Two time U.S. National Champion Gracie Gold recently placed 5th place in Skate America. That is a huge accomplishment in its own right! But Gracie was disappointed. Her reason?
“You don’t often see — there aren’t that many — you just don’t see overweight figure skaters for a reason. It’s just something I’ve struggled with this whole year and in previous seasons."
It really hurts my heart that the 21-year-old considers herself overweight. To the regular person's eye she looks slender and fit. In her mind's eye- she is overweight.
While I say that, I also understand we all need to feel comfortable in our own skin.
A while back when I was feeling really good about myself I was told by several people- "don't get any skinnier". Was that about their vision of me or was I really looking too thin? I had been in great shape but actually on the high end of government standards. On the flipside- I've been told that same exact comment when I have felt I was "overweight" and was considered so on that same set of government standards.
So, how do we deal with this? I guess I'd say live your life! If you feel that you need to lose some weight- work toward making you- your best self. If you are happy with where you are- keep taking steps to honor your body. But, whatever your path- do it for you. Try not to do it to respond to a perceived standard that you need to live up to. And- don't forget to lift up your beautiful friends! Help them find their inner goddess too!
I believe Gracie has a promising future even if she doesn't competitive skate. I hope she sees that value in herself as well.
If you'd like to read more about Gracie and her candid comments about weight. Click HERE.
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