For all us weight loss warriors, there comes the uncomfortable moment when our wiggle, especially during exercise, makes others giggle or worse.

Anyone, other than a young baby, finding amusement as our bellies jiggle, and boobs bounce is rude.

Unfortunately, overcoming others’ boorish behavior can be difficult.

One trick is to beat the buffoons to the punch… with a great punchline.

British comedian, Dawn French, best known for her Vicar of Dibley portrayal, once remarked, “if I had been around when Rubens was painting, I would have been revered as a fabulous model. Kate Moss? Well, she would have been the paintbrush!”

By referring to the 17th Flemish artist with a flair for painting luscious plus-sized woman focuses attention to your brain -not your butt. It informs any would-be smart asses you are a smart cookie not willing to accept bullying.

Sometimes stronger measures are required.

Although still obese, I was walking four miles daily. Dropping pounds my confidence grew – until one early evening.

Sweat poured down my face and my sodden shorts rode up my dimpled thighs making me a messy sight. Confirmation came from teenage boys crammed into a slow-moving car. Fueled by the artificial bravery of adolescent testosterone their abuse flowed like lava.

My feet moved forward.

The rest of me traveled back in time. Again, I was a chubby teen silently enduring cruel barbs. An urge swept over me to run home to the fake comfort of ice cream.

When their car stopped at traffic light, my confidence kicked in.

I marched to the car. The bullies’ bravado wilted quickly as they rolled up the windows.

My hands placed on the front hood, I stared through the windshield at terrified pimply faces.

“Little boys,” I yelled. “I am fat and you are stupid. Lucky for me, I will not be fat forever. Unfortunately, you all are facing a lifetime of everlasting ignorance.”

The light changed and I resumed walking.

The offending car silently passed.

Then the next car and the four following all tooted their horns. Strangers had witnessed my stand against bullies and offered support.

My exercise continued – victorious.

Yours will too.

Author: L.J Bottjer

LJ Bottjer is a citizen of the world, whose journey began in Manhattan. Now living in Northern California, her garden produces healthy food almost year-round and she enjoys biking, yoga and hiking.