physically, mentally, ethically (does that fall under mentally?), all of it.
I haven’t completely come to a conclusion about what I’m going to do
when the month is up. I have a feeling I’ll continue to eat vegan most
of the time while occasionally allowing for indulgences or when vegan
food isn’t available. Which means I won’t call myself a vegan, because
that would be demeaning to people who do it 100% of the time.
Friday, February 15, 2013
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Choice vs. Need
I've seen some differing opinions in the veggie blogosphere about whether or not our dietary concerns should be treated as a choice or a need.
I can see both sides. Yes, it's a choice. Obviously, it's a conscious decision to go vegetarian or vegan, regardless of the reasons. For that reason, everything that you do to continue that lifestyle is a choice.
However, when the choice is so personal, and can have such strong effects on health, it's also sort of a need. Like I mentioned when I talked about my ER visit, if your system isn't used to animal products, eating them can make you sick. Even if it isn't so extreme, it can still lead to an upset stomach or headache, and at best that's highly unpleasant.
So I guess my conclusion is that it's a choice that should be treated like a need. I opted to make certain changes to my diet, but for my own health I need them respected and heeded.
I can see both sides. Yes, it's a choice. Obviously, it's a conscious decision to go vegetarian or vegan, regardless of the reasons. For that reason, everything that you do to continue that lifestyle is a choice.
However, when the choice is so personal, and can have such strong effects on health, it's also sort of a need. Like I mentioned when I talked about my ER visit, if your system isn't used to animal products, eating them can make you sick. Even if it isn't so extreme, it can still lead to an upset stomach or headache, and at best that's highly unpleasant.
So I guess my conclusion is that it's a choice that should be treated like a need. I opted to make certain changes to my diet, but for my own health I need them respected and heeded.
Saturday, February 2, 2013
That irritating protein question
Seriously, stop asking how vegans and vegetarians get protein. It's annoying. And really, really unnecessary.
I'm going to pull a few things from the Vegetarian Resource Group to show you. All of the following foods are vegan and have a decent amount of protein in them:
1 cup Oatmeal - 6g
1 cup Soymilk - 7g
1 Bagel - 9g
1 cup Vegetarian Baked Beans - 12g
5 oz firm Tofu - 11g
1 cup cooked Brown Rice - 5g
2 Tbsp Almonds - 4g
2 Tbsp Peanut Butter - 8g
1 cup cooked Lentils - 18g
That's just a few examples from their sample meals. They've got a list with more detailed information about various protein sources including tempeh, beans, quinoa, vegetables, nuts, and pastas.
Basically, if you are eating a balanced diet, you are getting plenty of protein.
(So stop asking.)
I'm going to pull a few things from the Vegetarian Resource Group to show you. All of the following foods are vegan and have a decent amount of protein in them:
1 cup Oatmeal - 6g
1 cup Soymilk - 7g
1 Bagel - 9g
1 cup Vegetarian Baked Beans - 12g
5 oz firm Tofu - 11g
1 cup cooked Brown Rice - 5g
2 Tbsp Almonds - 4g
2 Tbsp Peanut Butter - 8g
1 cup cooked Lentils - 18g
That's just a few examples from their sample meals. They've got a list with more detailed information about various protein sources including tempeh, beans, quinoa, vegetables, nuts, and pastas.
Basically, if you are eating a balanced diet, you are getting plenty of protein.
(So stop asking.)
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Packed lunches
I'm soliciting ideas with this post. What's a good packed lunch that's vegan?
Normally I make a sandwich and take some kind of side like chips or pretzels, plus a piece of fruit if I have any at home. Then I'll buy a drink at school. I could recreate that as a vegan meal -- a sandwich with Smart Deli slices (which I already use), veganaise instead of mayo, and no cheese -- but part of this experiment is to be creative, so I'd like to figure out something more interesting.
Hummus with veggie sticks or pretzels for dipping, would be a good option. But I'm having a hard time coming up with much else. Enlighten me!
