Fit Mom Strikes Back!
Maria Kang, the mother who received a hail of criticism for encouraging others to get healthy, finally issued a public statement on Facebook today.
She struck back at what she saw as bullying and seemed totally unapologetic for doing what she believes is the right thing for her and her family.
The Libertarian Republic wrote about this here: Should fat people feel ashamed of themselves?
[Archived image removed: Maria-Kang-Pics]Here response is here:
I’m alive! After the onslaught of last week’s media blitz and feeling like a punching bag from commenters, emailers and news/talk show hosts (won’t say who) I feel like I can still smile knowing that the many who got my message, truly received it. I do have to admit though. I have looked at this man to my right and asked “what is going on?” a few times. (thanks hunny for your support) Here’s what I believe is going on:
#1 There’s an accountability issue. There’s a lot of people with a lot of excuses – not only did McDonald’s make people fat, apparently I did also!
#2 There’s an entitlement issue – people believing that I can achieve something without doing anything (genetics) People don’t want to hear that it takes discipline, consistency and hard work to achieve a goal anymore.
#3 There’s a body shaming issue (my body). Apparently we have forgotten how different kinds of health looks like (since being overweight has become normalized)
#4 There’s a bullying issue. I think this word is so overused that we forgot that a bully attacks others? I posted my picture on MY fitness-oriented page. (I still feel the cyber punches from those who continuously attack me- ouch!)
#5 There’s a motherhood issue. We wear many hats as caretakers and often providers for our family. The stress to balance everything is great right now – but my point as a busy working mom of three is to make yourself a priority. You are a better mom when you take a little bit of time to be healthy. However your body physically manifests in the process of exercising and eating healthy is beautiful. (and it doesn’t have to look like mine)