In my first post, titled "Food and Me," I explored my relationship with food in great depth. However, I want to take this personal essay even deeper.
I want to talk about some of my painful experiences with food - not just the positive ones like I talked about before. Food typically makes me feel good, but that isn't always the case. That's especially true when I think about some upsetting moments in my past that involve food.
I mentioned before, and it's clear to see if you look at me, that I'm overweight. That reality in itself is painful and I associate it with food because food is the reason I'm overweight (and my lack of motivation to exercise).
Growing up in a low income household, food had a different meaning for me than it may have for others. My family received food stamps for most of my life. My siblings and I received free and reduced lunch for almost all of our lives in public schools. These things played a major role in the way I thought and felt about food.
I'll keep this short, since this isn't the actual essay, but I find it hard to not continue to talk about these issues rightthisveryminute. These memories spark a lot of emotions and ideas for me, but I'll keep those to myself for now.
I'm interested to know if any of you share a perspective similar to mine. Have you ever had to rely on government assistance to get your food? How did/does it affect you?
Your paper seems like it will be great! I really like your take on it because I am sure some people can relate to this very well while others it will be something new
ReplyDeleteI can definitely relate to your childhood. After my dad was laid off we were left in the same "low-income" status. The way I looked at food for a very long time was, "buy whatever's cheapest". It didn't bother me all the time, but I was embarrassed to be poor compared to my friends and peers
ReplyDeleteMatt, I can completely relate to that! I was embarrassed that I didn't have name brand foods and that I always had to get hot lunch, even if it looked disgusting, and I had to eat it or I'd go hungry. Kids notice this types of things and it really affected me growing up. I was fortunate enough that I wasn't often bullied for it, but I definitely felt different from my friends. Thanks Kelsey, that's what I'm hoping for! Thanks for the input guys.
ReplyDeleteI think these ideas and topics will make a really great paper.
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