Airlines Charge for Excess Body Weight
April 17th 2009 06:06
Airlines have always charged us for excess baggage weight and we all accept that but an American airline this week is introducing a new policy that will often force obese people to pay for two seats rather than one.
United Airlines has come under strong criticism for the new policy which will compel overweight people to pay for two tickets on busy routes. If a person can’t fit into one seat, they say, they will just have to fork out the money for two.
The move is due to come into effect this week but campaigners are calling it “blatant discrimination” and believe the problem is not that the passengers are too big but that the seats are too small.
United Airlines has defended its new policy saying that there are already eight other airlines doing the same. The airline claims to have had 700 complaints last year from passengers who were squashed into only part of a seat because of an overweight person next to them.
The new policy, they say, allows a steward to try to find two adjacent spare seats for larger people but if the aircraft is full, the passenger will be asked to get off and board another flight and pay for two tickets.
Under the new policy, staff will be expected to move passengers if they are unable to lower the arm rest and buckle a seatbelt with one additional extension cord
United Airlines defended its new policy on the basis that it is solely for the comfort and well-being of all their passengers.
Source: www.news.com
Image Credit: www.skynews.com
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Comment by Wilson Pon
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We don't put up with other forms of unhealthiness that encroach on others (e.g. smoking on planes) - why should we have to pander to the obese?
Comment by Lady Henrietta Muddling
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Comment by colocountry
I once caught a jFokker from Cairns to Weipa in 1970. My compatriot on that flight was a Thursday Islander who probably weighed 18 stone, or 200 kilos. I was on the window seat and spent the entire time splattered against the window. I gained a very personal view of the terrain below but I lved in dire fear that he would yawn!! Mind you, I came to admire these islanders for their their music and their resilience.
Col
Comment by Janet Collins
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I presume that because a pregnant woman's extra weight is out in front it wouldn't encroach on the neighboouring seat so it wouldn't be a problem
Seriously though, it does seem rather cruel and could be pretty embarrassing for some.
Comment by Janet Collins
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You make a very interesting point. Should skinny people get a discount? I guess they would have to be skinny enough to only take up half a seat and there would have to be another skinny person to share the other half. Otherwise the airlines probably wouldn't be able to afford to discount them
Comment by Janet Collins
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I've never experienced any difficulties when I have travelled. I get more offended by a neighbour traveller having BO or a baby crying the whole trip.
The policy does seem rather severe to me though but I guess if others are going to suffer great discomfort then.....
Thanks for the visit.
Comment by Janet Collins
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Ahaha! That experience has certainly stayed with you a long time. Travelling stories are usually some of the best.
Thanks for the visit.
Comment by Whitney
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Comment by Morgan Bell
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i dont know what the seating is like on United Airlines, but if its anything like Virgin Blue or Jetstar or Qantas economy the airline is probably creating the problem by designing the interior of the plane to be like a sardine can . . . im 6 foot tall and i usually have to put my legs to the side because there is so little room between me and the person in front, i dont know how tall men, like basketballers or those in the 6'4" to 7 foot range, fit in at all
although i imagine people that are so morbidly obese they cannot fit into the width of a seat would (could) be classified as disabled, and it would be much better customer service if the airline treated them as so and just allocated them more room free of charge, as they would for anyone with mobility issues or a carer or guide etc . . . i wonder if it is an everyday occurance to have such a large person?
Comment by Janet Collins
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Hahaha! Good point. I hadn't thought of that. I would think that at the least if someone paid for two tickets they would certainly be entitled to two meals. We'll have to take this up with United Airlines because they surely couldn't get away with only giving them one
Comment by Janet Collins
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You always come up with creative alternatives. And you are right. The airlines could possibly come up with some solution by designing the seating better. They allow for other things like babies, etc.
Comment by Whitney
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The airline should at least give them half off the second seat.
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Thanks again for the really valuable comment.
Comment by Postmodern Critic
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As for getting two meals - would you really want them, as airline food is mostly unappetising?
Comment by Lilla
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I*m going to risk the chaffing this comment may cause and say I applaud United*s decision!
