The hate began when a boy called me “fatass” in 7th grade. Since then I’ve been struggling with myself to either accept or change myself, going through diet after diet or on and off days at the gym. I never felt comfortable in my own skin. Any time I heard whispering or giggling I always assumed it’s people making fun of the way I look.

But ever since I’ve come to college (it’s my first year) I’ve gradually come to terms with my body. I’ve lost 14 pounds the healthy way since I left home and have gained some confidence through it. I know I will never be a size 0. But hell, who needs to be? I’ve spent hours looking at the girls on this page and every single one is beautiful. They don’t need to have 3% body fat to be gorgeous, and neither do I.

Stay chubby. Stay beautiful.