What are "we" doing to our children in America?

[Saffron]

OK---so as long as we go under the guise as being non-judgmental, we can say anything we want about anyone.

You're right. I don't know these people. But I know what I saw and you don't. And I know how many I saw and you don't. I'm making a judgment based on what I observed. You don't do those kinds of things--yeah for you.

The truth is that childhood obesity is directly linked to adult obesity. Now one can say I'm not overweight, but my kids are or vice versa. That's not what I mean. Although it could mean that. Most obese children grow up to be obese adults and it's getting worse. Children are way more inactive than they were years ago--not blaming parents--just stating a fact. It IS the parents job, however, to try to guide them to a more healthy lifestyle.

And for someone who has no interest, Saffron, you've had a lot to say.

Whose being defensive?

You are the one questioning why others weren't drawing the same conclusions you were about people using ECVs, not me. This is what you said:

And in my initial post I specifically mentioned that I know that not everyone that uses an ECV is lazy, but people here won't even admit that SOME do that.

I simply stated that I wouldn't know that, I don't know anyone that uses an ECV, I can't comment why someone uses an ECV, I don't pre-judge people like that. Maybe others don't either, I don't know, they'll have to answer for themselves why they didn't comment on your conclusions about people driving/riding in ECV's. I'm not sure why you find that so cheer worthy. LOL!

I never said I had no interest in this thread, what I said was:

I have no interest in the childhood obesity debate inside a thread about fat or "overweight" or "obese" lazy people on ECV's.

goofy's friend ... I can understand that. Like I said, we all take things from posts/threads that we want to take.

 

[notnothin]

I'm late to this thread, and I'll go through the 27 pages of it tomorrow. However, last time I was in WDW, I noticed something about the Disney park channels on TV:

Has anyone ever noticed that on all of the DVC, Waterpark, Theme Park, etc., commercials that nearly everyone there is thin, in great physical shape, all smiles, well dresses, etc.?

However, when you enter the parks, you find that things are quite different? (i.e., more often than not obese to morbidly obese families, tons and tons of people on ECVs, people essentially look like bums, etc.). I pointed this out to my fiance, and now I notice it during every Disney commercial that I ever see, even here back at home... Interesting to both of us.

 

[TimeforMe]

goofy's friend ... I can understand that. Like I said, we all take things from posts/threads that we want to take.

And ya know what? That is exactly my point. I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that the majority of people who are reacting so vehemently are defensive because they are overweight. And you know? That's OK. Just don't make me out to be the bad guy making it seem like I am biased against overweight people. I've said it before---I AM OVERWEIGHT, too. I just refuse to be a member of the club that accepts it.

The people that are reacting here are the ones that are taking something out of my post that was not my intention. If I offended you in some way, it was unintentional.

 

[Planogirl]

Are we now arguing about who is defensive and who isn't? Darn, I was enjoying the bit about school lunches.

This thread has taken more turns! It's been interesting.

 

[jaycns]

Does that fact that a person overeats and doesn't work out enough make them unworthy of respect or even make them more "faulty" then you? For all of you who made remarks about overweight people, take a minute to think. When you look at an overweight person, you see their issues plain as day. But does that mean that their personal problems are any worse then yours? There are many ways to compromise your health. MANY conditions (but not all, I know that many people suffer without any "wrong doing", I am not judging anyone, just pointing something out) are at least in part caused by the actions or lifestyle choices of the afflicted person.

Would you say that someone suffering from AIDS should not use that scooter to make WDW accesible for them because they contracted the disease through unprotected sexual contact? Would you say that someone who suffers from late stage cancer that could have been cured if caught early (and would have been caught at a yearly exam) but skipped their physicals because they had "better things to do" should not use the scooter? How about the person who was a heavy drinker earlier in life and now suffers with liver problems that make it hard to sustain the pace at Disney. Maybe he/she should not be able to get a scooter either. Or what about the person who is now unable to move his legs after crashing into a tree one night because they drove even after they knew they were too tired to do so safely? The smoker who now has lung problems? The list could go on and on.

All of those people most surely regret in one form or another an unwise choice or series of them. It is a crazy to try and judge people. NOBODY is perfect. For those of you judging overweight people and thinking "If they would just get off the scooter and walk they wouldn't have the problem in the first place", I ask you to do this, take a look at your life. Is it perfect? If so, then congratulations. You are the only one in the world. But if not, if you can admit that you too have your faults (only people cannot see them by way of extra pounds hanging off of your body) then maybe you could take the time to rethink your stance and cut overweight people a little slack.

