I was always slim and normal, but just a tiny bit bigger than all my skinny friends. A size 10/12, as they were 6/8. Men always said they much prefered my shape. After 2nd and 3rd child, I found it difficult to go back to being a 12, and despite being fit and healthy, and looking great according to DH and male friends- I always allowed my life to be ruled by trying to go back to being not only slimmer, but skinny. As a more mature woman alomost 60- I regret every minute I spent worrying about being a healthy, fit, strong and beautiful 14. Pressures from outside were always there, from the magazines and other women. Despite being loved and often, yes, admired.
So no, I cannot adhere to this new 'the fatter the better' that is out there as a reaction. Those massive women in the media, who seem to be pushing it as the new 'ok or even desirable'. Because it is truly unhealthy and a true risk to life. But if being 14 makes you feel like sh*t and worthless- time to re-assess, and ask yourself WHY. And who makes you feel like that. Probably not you, in fact. As said, body dismorphia is tragically very alive. Even at size 8- some will never ever feel they are what they want to be. More and more botox, plastic surgery, unhealthy and dangerous procedures, and on, and on, and on some more.
At the time of the menopause, my thyroid gave in. Despite treatment, I am constantly battling with my weight as I reach 60. And yes, looking back- I was fab size 14- and I wish I could have back every single second I thought it made me fat. Something has gone very badly wrong in our we see and value ourselves, and how other women judge us (probably worse!).