Transformation: The pros and cons

[aadroma]

If you would have met me about six years ago, I would say that I'm a very different person now, both in terms of general demeanor and certain physically. There are physical features that have changed on me that I'm ecstatic about -- my beard and my slowly growing physique are two of them

Comments

[aadroma]

Heheheh, you and a few others have said that, and I respect it, and that's fine. But as you've at least seen, the beard has purpose! ^_-

[greatbearmd]

I think you are turning out damn fine.

[aadroma]

For a change? I do too! I'm getting more comfortable with myself, so this isn't as big of an issue as it COULD be.

[greatbearmd]

I think some of the disapproving guys saw you as a youth/boy type for whatever their reasons, and you slapped them upside their heads (and/or private parts) with the equivalent of puberty. I've seen this played out before, and in some cases it's not pretty. I don't think I need to spell out details. Also, there are guys who see someone bulking up and getting healthy and this is bruising to some egos. I, however, see pint-sized muscly guys and instantly melt. =D

[bloody___riot]

Your turning into quite the muscle cub ;) I like it :D *thumbs up*

[aadroma]

Thank you cutie pie. (SNUG)

[sftekbear]

Yup. I just got a reaction this morning from a stocky bear I was talking to online who said, "Oh, you work out" when I said I was signing off to go to the gym.

[aadroma]

I'll be honest -- I was initially hesitant to make the connection between what you and Todd had been through, just because your changes have been far more dramatic. But in the end? Yes, the reactions have been VERY similar. Guys who once would go at it with you in a heartbeat now give an almost "how could you?" look, and you and Todd have both become well acquainted with this sort of reaction, I'm sure.

Eh, fuck 'em.

[sftekbear]

You can't fuck 'em. They're no longer interested. LOL

There's a lot of projection wrapped up in people's reaction to how others change, whether it be slimming down, muscling up, getting a tattoo, making more or less money that before, etc.

Sometimes it's jealousy. You were able to achieve what they can only dream about. Sometimes they view your change as a rejection of their lifestyle. I know a guy who was a chub4chub who criticized me for having surgery by saying, "I can't belive you would risk your life by having surgery." Well, how about what you're doing to your body - diabetes, heart disease, joint failure, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, fatty liver, and so on.

People will think what they want. I learned not to take it on as my issue.

[bitterlawngnome]

well I still think you're supa hot #1.

[aadroma]

You realise that goes both ways, right?

[bitterlawngnome]

YAY LET'S PARTY!

[aadroma]

I so need to come back to Toronto.