I also agree with the two meal policy as the gluttens amongst us would relish the opportunity, and I think discounts on half price seats for the underweight people is also a great incventive to stop people from the madness that is *affluence* today.
Hahahah I like Epiph*s idea, they could call it : *Glutton Class*
Lilla ..
Comment by Postmodern Critic
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Comment by Tracy
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Comment by Lilla
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Why don*t you mind your own business. I will be judged as I write and if you don*t like it, too bad. I doubt anyone could mistake us as *on the same page.* Really, your reaction is so childish as to make me incredulous with wonder at its purility and bias, considering it was your suggestion. There is no secret that gluttony in US and OZ is at an all time high. Go and google some statistics on the problems this epidemic of a lack of self control is causing families, not to mention widowed spouses and orphaned children; and the consequences of social services now looking into grossly obese children being seen as child abuse and invoking the right to take them away from mothers who cannot care for them properly. What are you thinking? Your bile at me only heightens the hypocrisy of your true concern for these obviously sick people.
I think anything that encourages those who are genuinely suffering from gluttony to become aware of their problem (like an alcoholic has to) and learn to control it; is a blessing in my eyes and I am entitled to my opinion, whether you like it or not. Bloggers generally understand that blogging is all about offering opinions, especially blogs like Janets who call for all manner of people to come forward and offer theirs on social situations of our time. It is a forum E, not a dictatoriship for the brainwashed, okay? Now if that means that you wouldn*t hang out with me in the real world, so be it, but please don*t try and gag me on orble.
Obesity (like gambling or drinking) is a disease of the times and needs some measures of control. Pandering to those who have lost control by allowing them to continue to think it is okay is not only purile, it is cruel in the extreme especially to those who have lost control of their eating habits and force their children to the same extremes.
As a social critic commentator I say again I applaud united*s decision to start to try and do something about it, to make people realise that there is a problem to start with, as well as trying to sort the issue of *normal sized* people having to pay for those who have lost their waist size ~ supporting it, as it were.
I see United*s decision as a positive step forward to helping gluttony and those caught in its grips, to wake up to the fact that they are out of control and that they need to take that control back. I think this move sends out a positive shock wave of empowerment to overwight people everywhere.
To me it is the same as US, UK and some OZ surgeons refusing to do heart transplants on those who continue to smoke ciggarettes. I agree with them too, would you call me mean spirited for that also?
Grow up Epiphanie, your opinion is not the only one and attacking those with different views is not an effective way of getting your point on why you feel I am mean spirited by holding my opinion . . other than its brevity because I am rushed for time sometimes as I have a real life, but again my commetn was based on yours, so I would rather hear why you feel it is mean spirited to call a shovel a shovel?
I have to go and get ready to go to work now, excuse me.
Lilla . .
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i know im not gunna get it, they will probably just keep decreasing the leg room until you (well i) have to sit with my knees tucked up under my chin . . . im thinking about selling some organs online so i can fly first class everywhere i go
i think we do get bigger (taller) on average as a species with each passing year
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Comment by Janet Collins
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PM: I think airlines would be too stingy to install a few larger seats. It may lose them a ticket or two.
Lilla: You did say you would risk the chaffing you would get over the comment. Two airline meals would hardly go into the "glutton" category surely. Last time I had one, there was hardly anything there
Tracy: I think it would make sense too but as I said to PM they would be reluctant to lose but one ticket by doing this.
Ruby: I've never found it a problem either but obviously some travellers have. Maybe it's just that on the whole people are getting larger.
Morgan: This is one area where a tall person has a disadvantage. I'm pretty average and even so, my legs are quite short in comparison so I never have the problem of not enough leg room.
Caroline: Opposite to Morgan I see. For travelling comfort, small and short is good. Trying to get some attention though can cause problems don't you think. Tall people always seem to be able to get people's attention
Comment by RubySoho
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But make seats wider? No way. It'll only encourage an unhealthy lifestyle*. And it'll drive up prices and that makes it unfair on the rest of us.
Yes, I know some larger people are actually healthy. But no-one can claim that anyone who is too big to fit into a plane seat is anywhere near healthy.