Normally I make a sandwich and take some kind of side like chips or pretzels, plus a piece of fruit if I have any at home. Then I'll buy a drink at school. I could recreate that as a vegan meal -- a sandwich with Smart Deli slices (which I already use), veganaise instead of mayo, and no cheese -- but part of this experiment is to be creative, so I'd like to figure out something more interesting.
Hummus with veggie sticks or pretzels for dipping, would be a good option. But I'm having a hard time coming up with much else. Enlighten me!
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
I still maintain meat landed me in the hosptial
For a few years following the end of college, I went back to eating meat. This came about because I took a trip to China my senior year with marching band, and the vegetarian meals they served were, for the most part, lacking in edibility and balance. So while I was there I gradually added in a few things, and then when I got home I couldn't stop. It was sort of like an addiction.
A year or two into this, we had moved to NYC and went to my brother's apartment for the 4th of July. We ate hot dogs. The amount wasn't really any more than normal, but it was more meat-heavy than my meals usually were. It seemed fine at the time.
Then later that night I started a stomach ache. It was so bad I could barely move, and I was doubled over in pain. Thinking it was my appendix, I had my father take me to the ER.
After laying there all night, hooked up to IVs, drinking that weird-tasting solution and getting all the tests, it was not appendicitis. The only logical explanation was that it was really severe indigestion.
It didn't strike me until a long while later that it was likely a terrible reaction to the meaty dinner I'd eaten. Sure, it could be a coincidence, but to me it's a sign that after so many years as a vegetarian, my body can't handle that kind of thing.
If you're one of those people who thinks it's funny to sneak animal products into the meals of someone who has chosen a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle, think about this. You are potentially making them very sick. If you do that, you're simply not a good person.
A year or two into this, we had moved to NYC and went to my brother's apartment for the 4th of July. We ate hot dogs. The amount wasn't really any more than normal, but it was more meat-heavy than my meals usually were. It seemed fine at the time.
Then later that night I started a stomach ache. It was so bad I could barely move, and I was doubled over in pain. Thinking it was my appendix, I had my father take me to the ER.
After laying there all night, hooked up to IVs, drinking that weird-tasting solution and getting all the tests, it was not appendicitis. The only logical explanation was that it was really severe indigestion.
It didn't strike me until a long while later that it was likely a terrible reaction to the meaty dinner I'd eaten. Sure, it could be a coincidence, but to me it's a sign that after so many years as a vegetarian, my body can't handle that kind of thing.
If you're one of those people who thinks it's funny to sneak animal products into the meals of someone who has chosen a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle, think about this. You are potentially making them very sick. If you do that, you're simply not a good person.
Monday, January 28, 2013
The Betty Crocker Project
When I get into this vegan experiment I really want to test out some of the recipes from The Betty Crocker Project. What's that? Great question.
This self-described "armchair chef" was inspired by Julie & Julia to take the Betty Crocker cookbook and veganize the recipes. There are so many that look good, but I'm just going to list five that I'd like to try.
Spicy Thai Wings
Beer and Cheese Soup
Orange Teriyaki Beef with Noodles
Pad Thai
Huevos Rancheros with Tofu Scramble
(All photos credited to The Betty Crocker Project)
Monday, January 21, 2013
Not fat-shamey vegan resources?
I am assuming that somewhere on the vast stretches of the Internet there exist some fat-positive vegan resources. I am aware of the F-Yeah Fat Vegans blog, which has some excellent recipes, but I'm always on the lookout for more.
The unfortunate truth is that there is a lot of fat-shaming in pro-veganism spaces. I've been struck by it even in just the days since I decided to do my experiment. PETA (who I dislike for many reasons in addition to this) had their "save the whales" ad campaign a while back, conflating a meatless diet with weight loss (and conflating fat with being unhealthy/unattractive).
So I'm looking for positive things. Recipes that don't talk about weight loss, blogs that don't focus on thinness, guides that don't talk about "obesity" as something to be avoided at all costs. I just want to know about the food.
The unfortunate truth is that there is a lot of fat-shaming in pro-veganism spaces. I've been struck by it even in just the days since I decided to do my experiment. PETA (who I dislike for many reasons in addition to this) had their "save the whales" ad campaign a while back, conflating a meatless diet with weight loss (and conflating fat with being unhealthy/unattractive).