Just my feelings. I am not flaming anyone and most assuredly NOT judging anyone who has any ailment I mentioned. Also, to be clear, I don't mean tht anyone who is sick deserves it in one way or another...I just mean that nobody, able bodied or not is perfect so why is anyone casting stones just because the other person's faults may be easier to see with casual observation.

That said...the same thing applies to the OP's observations of others and their children...the day my children are perfect or I am the perfect parent then (and only then) will I start in on some other family. Period. Maybe if we all showed a little more tolerence and a lot more grace each of our families would be doing a lot better!!

I think this got overlooked in the "what should schools be allowed to sell" debate within this thread. I just wanted to restate this post because I think we need to grow up and stop judging other people. For the record, I am overweight...but my children...they are athletic, slender and muscular. NOT that it makes one bit of difference because you see, ALL of you have faults. ALL of us do. None of us is perfect. Nor are we the perfect parents...just because you can see what "fat" people do to themselves or their kids doesn't mean you have the right to comment unless you want everyone commenting (in public forums without your permission or most of the time even knowledge) about your parenting skills and your personal issues (and YOU do have them). The "you" I speak of is all of us...me included.

Let's lighten up a bit...not only pound wise but attitude wise.

**kicks over soap box**

 

[DisMN]

I think this got overlooked in the "what should schools be allowed to sell" debate within this thread. I just wanted to restate this post because I think we need to grow up and stop judging other people. For the record, I am overweight...but my children...they are athletic, slender and muscular. NOT that it makes one bit of difference because you see, ALL of you have faults. ALL of us do. None of us is perfect. Nor are we the perfect parents...just because you can see what "fat" people do to themselves or their kids doesn't mean you have the right to comment unless you want everyone commenting (in public forums without your permission or most of the time even knowledge) about your parenting skills and your personal issues (and YOU do have them). The "you" I speak of is all of us...me included.

Let's lighten up a bit...not only pound wise but attitude wise.

**kicks over soap box**

You're right, your other comments got lost and I agree with you 100%. I also had wanted to make similar observations but you've put it so well.......especially about the whole thought process that some folks seem to go through to decide a person flawed because of an OBVIOUS physical trait as opposed to a hidden one. ALL humans are imperfect and broken in some way or another.

Timeforme keeps saying that she doesn't "accept" overweight but I say I accept it and try hard NOT to feel like I'm somehow broken because I weigh more than someone else thinks I should. What a horrible way to judge someone else, based on their body size.

When did it become anyone elses business what someone else weighs anyhow?

.

 

[chobie]

I think I'm a good parent but that doesn't mean I don't question myself everyday nor do I think I could in any way be parent of the year. We all just do the best we can and what we believe is best for our children.

All I can say about any of the topics on this thread is that if you're not happy about something then go change it instead of just complaining about it.

Again with the judgments? First of all, how do you know those of us who are complaining are not also doing something about it? Since when are the two mutually exclusive? Also trying to educate people as to what is going on in the schools and why it is going on is not "just complaining", but if you have a problem with what you percieve as people "just complaining" by all means stop posting on and reading this thread

 

[Wishing on a star]

More judgements and completely UNtrue statements regarding Chobie

And, to Chobie, as I posted earlier, I did go to speak with the School Nutrition Department, and even the Super.... I am thinking that more people like me (and you) have done the same thing. Because, now the junk is GONE!!!

It is sad when the schools defend their 'right' to use our small children as a marketing opportunity, and we actually have to resort to laws and regulations to stop them. I am not sure if it is the State or the Federal government who has been instrumental in the changes here in our schools. But, in general, the States are usually trying to meet Federal guidelines in order to recieve Federal funds. ( I suppose those Federal Funds far outweigh the nickels and dimes they are making on pushing this junk. )

So, my assumption that this is actually Federal Law that these other posters are flaming you for supporting.

I say if the parents here want to make the decision for their kids that they can have this junk every day, then go ahead and buy all the junk that you want... even send it to school with your child... Who is stopping you!!!! I will have no complaints. This is not about being a 'complainer'. This is about standing up for what we feel is best for our children.

 

[TimeforMe]

Timeforme keeps saying that she doesn't "accept" overweight
.

Please don't speak for me and put words in my mouth. What I said/meant was that I don't accept being overweight as being acceptable for ME. If you, or anyone else is happy and healthy with your weight then good for you. I refuse to accept it for myself because:

1. It's unhealthy. I run the risk of diabetes, heart disease and other health risks.

2. I don't like the way I feel i.e. sluggish, tired, not being able to move as quickly and freely as I used to.

3. I don't like the way clothes fit my body and don't like the choice of clothes available to me.

4. I want to be an active person in my older years.

So, all the reasons are my own. Again, if you or anyone else who is overweight is happy with their size, good for you.