Comment by the world of gaye
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Comment by Mountain Fog
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QUOTE ME NO QUOTES!
then the hosties could 'stack em and rack em', everyone flies lying flat on their backs, and if they need a feed, they hit the 'stand' button, which revolves them to the floor position and walk to the feed bar...
so, BIGGER planes flying much less, so they are always full, and everyone flies on their back....I can feel an advertising jingle coming on...
flat back it on QANTAS!
and on a more serious note...
I wish to point out that a lot of obesity is also created by circumstances and the food industry. Lack of time to prepare, sit and eat well, and the abundance of cheap fast food outlets everywhere, has added to this, and more importantly, the use of trans fats and highly refined white flour has also added to it, exhausting the pancreas to the point it cannot produce insulin anymore.
I worked my guts out when employed by the film industry, 100 hour weeks were a regular, and carting, lifting and driving trucks and running everywhere carrying loads of crap was the usual order of the day, yet, I put on weight, because the only food choices I had were fast, and by the time I got home, by 11pm more often than not, and then getting up at 4am the next day, left me with no energy, time, nor inclination to cook, let alone buy food to do it with.
Obesity has many mothers..... it is not just simply some poor, emotionally crippled people eating themselves to death. The notion that it is all their fault is as simplistic and insulting as it is erroneous, and devoid of a compassionate and balanced viewpoint.
(you can tell I have nothing creative in my head for my own blog, waisting all this energy here...)
Anyway, in closing, why not create a fat person plane service? All seats are jumbo, as are meals, and hosties too!
Call the airline:
ELEPHANT AIR
: where jumbos fly jumbos in peace!
Another advertising idea...
JUMBO AIR...the airline where we can truthfully say...
PIGS CAN FLY!!
tee hee
fog
Comment by Janet Collins
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Gaye: Yes, it is a tough one. On the one hand you could think United Airlines were being pretty shameless and nasty. On the other, you could think it is only fair really because if someone is really all that large, they cannot expect to have two seats at a busy time for the price of one. It still seems a bit harsh to me.
Fog: Travelling flat on triple decker hammocks...love it. Hahaha - such imagination. It reminded me of travels in my younger years when there was a bus tour around Europe that people called "the coffin tours". It wasn't a bus really. It was a hugh truck of a sort where the beds were like drawers. Apparently, it was a cheap way to see Europe!
Your suggestion of a fat plane service was a good one too. Why not? There are special services for practically everything else
Thanks everyone.
Comment by Mistersmith
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SISTERS IN CRIME
Comment by Postmodern Critic
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Why don*t you mind your own business.
I find this line works better if it's at the end of a comment, though it only comes across as contradictory if you actually ask your addressee for their opinion somewhere in there.
Yes, I think declining to perform a medical procedure on someone because they are likely to endanger themselves again is mean. It's a surgeon's job to help those who need help. Maybe after a while the person whose life they saved will realise that they need to quit. Giving up on people is not a god idea.
I doubt anyone could mistake us as *on the same page.*
Yes, it should be easy to pick up that I am not mean, ignorant, homophobic, cranky, or a spelling-challenged.
I find it extremely offensive to call an extra obese person 'gluttonous', not least of all because 'gluttony' is one of the 'seven deadly sins' of the religion you subscribe to. I am also offended by Fog's 'elephant' and Gaye's 'fat', but at least he isn't suggesting that you will burn in hell if you're extra obese.
I never said that being extra obese is not a problem, I was offended by your choice of wording, which makes it plain to see that you're disinterested in helping this group of people. You can't help other people by insulting them, that just brings about bad vibes. People will be too busy feeling hurt by your abhorrent sense of humour to actually derive anything useful from you. If these people knew how to be healthy, they wouldn't be extra obese, so in order for them to change they need healthy, positive encouragement from people who are genuinely concerned. But you're too busy selfishly making fun of these poor people who don't know any better to offer something remotely like that, aren't you?
I think this move sends out a positive shock wave of empowerment to overwight people everywhere.
No, it doesn't. It's neither likely to prevent or encourage extra obesity, because I assume the language used to describe or enforce it is not emotive. If United directed affected passengers to empowering information on leading a healthy lifestyle, then it would be making a difference.
