Dear Tell All: The recent discussions about Gov. Chris Christie's weight have been making me sick. Apparently, the New Jersey Republican is worthy of ridicule just because he's overweight. How could someone so heavy be taken seriously as a presidential contender? You hear the taunts on late-night TV and, locally, on Stephanie Miller's syndicated radio show on The Mic 92.1.
Miller's cruel jokes really make me mad, given that she's a liberal. Here's someone who would pounce on you if you suggested that gay people or people of color were less than human because of the hand that nature dealt them. Well, what's the difference? Most overweight people are dealing with heredity or addiction or family issues. Most of them aren't simply "weak." It burns me up to see adults behaving like schoolyard bullies when it comes to fat people - the last class of Americans whom one can belittle with impunity.
I know what I'm talking about. I'm overweight myself, as is my daughter. Both of us were born this way and have vainly tried to slim down with exercise and diet. I'm used to fat jokes on TV, in movies, and in casual conversation. My daughter isn't yet, and it's so sad to see her realize that she'll always be a target, through no fault of her own. Kids on the bus and on the playground are merciless - and gee, I wonder where they're taking their cues from? Oh, right, from adults like Stephanie Miller who should be teaching them to respect other people regardless of how they look.
I've never voted Republican before, but I would welcome the chance to vote for Chris Christie if he ever does decide to run for president. So there, Stephanie Miller - your cruelty will lose one vote for your side.
Heavy But Human
Dear Human: Those who taunt overweight people are deficient in empathy. Many of them will gain weight as they get older, so nature will ultimately have its revenge. But in the meantime, what's the proper response to these bullies? Readers?
