This outside world, the culture in which I live, asks me to be someone that I’m not and someone I don’t want to become.  I resist it’s white, hairless, made-up flawless skin, neon white teeth, blonde hair, thin and fashionably dressed standard of beauty.  While I can’t change that I am white, I can admit to its privilege rather than going along with those who insist that our culture has equal opportunity for all.  While I will continue to shave my legs, I haven’t shaved under my arms for four years and I refuse to believe that this makes me “gross.”  I haven’t worn make-up in ten years.  I buy most of my clothes used, either at thrift stores or garage sales, and I refuse to buy a whole new wardrobe just because the season and therefore the fashion has changed.  My body mass index number puts me in the obese category and my clothes size, while average, is probably at least double the ideal, but I will not take better care of my body just for the sake of a number.  I will do it for my health and well-being. 

© Salahub 2003