If you're looking for something to inspire you, then might I recommend reading about Modern Family actress Ariel Winter having breast reduction surgery. On Wednesday, Glamour released an interview with the 17-year-old, where she opens up about her decision to have a breast reduction. Her story is both inspiring and eye-opening, as it gives a look into someone's life who is not comfortable or happy with themselves. Winter demonstrates how if you're uncomfortable with yourself, it is your decision to take it head on and do whatever it takes to put that spark back into your life.
As Winter told Glamour, she had a growth spurt overnight that didn't stop. She said, "I was 15-years-old with [size] F [breasts]. It’s like, ‘how do you navigate that?'" To be clear, Winter did not make the decision because of the hurtful comments and bullying she received on more than one occasion about her body; she did it for herself and for her health because she was experiencing so much pain and even suffered from spine problems. Winter said, "I got it for myself. I can’t even really put it into words about how amazing it feels to really feel right."
As is the case when any celebrity undergoes a body-altering surgery, many people are going to focus on the physical changes to Winter's body, which she seems very aware of. However, that's not what is important here. Like Winter said, she is a new person emotionally and that's all that truly matters. "It’s amazing to finally feel right. she said. "This is how I was supposed to be."
There's so much good that comes from her story, including how she is going to influence many young girls also experiencing a lack of self-confidence, not to mention other people who harshly judge their own bodies. Body positivity is beyond important, especially for impressionable young girls. A shift in society needs to change when it comes to women's appearances, and, thankfully, we are moving in a better and healthier direction with help from individuals like Winter. As she said about why she decided to be open and honest about her breast reduction,
I also think there’s some good that can come from [telling] my story. It’s something that I did to better my life and better my health and I think that that can benefit a lot of young girls. I have felt more happy with myself than I ever have. I am living a dream that a lot of girls my age would love to be living, and I’m aware of that. I'm really grateful that I’m able to do that and have a voice that I’m able to speak to teenagers. I don’t want to do anything to mess that up.
If you are emotionally and physically healthy, that's the best quality anyone can have. Thank you, Ariel, for telling your story.
Be sure to read her full interview at Glamour, because her inspiring words are worth it your time.
