I was just a couple of steps away from my car when I heard Aunty Yinka's voice calling out to me. "Ah Ahn Bunmi, Oga o. Weren't you going to greet us?" I paused, turning with a smile, "Oh, Aunty, forgive me! I was just in a hurry to take off these shoes. Ekasan ma.Yoruba: Good afternoon ma"
"How was the service?" she asked. "We thank God ma, it was beautiful," I replied
"Bunmi, you've added weight o! Ki lo n ṣe si?Yoruba: What are you doing about it?"
Not again.
It was like clockwork, this predictable exchange that played out every time I saw her. Aunty Yinka, like your sweet but annoying aunties, seemed to have a knack for zeroing in on the most uncomfortable topics — in this case, my body.
Giving and getting unsolicited Body comments is a widespread problem that extends beyond secular society. While some may brush off these remarks as harmless teasing, they carry significant weight, often chipping away at people’s self-worth and confidence. They create an atmosphere where people feel scrutinized and judged, their value reduced to nothing more than the number on a scale or the size of their clothes.
For me, growing up in such an environment meant constantly measuring myself against impossible standards of beauty and perfection - Internalizing the message that my worth was dependent on my ability to conform to these ideals, leading to a never-ending cycle of self-doubt and insecurity.
The impact of body shaming flows into every aspect of our lives, affecting our relationships, mental health, and even our spiritual well-being. It breeds feelings of shame and inadequacy, causing us to hide behind masks of perfection while silently struggling with our inner demons.
But the truth is: Our true value extends far beyond our physical appearance. Our worth lies in the depth of our character, the kindness in our hearts, the love we share with those around us and most importantly, what God says about us.
As Christians, we find our worth and identity in Christ. In the eyes of our Creator, we are fearfully and wonderfully made, each of us crafted with purpose and intentionality. Our value is rooted in the unconditional love and acceptance of a Saviour who gave His life for us.
In Christ, we find acceptance and belonging, regardless of our flaws or imperfections. We are part of a diverse and inclusive family, united by our faith and our shared commitment to love one another as Christ has loved us.
The next time someone comments on your body or the body of another, remember that their words say more about them than they do about you while reminding yourself that your value is not determined by the size of your waist or the number on a scale. It is rooted in the unconditional love of a Saviour who sees beyond the surface and cherishes you.
And so, with a patient smile and a gracious nod, I replied, "Aunty, it's all by God's grace! Thank you for noticing. Take care of yourself ma. Odabo.Yoruba: Good bye"
