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Writer's pictureRetro Sonya

I got many unfollows for posting this meme:

Updated: 3 days ago

So, what is there to misunderstand about it?

trad movement, traditionalist movement, trad lifestyle, trad values, trad gender roles, trad family values, trad vs modernity, trad conservatism, traditionalist subculture, trad communities, trad vs progressive, trad aesthetics, trad gender expectations, trad marriage roles, trad cultural practices, trad and feminism, trad and religion, trad and secularism, trad movement criticism, trad movement debate

It's plain and simple, right? At least you would think. I got many unfollows over this one. But why? Misunderstandings happen. Did they think I was trying to make a sick joke or promote fat acceptance? If you think so, then you really haven't read what I wrote on the subject have you? You can check it out:



The intent of this was pure. It was only to reinforce one point:


"My weight isn't affecting you in any way, so why are you concerned about the numbers on my scale?"

The only person that should be concerned about that is me, unless I am so morbidly obese, I could kill over dead at any moment. Then be concerned. But that is not the case.


This is a personal matter that should be left between the individual and their doctor/nutritionist/health coach and not some smug youth online who thinks he knows what's best for you.


I got many unfollows over this, and that's to be expected, I guess. At least I know now. Well, unlike some people on social media, I'm not there to be famous. So, I'll let the ones who aren't vibing with me weed themselves out.


If this offends you, what can I say? People are offended by nearly everything nowadays.


 

Trad Movement’s Defined


trad movement, traditionalist movement, trad lifestyle, trad values, trad gender roles, trad family values, trad vs modernity, trad conservatism, traditionalist subculture, trad communities, trad vs progressive, trad aesthetics, trad gender expectations, trad marriage roles, trad cultural practices, trad and feminism, trad and religion, trad and secularism, trad movement criticism, trad movement debate

For those who don't know that 'trad' means, I'll spell it out. Let's define it.


The 'trad movement' (short for "traditionalist movement") is a cultural and social trend that emphasizes a return to traditional values, roles, and lifestyles, often drawing inspiration from pre-modern or historical periods. Sounds great, huh? It typically advocates for:


  1. Traditional Gender Roles: Emphasis on traditional roles for men and women, often promoting stay-at-home motherhood and male breadwinning.

  2. Family Values: A strong focus on the nuclear family, marriage, and child-rearing.

  3. Cultural Conservatism: A preference for preserving cultural heritage, traditional customs, and sometimes religious practices.

  4. Skepticism of Modernity: Criticism of contemporary social changes, such as feminism, secularism, and technological advancements that are seen as eroding traditional lifestyles and values.

  5. Aesthetic Preferences: Often includes a nostalgic appreciation for vintage fashion, architecture, and art that reflect earlier eras.

The trad movement exists in various forms and can intersect with political, religious, and cultural conservatism. It is often seen as a reaction to perceived social and moral decline in modern society, advocating for a revival of what its proponents see as more stable and meaningful ways of living.


trad movement, traditionalist movement, trad lifestyle, trad values, trad gender roles, trad family values, trad vs modernity, trad conservatism, traditionalist subculture, trad communities, trad vs progressive, trad aesthetics, trad gender expectations, trad marriage roles, trad cultural practices, trad and feminism, trad and religion, trad and secularism, trad movement criticism, trad movement debate

That all sounds great, right? Even I jumped on the bandwagon of calling myself a 'traditionalist' a few years ago while making posts about it using the hashtag #tradlife. It was trendy. It was cool.



After all, it was in alignment with what I stood for as a Christian and a conservative traditional woman... so I thought.


So, what inspired me to make that meme? Now I will delve into the meat and potatoes.