So I'm looking for positive things. Recipes that don't talk about weight loss, blogs that don't focus on thinness, guides that don't talk about "obesity" as something to be avoided at all costs. I just want to know about the food.
Saturday, January 19, 2013
Still Ovo-Lacto Feelings
Last night I had a minor emotional breakdown over something stupid. How stupid? I was leaving a play with my family (side note: I'm only moderately biased as my brother was the lighting designer, but A Crucible was awesome) from a theater that is roughly midway between two subway stops. I suggested one, my brother suggested the other, and as is normally the case in my family, everyone listened to him instead of me.
I'm not saying this has anything to do with my diet. It has more to do with the fact that I'm the baby of the family and still seen as literally such.
But maybe my brain doesn't react as well to things because it's not being nourished properly? Perhaps if I were eating a little better the already-royally-screwed up chemicals in my brain (depression, yay!) wouldn't betray me so frequently.
So I'm going to try and be more keenly aware of my mood in addition to my physical health during this experiment.
Yesterday: seemingly fine. Good dinner and good play. I thought I was happy for the evening, then one misstep sent me over the edge. I kept fighting tears back, despite the fact that I am nowhere near shark week. Physically alright, though the cold makes my knees ache.
Today: headache. Possibly from getting upset. Could also be from last night's dessert and/or beer. Emotionally better.
I'm also considering taking a ginkgo supplement to help with my focus and concentration. I have a pretty hard time paying attention to my readings for school, and I'm going to have even more this semester than last, it seems. So maybe it's something I should try. I considered taking something for energy, too, but I'm hoping the change in diet helps with that.
I'm not saying this has anything to do with my diet. It has more to do with the fact that I'm the baby of the family and still seen as literally such.
But maybe my brain doesn't react as well to things because it's not being nourished properly? Perhaps if I were eating a little better the already-royally-screwed up chemicals in my brain (depression, yay!) wouldn't betray me so frequently.
So I'm going to try and be more keenly aware of my mood in addition to my physical health during this experiment.
Yesterday: seemingly fine. Good dinner and good play. I thought I was happy for the evening, then one misstep sent me over the edge. I kept fighting tears back, despite the fact that I am nowhere near shark week. Physically alright, though the cold makes my knees ache.
Today: headache. Possibly from getting upset. Could also be from last night's dessert and/or beer. Emotionally better.
I'm also considering taking a ginkgo supplement to help with my focus and concentration. I have a pretty hard time paying attention to my readings for school, and I'm going to have even more this semester than last, it seems. So maybe it's something I should try. I considered taking something for energy, too, but I'm hoping the change in diet helps with that.
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Impending Veganism
I made a decision. For one month, starting February 1, I am going to eat completely vegan.
It probably won't be that hard, since I am already a vegetarian. But there will be some key things I need to watch out for:
1. Breakfast. I frequently eat eggs in the morning, and I put butter on my toast. Since I like to have a protein-heavy meal to hold me longer, I will probably have to rely on things like tofu scrambles or tempeh bacon to provide that.
2. Coffee. I am going to try Wildwood's soy creamer to see if I like it, since I am a half-and-half user.
3. Cheese. I admit, I am kind of a cheese junkie. This one will be the hardest to figure out, probably. But there are vegan facsimiles out there that will work for things like pizza and other dishes. Plus I have my nooch.
4. Sneaky ingredients. I'll have to learn what to avoid that has hidden dairy or egg products in it.
I think I can do this, though. I'm looking forward to it. This will probably force me to eat more healthfully in general, plus I know I feel better physically when I eat plant-based meals.
It might end up being helpful for me to blog about the transition here, so look out for more posts.
It probably won't be that hard, since I am already a vegetarian. But there will be some key things I need to watch out for:
1. Breakfast. I frequently eat eggs in the morning, and I put butter on my toast. Since I like to have a protein-heavy meal to hold me longer, I will probably have to rely on things like tofu scrambles or tempeh bacon to provide that.
