[christie]

[QUOTE=Bit;69864]why are we focused on this woman?

I have a very uncomfortable feeling that it's because she's visible. I have a very uncomfortable feeling that it's because she's trespassing on our culture's strongly-held stereotypes of proper womanhood, proper motherhood.

Bit, I snipped you post for brevity as this is the part that I wanted to respond to -

I think we are focused on "this woman" because she chose to put her quest for 1000lbs and her means of income (her websites) in the public eye.

My feelings about how she is instilling, what will most likely become, habits and ideas around food that her children will feel is "normal" and only led to what are commonly known health issues related to morbid obesity.

I feel as a mother, it is my responsibility to teach my son certain things; after all, I am his primary reference point or "barometer" in how to move through the world. I try to teach him that relationships aren't disposable and that they are about love AND commitment. I try to teach him to embrace diversity in ALL things - people, music, politics, religion, et al. I also try to teach him about moderation and healthy eating habits.

I know that he also learns less from my words and more from my actions - and is likely to mimic the behaviors he sees.

From that perspective, I don't care how many outside sources her children have for healthy living. I believe they will take more from her behaviors than from any external influence.

I always feel if someone puts something out in public, its fair game for discussion, opinions, comments and, at times, judgement and criticisms based on the "me" barometer of right/wrong/appropriate/inappropriate/healthy/nonhealthy.

From that me barometer, I just think she is being selfish and unfair to her children.
Christie