So, during one of my chats here (I won't say who), someone said they wanted to see me in a swimsuit. Now, I'm an open-minded person, and certainly not offended by such an innocuous question. After all, whether certain women want to admit it or not, wearing such a revealing outfit will always draw attention. I am always highly aware of that whenever I put one on for the summer, and I DO wear them a lot because I absolutely adore the beach and ocean-related activities.
Men look. Women look. I enjoy the attention at times. However, the question reminded me of a time last summer, when someone said I had looked fat in my swimsuit. I had stopped working out and lifting for a bit and I guess it was showing. I thought "What a rude, inconsiderate thing to say somebody." Actually a million thoughts raced through my head. I wanted to punch them! I wanted to tell them off, yell at them, and say my body image was not up for you to judge. But, in the end, I calmly said "Yes, I am imperfect and proud of it. At least I'm not afraid to show off my imperfections and enjoy my time at the beach. So, please, with all due respect, keep your unsolicited opinions to yourself."
It took a lot for me to say that. Inside, I was boiling with anger and hurt, but I also knew that their opinion didn't define me. My body is mine, and I've learned to love it with all its so-called imperfections. So I share these photos hoping everyone keeps in mind to be a little kinder to others during peak swimsuit / beach season and not say things that can hurt and wound people deeply.
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You look great! I actually have a lot of respect for women and men that dress for the beach. It shows you being comfortable in your own skin and confidence, which only helps in every day life. I asked a question a while back about how people dress for the beach, because I will wear a Tshirt and pants, along with shoes. I would consider my body fit but I am extremely shy to show any skin. What really makes me uncomfortable, is thinking that people might think I'm just there to gawk at the girls. I hate going to the beach! 😂
@WizardofOz I think most people ignore most of the bodies on a beach, even a nude beach. I went nude three times. The first minute is anxiety-provoking, then, you don't really notice anyone's nudity.
