The media has taken out after poor Meghan Markle again. This time, they’re saying that she had the nerve to tell her husband to lose weight. On top of that, they claim she’s started picking out his clothes. Where do they come up with all this supposedly inside information? Was a reporter hiding in their bedroom closet? Maybe someone noticed Prince Harry had dropped a few pounds , and concocted this story. But it does present a moral issue: Should you ask someone to lose weight? Should you help your husband pick out new clothes?
Body shaming is another matter. It’s harmful to make fun of someone’s size. My sister struggled with overweight as a young adult, and was often the target of ridicule. She ended up taking so many diet pills that it affected her mental health for the rest of her life.
On the other hand, what is so terrible about a concerned wife suggesting her husband lose a few pounds? Seem to me, it’s the caring thing to do. My husband has bad knees, and must walk with a cane. When he starts complaining, I’m apt to suggest he take off a few pounds to relieve the pressure on his joints. Maintaining a normal weight is also important for heart health. On top of that, he’s a diabetic. Is a wife supposed to ignore it when her husband starts packing on the pounds?
Research has shown that the loss of 10 pounds can lead to a healthier life. Benefits may include: 1) 50% reduction in heart disease. 2) 60% reduction in diabetes risk. 3) 50 % decrease in arthritis.
What’s so mean and terrible about that?
About the clothes issue: My husband always wants me with him when he buys new clothes. I can tell him which colors are unflattering, or when the shoulders of a jacket or sweater are too saggy—things he doesn’t always notice. By the same token, I want his advice on what to wear for special occasions. Seems to me that’s one good thing about having a loving spouse or partner.
So I’m asking the media: please leave Meghan alone. It won’t hurt Harry at all to lose some weight. And it might inspire others to do the same.