A disease is something which is passed on from one person to the next, which extra obesity is not.
If you actually want to be a responsible social (critic) commentator, you should try to develop a social conscience.
don't try to gag me
I've never tried to censor your comments in any way. Your defensiveness instead reveals a deep insecurity about the quality of your comment(s).
I notice that you never addressed my remark that extremely overweight people are stigmatised in our society at all, which is the issue I was actually talking about. And you're calling me a hypocrite, puerile and childish. Clearly, these things describe you instead.
LHM - Without a statement that the content on your blog is copyrighted by you, it doesn't belong to you but to Orble.
I wish you wouldn't mess your pretty little head by reading (much less trying to make sense of) my posts.
And if you insist on mentioning me at all, I suggest you very your (boring and ineffective) insults. i.e. You've used 'Post Menstrual Critic' already. As amusing as it is that you think I want to sleep with you, that's already been exhausted also.
Have a nice day, you perverted, misogynistic hack, until Jon bans you from the network after reading a post I copied and pasted from your blog, and unfortunately for you, gave you full credit for. Hint: You were inviting deletion.
Mistersmith - How dare I question your right to make fun of people! You poor thing, suffering from having to be nice all the time! What was I thinking, what with trying to help people be considerate, enterprising social facilitators instead of feeling so low that they take it out on others? How dare I suggest that you are the biggest victim of your narrow-mindedness? What will the world come to if you actually see a need to be pleasant, fair and sweet?
Janet - Sorry about all this, but I felt I needed to respond as appropriate.
Comment by Postmodern Critic
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Comment by Cheryl J
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They say they're discriminated against well boo-hoo, go on a bloody diet. And before anyone says that many people are overweight due to medical conditions, that's just horsecrap. Only a small amount of people are overweight due to medical reasons like thyroid problems etc and it's a very small percentage. Most are fat because they eat too much. Simple. I'm being discriminated against by being forced to pay for a ticket and endure being squashed, half sat on and uncomfortable for an entire trip. If you have a genuine medical condition that causes you to be overweight then present a medical certificate to the airline to only have to pay for one seat. If they don't do it under those circumstances then, and only then, should it be seen as discrimination.
Tall people can choose to pay extra to sit in a certain section that gives extra leg room and you don't hear them whinging about it. And you really cannot help how tall you are.
Now if they would just bring in something that forces people of any size to wear deodorant before boarding any form of transport....ah, one can but dream.
If I've offended anyone, well lets see...I don't care *sticks tongue out in childish manner* So there. Years of being pinned into my seat unable to use my own armrest or even move in my own seat makes me a little cranky.
Comment by Janet Collins
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Mistersmith: Thanks for dopping in. I thought Fog's comment was particularly funny too.
PM: You have every right to express and even defend your position if you want to so don't apologise. Everyone else is saying what they think, even though opinions differ immensely.
Cheryl: I agree that public transport is bad. The seats are really only made for petites like yourself, particularly on the buses. I am on the smaller side of average and if anyone even slightly larger than me sits beside me I am relegated to only three-quarters of my own seat. They don't have armrests either which means I can't do anything about it.
I don't know what basis they use for measuring a passenger seat anyway. It always seems to be on the smaller rather than the larger person's size.
Comment by Someone
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Let's Get Down To Business
"Sorry, sir/madame, you are too fat to ride on this flight"
"But I'm on a tight schedule, I have a connecting flight to catch!"
"Sorry, fatty. Not our problem. You should have thought of that before you were born with a thyroid disorder!"
Do they distinguish between those with obesity caused by a legitimate medical cause and those who just eat a lot? Because I would think if you had a legitimate medical reason for being obese, then that would most definitely be discrimination, wouldn't it?
I was under the impression that obese people had to buy 2 seats anyway. I used to fly alot as a child, but for the most part got to sit with family and so never had to experience sitting next to an obese person in economy before. I do agree with Morgan. I am an inch or two over 6 foot, and the last 3 times I have flown I have had my legs rammed up against the seat in front of me. In fact, I have struggles with the people in front of me who try to crush my knees by putting their seats down, so I always push back against them.
