I’ve been called all kinds of name-‘chotu’, ‘baccha’, ‘shorty’, ‘kiddo’, ‘half ticket’ and what not…
I’ve had to stand right in front of the line during Physical Training classes in school, which was kind of an embarrassment. Also, I could never beat anyone at long jump because, sadly, my short legs never allowed me a long enough jump. And hurdle races were totally out of the question.
For group pictures too, I was especially asked to stand in front because obviously I’d be hidden by the tall ones.
I was and still am often asked to shop in the kids section as I would probably only find my size there.
And finally, how I wish I’d be called ‘sexy’; unfortunately, I have to make do with words like ‘cute’ and ‘sweet’!
Yes, I’ve faced all the short girl problems you could possibly imagine.
I often asked myself why the tall ones weren’t the butt of as many jokes as the short ones are. But as I grew up, I realised how silly it was to even bother. In fact, I think the benefits of being a short girl far outnumbered the negatives.
Trust me, I’ve learnt from experience. I can weave my way through a huge crowd quite easily. I can wear the highest possible heels with swag all the time. I look perfectly good in a micro-mini dress, because they’re never as short on me. When I buy fabric to get a dress stitched, I obviously end up paying less because I don’t need as much material. I can be cuddled so easily that people who love me keep wrapping their arms around me. What more could I ask for?
Why should petty body issues matter? I’ve learnt that whether you are tall or short, fat or thin, fair or dark, you should be proud of who you are. And carry yourself with confidence! People find it harder to make fun of confident people.
Today, I can say I’m a short girl, and I’m proud to be one!
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