I have noticed several new things in life. Some people that I thought were friends really only liked me because I was the "Big Guy". I was safe to be friends with because I didn't threaten to take away attention from them. That hit REAL close to home. My own wife actually said that I couldn't do any better than her. WOW! REALLY? Now as I am going to prepare for work soon I sit here at my laptop. Mind you, my belly is still large. However, I have made some marked improvements. While I am still approximately 100lb from goal I feel great physically. Just to let everyone know, the emotional toll can be very tough. Moreso than the surgical aftermath.

I keep telling myself that there aren't many 440lb 80 year old men walking (or lying) around. What's the point in staying big to appease someone else's ego? People like that (friends or otherwise) don't care. As you leave they usher in your replacement. Do yourselves a favor and only be concerned about what YOU think. What makes YOU happy. What will keep YOU alive, healthy and in love with yourself.

Be your own joie de vivre!

Have a great day, VST!

A quote from a "friend"

"I am so sick of this sh*t......just don't f*cking talk to me! If you are not fixing the problem maybe you are causing one. Why have friends when they are only happy when you are not....."

Like I was saying, a lot of people never had a problem with me when I was stuck at 440lb. The hypocrisy is at an all-time high! It still leaves a sore spot because someone I knew for nearly ten years never displayed this behavior until recently.

I don't know if I would be that harsh. There is a lot more competition between people than is generally realized. We have elected to undergo a profound and unusual change in our lives. This gives us a perspective on how others see and treat us that is pretty unique. I wouldn't use the new knowledge as a weapon, though, as we might act the same way were positions reversed.

Well, I visited a friend of mine today.. Who promised to stay w/ me when I was recovering, DIDN'T happen... anyway... My sister-friend and I braved Chicago traffic and trekked up to her house... She saw me and was like.. stand up and let me INSPECT you.. I was like.. WTH.. I'm a piece of fruit on a conveyor belt or something??? She didn't say, you look nice, I can tell you've lost.. This heifer said.. Umph you gonna be something else when you lose all your weight... Shaking her head and continued.. I don't think I'm gonna be able to stand you!!!

HUH??? And this is after I gave you bags of my very expensive, stylish and mostly NEW clothes!! I wanted to punch her.. but I love the Lord and He wouldn't have been pleased... But, my feelings are really hurt... But people are people... and need help!

Favoredone,

The only thing you can do is pray for her soul. She must be miserable.

I completely know what you mean' date=' I discovered that many of my girlfriends only were friends with me because I was "less attractive" but now that I am losing weight and more guys flirt with me or whatever they took it so badly and keep going all "oh its not like u lost that much weight and they look at you, what if u lose more, gosh, just stop losing weight" i really feel like this is pissing a lot of people off rather than having them feel happy for me, so i guess after my weight loss i gotta start looking for new friends, but anyway i am so happy with my progress and its their loss =']

I am going through this right now! Its hurtful, especially when you have celebrated their success !!