Being labeled as “fat” is not just an insult; it’s hurtful and damaging. Recently, a mother of two, Allison, shared an incident that occurred while she and her kids were swimming. This incident has left everyone wondering what really happened.
Allison’s response to her 30-year-old daughter calling her obese was nothing short of brilliant. Her reply has now gone viral on the internet, and for good reason. Allison Kimmey, who started dieting at the young age of 14, has been on a journey of self-acceptance and body positivity. Through graduate school, she managed to maintain a size two to four, but she was never truly content. It wasn’t until three years ago, at the age of 27, when she reached a size eight, that she realized she would be much happier if she stopped fighting against her body’s natural changes.
To motivate herself and inspire others, Allison created the @allisonkimmey Instagram account, where she shares empowering images and quotes. While her body acceptance message resonates with many, not everyone is receptive to it.
During a recent trip to the pool with her children, Allison’s daughter shouted at her and called her fat. Instead of getting angry or upset, Allison seized this moment as an opportunity to teach her children an important lesson.
She responded to her daughter’s comment with a calm and thoughtful conversation. Here’s an excerpt from Allison’s Instagram post:
Me: “What did you say about me?” Her: “I said you were fat, mama. I’m sorry.” Me: “Let’s talk about it. The truth is, I am not fat. No one IS fat. It’s not something you can BE. But I do HAVE fat. We ALL have fat. It protects our muscles and our bones and keeps our bodies going by providing us energy. Do you have fat?” Her: “Yes! I have some here on my tummy.” Me: “That’s right! So do I, and so does your brother!” Her brother: “I don’t have any fat. I’m the skinniest. I just have muscles.” Me: “Actually, everyone, every single person in the world has fat. But each of us has different amounts.” Her brother: “Oh right! I have some to protect my big muscles! But you have more than me.” Me: “Yes, that’s true. Some people have a lot, and others don’t have very much. But that doesn’t mean that one person is better than the other. Do you both understand?” Both: “Yes, mama.” Me: “So can you repeat what I said?” Them: “Yes! I shouldn’t say someone is fat because you can’t be just fat, but everyone HAS fat, and it’s okay to have different fat.” Me: “Exactly right!”
Allison’s intention was not only to teach her children how to speak respectfully to others but also to spread the message of equality regardless of body shape. It’s no wonder that her Instagram post has gone viral.
Allison beautifully explains how shaming her children for using the word “fat” would only perpetuate the stigma that being fat is unworthy, gross, comical, or undesirable. Instead, she wants to encourage us all to be better at uplifting each other and not judging based on appearances. It’s time to change the narrative and prioritize kindness and acceptance. Spread the word if you agree!