2. Coffee. I am going to try Wildwood's soy creamer to see if I like it, since I am a half-and-half user.
3. Cheese. I admit, I am kind of a cheese junkie. This one will be the hardest to figure out, probably. But there are vegan facsimiles out there that will work for things like pizza and other dishes. Plus I have my nooch.
4. Sneaky ingredients. I'll have to learn what to avoid that has hidden dairy or egg products in it.
I think I can do this, though. I'm looking forward to it. This will probably force me to eat more healthfully in general, plus I know I feel better physically when I eat plant-based meals.
It might end up being helpful for me to blog about the transition here, so look out for more posts.
Monday, November 5, 2012
Holy 90s, Batman (Boots!)
I am in love with these boots. They're from Big Buddha*, and I bought them off the DSW website. I had a $20 coupon on top of my $5 birthday coupon, so I basically got them for half price. They have the basic shape of ankle-height Doc Martens, without the price tag or dead cows, have a good tread and are on the wide side, which makes them really comfortable for me.
This is what they look like when not covered by jeans:
*Big Buddha didn't give me anything for free and aren't paying me blah blah blah blog disclaimer.
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Remember How I Moved? So That Didn't Work Out
Two months and two days ago I moved in with a roommate. One month ago I moved back in with my parents.
I probably should have known. When I got there on moving day to discover the cleaning she promised to do hadn't happened, or when I had to live on mac and cheese for a week before she made any room in the fridge, or when I had to pitch in to clean half the fridge (something that was I promised would be done before I got there), or when I had to step over dirty underwear in the bathroom every morning, or when I got lectured like a child for buying too many rolls of toilet paper at once, or when I had to endure endless snark about my Keurig, or when I got lectured for sliding the couch less than a foot. Or maybe when I texted to warn her that some things had been slid around when I mopped the entire apartment and got a reply telling me that was "not cool" and to move everything back to where it had been.
But no.
I tried to stick it out.
Until I committed the horrifying error of coming home exhausted (after two nights in a row of getting in at 11 PM and getting up to leave again at 6 AM) and forgot to bring a box in from the hallway. Oh, the horror. That was when I got lengthy texts accusing me of treating everyone else like a servant (you know, minus that whole mopping the entire place and always being the one who takes the trash out thing). Actually, the texts came AFTER she pounded on my bedroom door after midnight yelling about it.
A box.
Then my reply was to remind her we'd had a conversation about her lecturing me. And she said it wasn't going to work out. So I called my family. She wanted to discuss when I would be leaving. I discussed it. With my father, and then my brother when he fortunately was available with his car to help me get my stuff out.
I was evicted, via text, for forgetting we had a package in the hallway.
By someone who is rigid and unyielding, but simultaneously disgusting and a complete slob. So I'm staying with my folks again, and next time I find a place I will be living ALONE.
I lasted about the same amount of time the Lutz's put up with 112 Ocean Avenue. I'm not sure which scenario is worse.
I probably should have known. When I got there on moving day to discover the cleaning she promised to do hadn't happened, or when I had to live on mac and cheese for a week before she made any room in the fridge, or when I had to pitch in to clean half the fridge (something that was I promised would be done before I got there), or when I had to step over dirty underwear in the bathroom every morning, or when I got lectured like a child for buying too many rolls of toilet paper at once, or when I had to endure endless snark about my Keurig, or when I got lectured for sliding the couch less than a foot. Or maybe when I texted to warn her that some things had been slid around when I mopped the entire apartment and got a reply telling me that was "not cool" and to move everything back to where it had been.
But no.
I tried to stick it out.
Until I committed the horrifying error of coming home exhausted (after two nights in a row of getting in at 11 PM and getting up to leave again at 6 AM) and forgot to bring a box in from the hallway. Oh, the horror. That was when I got lengthy texts accusing me of treating everyone else like a servant (you know, minus that whole mopping the entire place and always being the one who takes the trash out thing). Actually, the texts came AFTER she pounded on my bedroom door after midnight yelling about it.