As a side note, I have a question to ask: Does anyone ask the person behind them before they recline their chairs? I do every time, and without fail people seem surprised that I asked. I thought it was a matter of common courtesy?
Comment by Mountain Fog
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QUOTE ME NO QUOTES!
Now, if you read my whole comment, you will see Epiphanie, that I try to put a very serious point across about the obesity debate, which is being turned into yet another 'disease' of blame, like type 2 diabetes, which I see as a convenient way of government buck passing so as to avoid the necessary changes to law regarding food content etc, and the proper funding of heath programmes (gym classes) for those overweight.
I, in case you may have thought otherwise, am over weight myself, and it is a huge challengeto deal with, especially when financially desperate, along with my other health issues which I will not deal with in this open forum.
Frankly, sometimes I need to send up a sacred cow, to laugh at what angers me, or worries me, as a way to diffuse its emotional grip.
So, in closing, you dealt with my "elephant" comment, fair enough, but chose to ignore the positive serious content. That is far from being fair on your part, as you did not enquire why I would make fun of the situation, or if I, indeed, was suffering obesity myself.
By the way, I left a message ages ago to ring me if you wanted to go see a stage show a pal of mine wrote, but you didn't bother answering...
cheers
fog
Comment by Postmodern Critic
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First of all, I did not receive your message... did you send it via Orble or my email? I have just checked my Orble messages and couldn't find it...
I already knew you were overweight from your 'mushy' comment (so am I, though thankfully I can still fit into an airline seat), but I was offended nevertheless by your use of 'elephant' (I now notice that you used 'fat' as well, which slipped through my radar the first time I read all of your comment). I think that you have internalised the stigma I was talking about earlier, and there's no need to insult yourself, you know? Be kind to yourself, and think positive - many people like you the way you are and just because you don't look like most people doesn't mean that your body is not appealing. I know lots of men and women who love BB (big beautiful) people. Everybody has different tastes so try to love and respect what you've got, because you're achieving marvelous things with it! =)
All the best,
Epiphanie
Comment by Someone
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Comment by Postmodern Critic
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It's one thing not to take yourself too seriously, it's quite another to degrade yourself. Nobody wants to be called 'fat' deep down inside, I believe.
Comment by Mountain Fog
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QUOTE ME NO QUOTES!
oh, okay, sorry you didn't get the message, these things happen, in my case more often than not.
You are right of course, part of my self-deprecatory humour is an expression of a negative self view, but, it also actually reminds me, of what I feel I need to do about myself, when and if I can.
To make fun of someone else because they are fat etc, I do not agree with, except, on rare occasions, if they are well known to me and enjoy that kind of banter, which means we both know and love each other as we really are.
Orble is not a good place to attempt this, of course, typing comes across differently...
By the way, I actually prefer 'Rubenesque' women, (as did Rubens himself) but prefer my men to be fit-ish..
At the end of the day, it is how we treat each other and what our ideals are, that make us truly attractive. I've known gorgeous guys (and girls) who turn out to be utter twats and immediatley their physical attraction ceases to exist, I cannot see it anymore.
Anyhoo,
hope all is well otherwise..chat anon..
fog
(P.S. Apologies to Janet for my dialogue with Ephanie taking up so much space!)
Comment by colocountry
Wow, you've stirred up a hornets nest with this one. Interesting that a minority clearly dont comprehend your role as fascilitator of debate on your site. In the main you have elicited a refreshingly eclectic set of views and have provoked intraspection from all who have visited, even if they didnt post a comment. Keep up the good work .
Col
Comment by alt_ed
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Even if you are already slender, who doesn't like a sale?
If the airlines were serious about their patrons health, they could launch frequent losers clubs, for their frequent flyers. Each time you fly you could be weighed, and I you reach your goal weight they give you a free flight or something... seems that would be more socially responsibly than just saying "You're fat, pay more!"
Comment by alt_ed
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Alt-ed: Glad you joined in and that's a pretty good idea all around. Wilson mentioned pregment women too very early on. Presumably their weight would be all out in front - not sideways - so they wouldn't encroach on another seat. Anyway, you can't fly after you reach a certain stage in the pregnancy anyway. Thank you.