 

Trad Movement’s Defined Misguided Judgment on Weight: A Reflection on Compassion and Empathy


That is, towards overweight women, older women, and childless women. So, let's start with women who suffer from weight gain and weight loss resistance, shall we. And, in particularly; women (not men).

trad movement, traditionalist movement, trad lifestyle, trad values, trad gender roles, trad family values, trad vs modernity, trad conservatism, traditionalist subculture, trad communities, trad vs progressive, trad aesthetics, trad gender expectations, trad marriage roles, trad cultural practices, trad and feminism, trad and religion, trad and secularism, trad movement criticism, trad movement debate

So, I ran across a video saying that if his woman 'gains weight' that she should be thrown out the door. And women agree with this? Something is off here.


Here’s a funny thought: The trad man who sends his wife out the door just because she gained a few pounds due to a health crisis? Joke's on him! Imagine ditching someone who's doing their best to tackle hormonal dysregulation. Looks like chivalry and empathy didn't make the cut in the trad rulebook!


In the rush to embrace traditional values, the trad movement often espouses a deeply troubling stance against individuals, particularly women, who are overweight or dealing with health crises. This disposition is not just insensitive; it is profoundly absurd and contrary to the very essence of love and partnership.


It's important to recognize that weight gain can stem from myriad factors beyond an individual's control. Health conditions, medications, hormonal imbalances, and stress are just a few of the many reasons why someone might struggle with their weight.


To place blame or judgment on someone facing such challenges is not only unfair but also cruel.

Health and fitness should indeed be encouraged and promoted. A healthy lifestyle can significantly improve one’s quality of life. However, rejecting a significant other because they have gained weight crosses a line into territory that is not about health but about superficiality and a lack of genuine compassion.


If your professed love for someone doesn't come with compassion or empathy, can it truly be called love?

Ephesians 5:25-28 (NIV): "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself."


Love is about standing by someone through thick and thin, through all the ups and downs life throws their way. It's about offering support, understanding, and kindness, not judgment and rejection.


 

((I bet you don't have a man.))


I bet you I do. I am powerful with or without a partner.


((If you stay thin and healthy all of your life, most men would appreciate that. The reason why you've become invisible to men is because you've hit the wall. You have lost your youth, your fertility, and have no children. Not very 'traditional' of you. Why not try to be what a woman is supposed to be?))


It's just like what Sherry said (speaking from the point of view of a single or married woman):

Well, now look at you, sharing your misguided manly opinions with a woman, as if we should care. I don't need some red-pilled man (or woman) to validate my worth or define my happiness. Here is something for you to think about:


My life is not centered around pandering to the male gaze.

The fact that you think any "sensible man" would not want a woman like me shows your ignorance. It does, however; show the impression that you think being thin and healthy is the 'magical formula' for attracting the male species. Sorry to bust your bubble, but:


We don't take care of ourselves for you. We do it for us.

And thanks for sharing your unsolicited advice about a woman's fertility and the wall she finally hits at 30. A woman's worth isn't based on her age, her ability to pop out babies, or the size of her pants!


If you can't handle the wit, the wisdom, and the self-expression of an experienced woman, I'm not sure you're really sensible yourself.

Do I need anyone else's permission to be who I am? Or accomplish my goals? Contrary to what you think, I don't have to fit into your little box in order to achieve greatness. Your pressuring of women to adhere to these ever-changing standards are not only unrealistic, but unsustainable!


I rock my own neon-lit style with the intention of going even further in life. Your permission is not needed. Here is the difference between me and you:


Your worldview is centered around that which is temporary.


But I say: Eternal value over Temporary value!

 

Conclusion


The trad movement’s stance on weight reflects a superficial understanding of human relationships. True traditional values, those rooted in kindness and loyalty, would never condone such a cold-hearted approach. It’s time to reassess and redefine what it means to hold traditional values, ensuring they encompass compassion, empathy, and genuine love.


In a world that often focuses too much on outward appearances, let’s remember the importance of inner strength, character, and the bonds that truly hold relationships together. Rejecting someone because of their weight, especially during a health crisis, is not just absurd—it’s a betrayal of the very principles that should guide our interactions and relationships.


 

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