“Do you play basketball or volleyball?” “How tall are you?” No, I don’t, and frankly that’s none of your damn business. Happy?
Being a 6’1 female comes with its fair share of struggles. From slouching in photos and disregarding heels completely, to awkward hugs and constantly dodging those, “Wow, you’re really tall” comments.
Up until recently, I absolutely despised being tall. To put things in perspective, I was 5’9 when I graduated from the sixth grade. You may deem me overdramatic, but my nickname was ‘Skyscraper’ for crying out loud. I would cry to my mom and ask her, “Why did you make me this tall? I want to stop growing.” I hated when she said it, but she always said, “Embrace it. You’ll appreciate it one day.”
Well… I’m almost 25 years old and I can finally say that I am happy and so in love with how tall I am.
It took me a long time to appreciate my height; everything around me just made me want to hate it. I’m usually taller than most boys, I can barely find clothes or shoes that fit, and I stand out everywhere I go.
My last two years in college changed everything for me; I grew into my height and even began to admire it. Yes, I did stand out, but that made me unique. Two of my professors once told me, “Your height adds to your greatness, Brittany.”
Of course, being taller than most boys has always been an interesting situation for me. You know what really bothers me? When a man comments about how intimidated he is about my height. Well, if you are really that insecure about your height, then I want no part of you anyway. You don’t see me saying something rude about your height or demeanor. That would be like me walking up to a passer-by and saying, “Oh my gosh, wow, your hair is so brown!” It just doesn’t make sense. Let me live my life without your commentary.
Regardless of those select few, I have met some wonderful men that respect my height instead of making it into an awkward obstacle.
I grew up thinking that I needed validation and acceptance from my surroundings, but what I really needed all along was my own validation. My height is like my own weapon; I can use it to my advantage. I can play sports, I could try modeling, I can reach things off of shelves, and I don’t have to sit on a guy’s shoulders to have the best view at a concert. All of these things are great advantages of being tall, but do you know what the best feeling is? Feeling confident no matter what I’m doing or where I am going.
I am grateful for all of the name-calling, insecurities and heartbreaks. This has helped me realize who I am, how I choose to perceive myself, and most importantly, how to truly love myself. To all of the tall girls out there, love who you are. We all have to stick together (and keep the tall boys for ourselves).
“Being tall is an advantage, especially in business. People will always remember you. And if you’re in a crowd, you’ll always have some clean air to breathe.” -Julia Child
Featured Image Via YouTube