 

[Cindyluwho]

When did it become anyone elses business what someone else weighs anyhow?

.

I don't think it's anybody's business what size or weight an adult is. But where do we draw the line on children? Would you feel it's your business if you saw a parent slap a child in the face and scream at them? Would you judge them, thinking that the child may be scarred for life or physically harmed? How is feeding a child a constant stream of junk any different? You're setting them up for a lifetime of problems. And, again, I'm not talking about a twinkie here and there or a soda here and there, I'm talking about a constant diet of the stuff that leads a child to be obese. Maybe the parents don't know any better? You could say that about the parent who slaps and screams at the child, as well. There's no easy answer, but it's something we all should be thinking about.

 

[FergieTCat]

Please don't speak for me and put words in my mouth. What I said/meant was that I don't accept being overweight as being acceptable for ME. If you, or anyone else is happy and healthy with your weight then good for you.

According to your first post, you apparently don't accept being overweight in other people either, especially the obese ones that ruined your "fabulous" vacation by using ECVs in your line of vision. The ECV's that you wouldn't have been so "lazy" to use yourself.

Your first post did little to disguise your anger at obese people, and it was judgmental to call them "lazy". Why do you care how others choose to traverse WDW? It's obvious that being overweight is not acceptable for OTHERS either as far as you're concerned.

Personally, I thought the first half of your post was a way to vent your prejudice and anger at the obese. If I had started a post by saying that I went to the market and saw a family using Food stamps, and then went on to express my disgust with people who are too lazy to get jobs and therefore rely on Welfare and Food stamps, I'd be labelled a bigot. Why wouldn't the same be true for you?

 

[TimeforMe]

that ruined your "fabulous" vacation by using ECVs in your line of vision.

First off, my "fabulous" vacation was in no way "ruined" and nowhere did I state that. I am not "angry" at overweight people (as I've said before but everyone seems to be ignoring), I am overweight myself. I am, however, concerned, saddened to see that obesity is reaching epidemic proportions and there is a downward spiral concerning our youth. Are you not concerned about that, too?

And yes, I'll say it again that I do believe SOME (not all) people are too lazy to walk and yes, they're willing to pay whatever it costs to not have to do so. I wonder how many of these people actually NEED these on a daily basis and not just while at WDW? Just curious.

 

[FergieTCat]

First off, my "fabulous" vacation was in no way "ruined" and nowhere did I state that. I am not "angry" at overweight people (as I've said before but everyone seems to be ignoring), I am overweight myself. I am, however, concerned, saddened to see that obesity is reaching epidemic proportions and there is a downward spiral concerning our youth. Are you not concerned about that, too?

And yes, I'll say it again that I do believe SOME (not all) people are too lazy to walk and yes, they're willing to pay whatever it costs to not have to do so. I wonder how many of these people actually NEED these on a daily basis and not just while at WDW? Just curious.

My apologies for assuming that your vacation was ruined, when you were merely "saddened." I'm glad to see that you took it in stride. And even thought enough to start a topic on the Dis Boards upon your return.

I believe I've made my points in several of my posts, most specifically in my last one. And so did you, to a big extent.

As for our youth, I don't think it's such a cut-and-dry solution. There's lots of research out there on why the obesity rate has risen in our society. I suggest reading "Fast Food Nation" for starters.

 

[TimeforMe]

I suggest reading "Fast Food Nation" for starters.

I have read Fast Food Nation. I've also seen Super Size Me. Have you?

 

[Missy Mouse]

According to your first post, you apparently don't accept being overweight in other people either, especially the obese ones that ruined your "fabulous" vacation by using ECVs in your line of vision. The ECV's that you wouldn't have been so "lazy" to use yourself.

Your first post did little to disguise your anger at obese people, and it was judgmental to call them "lazy". Why do you care how others choose to traverse WDW? It's obvious that being overweight is not acceptable for OTHERS either as far as you're concerned.

Personally, I thought the first half of your post was a way to vent your prejudice and anger at the obese. If I had started a post by saying that I went to the market and saw a family using Food stamps, and then went on to express my disgust with people who are too lazy to get jobs and therefore rely on Welfare and Food stamps, I'd be labelled a bigot. Why wouldn't the same be true for you?

