Member-only story
Fat Shaming Done Right? I Don’t Eat Anything I Can’t Spell
“You must be the Spelling Bee champion of the world!”
Shame should be reserved for the things we choose to do, not the circumstances that life puts on us. — Ann Patchett
A few years ago, I was hosting detention when two students got into a roasting session — keep in mind they weren’t allowed to talk. However, it was one of those days where I was through, completely over everything school-related. In fact, I hadn’t smiled since first block, and that’s because it was my planning period. I was grading papers, making plans via my smartphone, and mulling what to eat for dinner…and then I heard it: a joke that shook up the world and reminded why I love kids so much!
“You’re fat! You got two necks and two chins, you overweight [expletive].”
“At least I’m not a retard, [expletive]. What’s your grade in this class? A 13? Dude, you’re older than your grade!”
At this point, I’m smiling from behind my computer screen, but also prepared to halt the verbal joust before it gets too serious.
“I’d rather be stupid than fat! No girls want you, bro. You probably go home and beat-off every night.”
“Was that supposed to be a joke? C’mon, son, everyone beats their meat. And I’m…
