Submitted by Theresa (not verified) on Wed, 06/02/2010 - 10:46.
I haven't been bullied or treated very badly about my large legs (or when I was larger, my size either), but I'm still disappointed at their hugeness. When I was younger I was chubby, and when I slimmed down, my lower half was still quite big. Big thighs and calves. Low self-esteem led to self-hatred. Throughout my teens until now (mid-twenties), I didn't dare to wear anything above the ankle outside of home. I was depressed that I couldn't wear the cute styles other girls could and was super hot in the summer while wearing long pants/skirts outside.
I am trying to accept myself and all of my unique features although this process is very slow. I agree with the fight against the media and social portrayal of what it means to be beautiful. When I see my friends, I don't see them as "the fat one" or "the one with the bad teeth". I see them as a whole package and how wonderful they are including their unique features. I think that is how they view me (and not as "the one with huge muscular legs", although they could see me as "the one that complains about her huge legs a lot" hahah).
I am still very self-conscious of my legs, but have started to wear leggings, shorts, and short skirts outside. On the days where I think, "screw you world! I was made this way - I can run strong, walk strong, and kick butt!" I am empowered. More often than not, I just feel sad my legs are huge, but at least it's not an every day thing anymore. =) I am exercising and trying to eat healthier. I say to myself, "My calves are strong - and so should I be strong. Stop bowing to the pressure to conform to female standards of being beautiful by looking fragile and embrace just being healthy."
Trying to be more confident