A box.
Then my reply was to remind her we'd had a conversation about her lecturing me. And she said it wasn't going to work out. So I called my family. She wanted to discuss when I would be leaving. I discussed it. With my father, and then my brother when he fortunately was available with his car to help me get my stuff out.
I was evicted, via text, for forgetting we had a package in the hallway.
By someone who is rigid and unyielding, but simultaneously disgusting and a complete slob. So I'm staying with my folks again, and next time I find a place I will be living ALONE.
I lasted about the same amount of time the Lutz's put up with 112 Ocean Avenue. I'm not sure which scenario is worse.
Monday, August 13, 2012
I'm Moving!
Yesterday I found a room. Obviously I'm not going to give away the exact location, internet creepers, but it's in Queens, and it's a small but cute room that's a really good price with someone I already know.
The block.
The room.
Closet.
Friday, August 3, 2012
Jumping the Gun
I admit it: I haven't even found an apartment yet and I packed some stuff today. Not a lot, and nothing I can't live without for awhile if that's what it takes, but I was bored and I had both energy and boxes, so I went for it. Basically, I just took some things off the walls.
Before:
After:
It was mainly taking the tchotchkes off those shelves and cleaning off my desk. I also reorganized inside that silver drawer thing and the two black boxes (under the Eleventh Doctor) on my desk.
I really hope this place tomorrow works out.
Before:
I really hope this place tomorrow works out.
Thursday, August 2, 2012
Not a Scam!
I have plans on Saturday to go see an apartment with an available room. The other people living there sound awesome, the rent is reasonable and the location is good.
Living alone was my top choice, but if these ladies are as friendly and chill as they seem via email, it could be good for me. My one fear with living solo was becoming a hermit, so maybe with a couple of people around that won't be as big a risk.
The only thing I haven't asked is about pets. Zelda is staying with my parents (she's too attached to my dad not to live with him, and I've made my peace with that), but I was thinking that I'd like to get a cat at some point. I guess I'll just have to find out and if they say no then I'll decide if it's a dealbreaker.
Living alone was my top choice, but if these ladies are as friendly and chill as they seem via email, it could be good for me. My one fear with living solo was becoming a hermit, so maybe with a couple of people around that won't be as big a risk.
The only thing I haven't asked is about pets. Zelda is staying with my parents (she's too attached to my dad not to live with him, and I've made my peace with that), but I was thinking that I'd like to get a cat at some point. I guess I'll just have to find out and if they say no then I'll decide if it's a dealbreaker.
Monday, July 30, 2012
The Hunt Begins (with scams!)
So I'm looking for an apartment. I've been staying at my parents' place for *mumblemumble* years and with the start of my Ph.D. program, it's time to move on. I should be getting a corrected award letter soon (back story: LIU had me in the system as an undergrad, so the first financial aid letter I got was wrong), so I started sending emails and making calls about ads I saw. One of them I knew was too good to be true (a 2 BR in Queens for $850 a month, ha) but I sent an email anyway because I was morbidly curious about it. This was the response (names and contact info redacted):
I also got another reply that wanted my credit score info before they'd move forward and linked me to an obvious scam site to get it (one that redirected me to a Google search instead of actually going to a site). I guess I'm 0/2 on the apartment hunt so far.
Hi
I and my darling wife are very happy to inform you that the apartment is still very much available for rent, my intentions and plans is to give out the apartment to a Reliable and Responsible person that would be able to take proper care of the lovely home. It's indeed a lovely and comfortable home and available to move in as soon as possible, i pray that May the Peace of the almighty Lord be with you for considering my home.
Fees needed to move in:
Monthly Rent: $850 (Including Utilities)
Security / Deposit: $500.
2 Bedrooms
2 Baths
APARTMENT FEATURES:
2 Bedrooms
Hardwood Floors
Big Living Room, Kitchen
Brand New Cabinets, Electric Cooker & Refrigerator
I would like you to know that i am giving this lovely apartment out to you because i have just been appointed by the United States of America Government as the head of ANTI-TERRORIST monitoring squad (Zone D), and i have been posted to West Africa for special duty in the international airport so as to search and to monitor every one traveling to the United States of America to avoid another terrorist attack. My appointment will last for 5 years before rounding up the program.
