Pandemic Weight

Summary

The web content is a reflective poem that discusses the personal impact of the pandemic, focusing on weight gain and the emotional journey towards self-forgiveness and resilience.

Abstract

The poem titled "Pandemic Weight" delves into the author's experience during the pandemic, highlighting the unexpected weight gain due to increased consumption and the shame associated with it. The author confronts their changed physical appearance and offers self-forgiveness, drawing parallels between the struggle to lose weight and overcoming post-traumatic stress from lockdown trauma. Despite the challenges, the poem concludes with gratitude for survival and a commitment to self-improvement.

Opinions

The author acknowledges the pandemic's role in their unexpected weight gain and the subsequent feelings of shame.
There is a recognition that the process of reversing the physical changes (excess baggage) will be a long-term commitment, similar to healing from psychological trauma.
The poem expresses a sense of humility and thankfulness for having survived the pandemic, suggesting a perspective of personal growth amidst adversity.
The author emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and the personal obligation to work towards a healthier self, both physically and mentally.
The poem subtly critiques the societal norms around body image, particularly during a time of global crisis where survival and well-being should take precedence over appearances.

A humbling reflection

When the pandemic struck it brought horror and disease to a world unprepared. Most thought they had little to gain until our bellies extended, our waists expanded, and we learned we were wrong.

The excess consumption, it didn’t happen overnight, but as my body doubled, then tripled, shame grew a double chin.

I offered my mirrored reflection forgiveness, despite knowing my excess baggage would take years to undo; not unlike post-traumatic stress I suffered from lockdown trauma.

Still, I continued to thrive, was glad I survived, and thanked God I’m alive.

If nothing else, I owed myself that.

Sharing the love.

One of mine,

A REFLECTION POETRY PROMPT

Pandemic Weight

A humbling reflection

reflection

an eerie poem for the 3am reader

In Search of Our Best Selves

We find different paths — here is mine.

Eating Frosted Flakes with Chopsticks

A camping trip in Northern Japan