Do you have a better word besides lazy? Someone who chooses an ECV because they are overweight and they don't want to walk is lazy. Medical problems, fine. Short of breath easily, fine. Renting an ECV so you don't have to get exercise, NOT fine. The difference between welfare and obesity is a big one. Unemployment is a problem in this country, as is poverty. If you're working and not meeting the minimum to keep your family afloat, by all means, use the system. If you don't want to work and spend money on new cars rather than food for your family so you get welfare, then you're lazy. Just like the sky is blue or the grass is green. I'm about 20 lbs overweight myself, but am not "heavy" or "curvy" because I have a small frame. I'm 5'3"-5'4" and 140. I eat bad foods because I don't have "time" to make dinner. I buy products with high fructose corn syrup and enriched ones because they're convenient rather than scout out a whole foods store to eat right. I work a lot and spend time on other things besides the gym because I'm lazy and unmotivated...but you will not see me rent an ECV in Disney because that is only contributing to the problem. Until these people take responsibility for their own actions and get motivated, the problem is only going to get worse and it's going to end up causing them heart disease, diabetes, hypercholesteremia, hypertension, and an array of other diseases. Obesity is on the rise like never before in America. Take off your blindfold and stop projecting by putting words into peoples" mouths. What she said is a simple fact.

 

[TimeforMe]

Missy Mouse: Thanks for your honesty--it's very refreshing. I, too, share some of the same bad habits as yourself, however, I acknowledge them as well and am working on changing them. Thanks for posting.

 

[FergieTCat]

Do you have a better word besides lazy? Someone who chooses an ECV because they are overweight and they don't want to walk is lazy. Medical problems, fine. Short of breath easily, fine. Renting an ECV so you don't have to get exercise, NOT fine. The difference between welfare and obesity is a big one. Unemployment is a problem in this country, as is poverty. If you're working and not meeting the minimum to keep your family afloat, by all means, use the system. If you don't want to work and spend money on new cars rather than food for your family so you get welfare, then you're lazy. Just like the sky is blue or the grass is green. I'm about 20 lbs overweight myself, but am not "heavy" or "curvy" because I have a small frame. I'm 5'3"-5'4" and 140. I eat bad foods because I don't have "time" to make dinner. I buy products with high fructose corn syrup and enriched ones because they're convenient rather than scout out a whole foods store to eat right. I work a lot and spend time on other things besides the gym because I'm lazy and unmotivated...but you will not see me rent an ECV in Disney because that is only contributing to the problem. Until these people take responsibility for their own actions and get motivated, the problem is only going to get worse and it's going to end up causing them heart disease, diabetes, hypercholesteremia, hypertension, and an array of other diseases. Obesity is on the rise like never before in America. Take off your blindfold and stop projecting by putting words into peoples" mouths. What she said is a simple fact.

I don't believe I "projected" words into other people's mouths.

Forgive me if I perceive venom, hostility or prejudice in your or TimeForMe's post, but I do. Just as you accuse me of being blind to a problem. I see your loathing towards other fat people as a reflection of how you see yourself.

We can sit here and argue this all day. Then again, we have, haven't we?

 

[Fitswimmer]

Until these people take responsibility for their own actions and get motivated, the problem is only going to get worse and it's going to end up causing them heart disease, diabetes, hypercholesteremia, hypertension, and an array of other diseases. Obesity is on the rise like never before in America. Take off your blindfold and stop projecting by putting words into peoples" mouths. What she said is a simple fact.

The key words here are "take responsibility". Until we all take responsibility for what goes in our mouths and what we feed our children we will continue to see more overweight people and rising incidents of weight related health problems.

I believe we have serious food issues in this country, we can't seem to strike a balance. I went shopping at the local mall with my 20 year old niece a few weeks ago an I did NOT see a lot of heavy kids, but I saw quite a few that I would have loved to buy a milkshake for. The girls were so thin that it was scary. I caught an Oprah episode at the gym last week that was talking about 3 and 4 year old girls that were already refusing food and overexercising because they don't want to be fat.
If we don't come to our senses about food soon, we're going to have real problems on both ends of the spectrum.

 

[FergieTCat]

I have read Fast Food Nation. I've also seen Super Size Me. Have you?

And you still don't understand the causes of obesity in America? Surely, you must have figured out somewhere that there's more to it than just a bunch of ECV riding fat people eating 1,000's of extra calories.

 

[FergieTCat]

Missy --

Let me edit this post to simply say "Never mind."

Go right ahead and post whatever you want about "these people". I'm sure it helps you sleep better at night.