I would like you to fill the below details:
==================================================================================================================
RENT APPLICATION FORM
FIRST NAME:_________
MIDDLE NAME:_________________
LAST NAME:__________________
AGE:_____
PROFESSION:________________
TIME ON YOUR JOB:______
PHONE_________
(CELL)PHONE_____
(WORK)PHONE____
(HOME)_________________
KIDS___ (YES/NO), HOW MANY________
PRESENT ADDRESS:_______
HOW LONG?_______
WHY ARE YOU LEAVING? IF THIS APARTMENT IS BEING GIVEN TO YOU,
HOW LONG DO YOU INTEND STAYING?_______
WHEN DO YOU INTEND MOVING IN?________
IF YOU HAVE A PET?_____-
DO YOU SMOKE?______________
DO YOU DRINK?_________
DO YOU WORK LATE NIGHT?____
HOW SOON CAN YOU HAVE THE DEPOSIT PAYMENT SENT TO ME:___
HOW SOON DO YOU WANT TO RECEIVE THE KEYS AND DOCUMENTS OF THE HOUSE:______________
==================================================================================================================
I will need this information because my family and i won't be moving back to the apartment whenever we're back, there is no Registration fee. The Security Deposit would be needed as a Security Bond in order for the keys and the Lease Contract agreement to be sent to you. Electric Bills and water bills have been paid for, so i would also need to send the receipts to you.
I would like you to know that you are free to contact me at any time. After i receive these details, i would get back to you soonest and then let you know my terms.
Feel free to contact me on my direct Phone Number: [two overseas phone numbers, which is a GIANT red flag]
Greetings from my lovely wife.
I hope to hear from you soonest.
Thanks
[redacted]
I also got another reply that wanted my credit score info before they'd move forward and linked me to an obvious scam site to get it (one that redirected me to a Google search instead of actually going to a site). I guess I'm 0/2 on the apartment hunt so far.
Monday, July 23, 2012
Urban Hiking
I sort of went hiking yesterday. By that I mean I went to the Ravine in the middle of Prospect Park, which is almost like real nature. Well, it's the closest you get in the middle of Brooklyn.
Officially, I was taking pictures for Brooklyn Based, but it was also just nice to wander through the woods. It was a good 10-15 degrees cooler once I got into the wooded part, so it was a pleasant walk.
Monday, July 16, 2012
It's Official
I know I announced my intent to get my Ph.D. in the last post, but several days ago I got the official letter in the mail. No going back now!
Friday, July 6, 2012
A Change Will Do You Good
I've done a lot of griping on this blog about unemployment and the ennui it causes. So I'm making some changes. No, I haven't found my dream job. But I've decided to go back to school.
So I'm starting in September, and I'll be pursuing a Ph.D. in Information Studies at Long Island University.
There's still a lot to fall into place in the next two months, so I'm a little terrified. But also excited. I still have to figure out an assistantship, and maybe a temporary summer job so I can have some cash saved -- since there's maybe $180 in my bank account right now.
And I'll need to find an apartment. Since I'll be at the CW Post campus, not Brooklyn, I need to live somewhere accessible to the LIRR. Right now my parents' place isn't great. I could do it, but it would not be very convenient. I'd rather find a place in Queens that's closer to the train. Also, it's beyond time for me to move out.
So that's that. Things are happening, and I hope everything works out.
So I'm starting in September, and I'll be pursuing a Ph.D. in Information Studies at Long Island University.
There's still a lot to fall into place in the next two months, so I'm a little terrified. But also excited. I still have to figure out an assistantship, and maybe a temporary summer job so I can have some cash saved -- since there's maybe $180 in my bank account right now.
And I'll need to find an apartment. Since I'll be at the CW Post campus, not Brooklyn, I need to live somewhere accessible to the LIRR. Right now my parents' place isn't great. I could do it, but it would not be very convenient. I'd rather find a place in Queens that's closer to the train. Also, it's beyond time for me to move out.
