I was getting body shamed at dinner. My little brother ended it in one sentence.
My uncle’s been making comments about my body since I was 12.
Always loud enough for everyone to hear.
Always with that smug little smile.
This year at Thanksgiving, I reached for a second piece of bread and he goes,
“Better slow down. Boys don’t marry girls with thunder thighs.”
A few people laughed.
I froze.
My mom just looked down like she always does.
Then my little brother put down his fork and said,
“Uncle Rick, haven’t you been divorced three times? Maybe stop giving dating advice.”
The whole table went silent.
My uncle stood up and walked out without another word.
My brother just passed me the bread basket and said,
Eat. You’re perfect.
This is Jesse Van Rootselaar, the 18-year-old transgender person accused of shooting 35 people yesterday, including their mother, sister, a teacher, and young children. Ten people have died, and many others are still fighting for their lives.
Reports indicate that Jesse had been transitioning for several years and was undergoing medical treatment. It’s also been reported that they suffered with mental illness their entire lives. As investigators work to determine what led to this horrific act, many questions remain unanswered.
This is why I don’t support the transitioning of individuals under 18 years old, especially ones that struggle with severe mental health issues. They should at least grow up a little more to become more mature.