I’ve always been a heavier set girl, and for as long as I can remember I’ve been constantly getting “You’re really pretty for a bigger girl.” Which, I guess to some people is supposed to be a compliment, but to me, it sounds like an insult.

Some may not know this, so let me lay it down for you. Plus-size men and women are sick of you giving us these backhanded compliments, saying that I’m “pretty for a big girl” is just another way of you saying, you’re fat and I expected you to be ugly. So therefore, keep your backhanded compliment to yourself.

I am sick and tired of people defining me by my weight, I am not just a plus-sized girl. I am a daughter, a college student, a dancer, and most importantly a person. I am not just an object you can mark with a label and push to the side, I am not just “pretty”. I am an educated individual, with an outstanding personality, who wants to conquer the world and the clear the way so people don’t just feel that “pretty” is all they can be. I am sick and tired of people defining other due to their body types, it doesn’t matter if your skinny, plus-sized, short, or tall you are beautiful, and don’t let anyone define whom you are.

I want everyone to know that society doesn’t define you as a person, you define you. You can become anything and everything that you want, you decide your destiny. Do not let anyone make you feel less of yourself, be the brightest star out there, and shine brightly for everyone to see. If people are going to judge based on your looks, then let them, because deep inside you should know that it’s the inside that counts, and those people who are judging you are the ones losing out on the joys of life. Don’t let anyone dim your sparkle, be the best you and don’t let anyone bring you down. You are more than just pretty, you can be anything.