So that's that. Things are happening, and I hope everything works out.
Saturday, June 23, 2012
Public Fatness
So, I hear all the time about fat people being subjected to harassment and ridicule for daring to be out among the general population. For some reason, it hadn't really happened to me (as an adult, let's not get into childhood bullies). OK, once a guy told me I needed to exercise more, but it was a cheap comeback because I yelled at him for riding his bike on the pedestrian path on the Manhattan Bridge. I'd never experienced an unprovoked attack until today.
See this guy? I was standing on the F train today, with my dad, headed to Coney Island for the Mermaid Parade (my dad was headed elsewhere). I had my earphones in, enjoying some quality time with most recent SFH album, when my dad pointed to this guy and said "I think he'd trying to tell you something." So I took out my earphones and looked over. The guy made a little running motion, then mouthed "one hour, every morning."
It clicked that he was telling me I needed to exercise more. So, loudly, I said "Are you telling me I'm fat?" Obviously, I am, and I know that, but I thought that would catch the attention of more people around us. My dad was like, "Is that really what he said?" So I (still loudly) said "He's telling me I need to go running every morning."
So I turned to the guy and said (yes, still loudly, and well enunciated) "That's none of your business." He got a little flustered and apologetic, but I continued, "You don't just make comments on random strangers' bodies."
At that point we arrived at the stop where my dad was getting off, and after I said goodbye to him I moved to another part of the car. But I also took this picture, because people who harass others on the subway don't deserve anonymity. If I knew this guy's name I'd say it. I'd tag it and post it everywhere, so whenever someone Googled him this came up. But I don't know his name, so all I have is a picture.
It's just another reminder that if you dare to be fat in public -- especially if you are a woman -- your body is not yours. There are people who think that because you are out of the norm, you should hear their opinion and "suggestions" for your body and your life. Because they assume they can tell how you live based solely on how much adipose tissue resides on your body. Of course, this happened in a city that wants to legislate away fat through arbitrary things like soda and bake sale bans.
Luckily, I am very confident in my body -- the one I've been living in for 28 years. I know that I am fat. I know my lifestyle, my health, my limits. I am not going to share any of that, because it's no one's business but mine. But because I am content with myself, I look back at this incident horrified at this guy's gall, but not feeling any worse about myself. If I were more sensitive about my appearance, this might have ruined my day. I hope he's never done that to anyone who might really suffer a blow to their self-esteem from it.
It clicked that he was telling me I needed to exercise more. So, loudly, I said "Are you telling me I'm fat?" Obviously, I am, and I know that, but I thought that would catch the attention of more people around us. My dad was like, "Is that really what he said?" So I (still loudly) said "He's telling me I need to go running every morning."
So I turned to the guy and said (yes, still loudly, and well enunciated) "That's none of your business." He got a little flustered and apologetic, but I continued, "You don't just make comments on random strangers' bodies."
At that point we arrived at the stop where my dad was getting off, and after I said goodbye to him I moved to another part of the car. But I also took this picture, because people who harass others on the subway don't deserve anonymity. If I knew this guy's name I'd say it. I'd tag it and post it everywhere, so whenever someone Googled him this came up. But I don't know his name, so all I have is a picture.
It's just another reminder that if you dare to be fat in public -- especially if you are a woman -- your body is not yours. There are people who think that because you are out of the norm, you should hear their opinion and "suggestions" for your body and your life. Because they assume they can tell how you live based solely on how much adipose tissue resides on your body. Of course, this happened in a city that wants to legislate away fat through arbitrary things like soda and bake sale bans.
Luckily, I am very confident in my body -- the one I've been living in for 28 years. I know that I am fat. I know my lifestyle, my health, my limits. I am not going to share any of that, because it's no one's business but mine. But because I am content with myself, I look back at this incident horrified at this guy's gall, but not feeling any worse about myself. If I were more sensitive about my appearance, this might have ruined my day. I hope he's never done that to anyone who might really suffer a blow to their self-esteem from it.
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