After thinking about this for a couple hours, I still feel really bothered by this conversation. Why should others take such offense when we don't eat their food? Shouldn't they be happy for us for making healthier life decisions? Perhaps even happy that we know their dish will taste so good we have to avoid it in fear of over eating. When did not accepting a plate full of food become an insult? Take a look around, one-third of U.S. adults are obese! (http://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data/adult.html) Why are we force feeding friends and family or making them feel guilty when they only take a small portion? I think, who cares if they are offended! That's an issue that they have to deal with, is their self-esteem so low that by me not eating a piece of their pumpkin pie it diminishes their self worth? Does my coming to spend quality time with you, visiting, playing games, etc. not show how much I value our relationship?
If you are hosting a gathering this holiday season or participating in a gathering by bringing a delicacy to share, please be mindful of others. You do not know the journey they are on or the internal demons they face. Would you offer a drink to a recovering alcoholic? I'd hope not, please consider those of us trying to make healthier choices as recovering junk food addicts (depending on if sugar or salt are our choice for binge eating). Don't belittle our goals or make us into the bad guys this holiday season. If you feel bad that someone isn't pigging out as much as you are at your next holiday gathering, take a look in the mirror, re-evaluate, are you really angry at the person making healthier choices or at yourself for not following suit?
Be kind, remember the reason for the season and enjoy the time with your family and friends!
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