My first account with people hiving weight problems gets back to 4th grade. I had a class mate with this problem. I don't remember that any one caused him a problem except the teachers that might slide a comment or two, and might borrow his shoe if they decided to participate in a soccer game. Other than that my step mother was voluptuous for few years during my teen years and managed to get back to her usual looks. Back in the time Jordan didn't have any issues with weight as a nation. And we would be looking at TV commercials on American channels as something that doesn't relate to us. and my impression was that the US is filled with people with weights issues as it shows from the media and press reports.
That was in the back of my mind when I came to the US few years ago. But to my surprise, most of the students I met on campus were in great shape. I was later told that this is a very competitive area for both guys and girls so they try their best to stay in a good physique. and that I need to go to shopping centers or down town to see a clearer image. and that was true to some extent.
Recently I read that having few extra pounds might mean reducing your chances in life. Several studies show that overweight people have less chances of being employed or getting attention as possible mates. Some even go to the limit of saying that this is the new discrimination societies will face.
I understand why someones look can be a factor in getting a position such as a spokesperson or external relations manager. Things get less clear for desk jobs, unless there is a correlation between overweight and laziness. More important to my case is having an affair with some one that has problems controlling his/her weight. Would you commit yourself to someone that has a great persona, good future, fun, but has this image problem? It took me sometime to think about it when a similar situation happened to me. I was generally against that for few reasons.
If you want to go beyond the obvious issues such as physical attraction (as it is a matter of taste after all) it needs to be stated that there is probably a huge case of self-control behind that extra luggage. Most people know better than to get involved with a smoker or a heavy drinker because of the health issues their partner will face sooner or later. Same thing applies for obesity. I don't know how someone can overlook the fact that his partner is so careless about his/her own life and social looks. or that s/he cannot act to stop him/her self from destroying their bodies and their health.
