I know I run the risk of being called uncompassionate, cruel and insensitive but the reality is just the opposite. As with my position requiring every immigrant to be proficient in English I also think that every capable American should be reasonably fit.
The National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance (NAAFA) is in my opinion no better than organizations that promote the lack of assimilation by immigrants in the U.S. They believe in promoting the problem, embracing it and being more understanding. They promote mediocrity and the status quo and curse those that are not happy with the results of their promotion of failure.
The NAAFA is now calling for the boycott of Southwest Airlines because of their treatment of Director Kevin Smith who was thrown off a recent flight for being too fat. Smith contends that he was within regulations and was able to lower both his arm rests. What isn't clear is how much was hanging over the edge that prompted the airline to act.
The policy that Southwest enforced is very similar to other airlines and should be enforced. We have become a society of ME and conduct ourselves with reckless disregard as to how it impacts everyone else. The fact that you can squeeze into a seat only means that the armrest is pushing the fat around it and does not take into consideration the impact on those around you.
I have compassion for those that truly are ill and can't help their weight. That doesn't mean however that I should be forced to have an uncomfortable flight because of it. Consideration is a two way street and a person's condition whether self inflicted or not does not entitle them to impose on others.
Instead of trying to advance fat acceptance the NAAFA should focus on addressing the harsh realities of living a sedentary lifestyle. There are so many illnesses that are related to being fat from Heart Disease to Diabetes, damaged joints and Depression. How is it compassionate to promote accepting fat when it ultimately will lead to the person's demise?
American culture can get a bit excessive when it comes to beauty but we are also a bit excessive when it comes to promoting baseless self esteem. Making someone feel good about something they should feel bad about is cruel and counterproductive. The best way to face life's cold cruel challenges is head on, not by living in a fairytale where everything is all good including being obese.
Stay Sharp!
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National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance (NAAFA)
