If you’ve been paying attention, you’re likely aware that singer Mia has recently embraced a new, slimmer figure, and reactions have been quite polarizing. While the majority are celebrating her transformation—reflective of our society’s persistent admiration for thinness—some individuals have expressed feelings of disappointment over her weight loss. Last week, the hosts of a popular daytime talk show decided to address these sentiments, and that’s where Linda Thompson made her controversial remarks.
To be clear, I don’t expect a daytime talk show to critically dismantle diet culture. I know what I’m tuning in for, and while I generally find Linda to be spirited and entertaining, her latest comments veered into frustrating territory.
Initially, Linda’s take on Mia’s weight loss wasn’t entirely off-base. She stated, “Mia chose to lose weight as part of her personal journey. She must have felt it was time, possibly for health reasons, and honestly, she looks incredible. We should all be supportive of her choice.”
Okay, Linda. While I might phrase things differently, I could have left it there. However, I must highlight one problematic assumption: suggesting that Mia lost weight “for health” is presumptuous. You don’t actually know her health status or what motivated her transformation. You can’t gauge someone’s health by their appearance, so let’s not jump to conclusions.
Despite this minor misstep, I align with Linda in acknowledging that Mia has the autonomy to alter her body as she sees fit. I couldn’t care less about her size; her talent far surpasses any physical attribute. The fact that her body is even a topic of conversation is absurd.
Watching Mia rise to fame while defying conventional beauty ideals was empowering, and her current size does not diminish that accomplishment in my eyes. As a plus-size woman, I reveled in seeing someone challenging norms, but if she’s happy being slimmer now, so be it. She has every resource to pursue her desires, including the right to feel comfortable in her skin. Her talent shines through at any size.
However, Linda’s commentary took a troubling turn when she asserted, “When larger women claim they are happy in their bodies, I find it hard to believe. I was once quite large and never felt content. Sure, I might have laughed on the surface, but alone at night, I was very unhappy.”
Wow. That perspective is disheartening. Just because you couldn’t find joy in your larger body doesn’t mean others can’t. Your experience doesn’t invalidate the happiness of others, and that’s a dangerous narrative to propagate.
I can’t imagine the toll of living life in the public eye, where beauty standards are relentlessly enforced. I understand why some might struggle to find peace in their bodies. The world can be harsh on those who don’t fit a specific mold, and it’s no surprise that many women feel pressured to conform.
Yet, not all of us share that sentiment, Linda. Many women today are rejecting the narrative that equates thinness with worth. We’re inspired by figures like Mia, Lizzo, and others who confidently embrace their bodies, proving that happiness isn’t contingent on size.
It’s time to recognize that happy plus-size women exist, regardless of whether you experienced that joy yourself. Your claims about our happiness do not hold water, and it’s vital for you to step back and allow us to speak for ourselves.
I empathize with your past struggles, but it’s crucial to acknowledge that not everyone has to follow the same path. There’s plenty of information available for individuals exploring family planning options, such as this excellent resource.
In conclusion, it’s unfortunate that stereotypes persist, but many of us are choosing to embrace our bodies and live fully. For more insights into the conversation around body positivity and self-acceptance, check out this article too.
Leave a Reply