Comment by Mistersmith
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Comment by Morgan Bell
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is David drinking his own mentral blood?
how many times is he going to roll out the same tired old lines and laugh at himself while everyone else yawns? (that was rhetorical David . . . ahem, i mean Teresa)
i like how hes pretending he actually has the opportunity to turn women down . . .
Comment by Lady Henrietta Muddling
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When are you going to write something worth reading?
Comment by Lilla
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I feel like I am treading eggshells here by replying at all, as you are so highly strung and quick to grab your pitchfork, but I understand all thoroughbreds are highly strung, so am not holding that against you, okay. . however, E you have laid some pretty serious charges at my door sweetie . .
No, but you are RUDE deary and way off base with all the above, well, I will give you that I am spelling challenged, but then I doubt you have been forced to immigrate to somewhere that doesn*t speak Engwish.
Now who is making it personal E? Hey Kettle, you ARE black too!
I might add that I have a very high IQ as well as a highly prized small waist, (which I have fought harder than the Biggest looser to gain back after having gone to a size 18 because of a very traumatic experience 12 years ago, which left me dead for several seconds) so, I guess ignorant is out too?
I won*t bore everyone one with the lowdown on how depression can make you overeat, and my heartfelt compassion for those who are *there* in its grips. Needless to say that once you become overweight it doesn*t stop there as the diabetes steps in and creates its own problems with thyroids /insulin and other body organs making it SO HARD TO COME BACK FROM THE EDGE with the demons of low self esteem riding your back!. My only advice is determination, antidepressants (for 6 months to kick start the engines) and a commitment to work out every day no matter how small the movements to start with and choose LIVE FOOD OVER DEAD WHENEVER YOU CAN.
E, I will ask questions wherever I like on a comment/blog, okay? I am curious.
In fact, I will make any comment or post as disjointed as I like on a blog, okay. As I said, please stop trying to gag or censure me on a blog, okay. I am not writing a thesis and you are not my professor. In fact you have the right to ignore me completely, as you have done for a long time now because you jumped to other misinformed conclusions about me, tar and feathering me with the brush of misconception. I won*t be offended if you do, honest.
So, to continue what I was saying before I rudely interrupted myself . . my typing skills are so much slower than my thinking ability and I humbly apologise if it offends anyones sensibilities and intellectual appreciation of our fine language. Its why I partly why I blog, to practice. Sorry, Engwish is my second language and I have always hoped that the substance of my rather mishappen, stumbling, incorrectly spelled and structured sentences make up for their grammatical and misspelt inaccuracy. At least (I note) that I have a good range of vocabulary compared to some, should we perhaps discuss their inferiority as well, or the fact that some people can say much more than others with only a few words. . But I digress … we were talking about obesity were we not?
As I said, (and repeat) I made the joke on your comment (mind seed). You actually thought of it, I gave it shape, and I notice that Foggily finished it off with great aplomb! Hahaha I love the idea of a flight a day that is for larger people, especially those who suffer from gluttony, depression, thyroid dysfunction and whatever.
Foggily; Fly Elephant Airlines, JUMBO CLASS?
A side note: No, I am not homophobic, as I said before each to their own behind closed doors and their final judgement day, nirvana, or karma as they please. I am not a religious fundamentalist. In fact, whilst on the subject and totally off Janet*s subject (sorry Janet but one must defend the charges laid at ones door if one is not to really be considered rude); two of my dearest friends are gay. Some are also mad too with certificates of sanity (perhaps something more people here on orble need [some time out in ward 12b perhaps]???). I have one dear friend who is a lesbian/bi. Worse : I have some FAT friends and a few OLD PEOPLE friends too. Ooh and one Jewish pal (oy vey); many wogs (like me), a black guy and heaven forbid, three really nice Islamic friends I have known for years (who may now be terrosists? Pah!). Three alcoholic friends, one druggie acquaintance, and a peculiar dope smoking, old hippy couple, time shifted from another era.
Gosh E, I even hang out with Christians, a Catholic (my best friend); Baptists and heaven forbid, a really special 7th day Adventist family. But mostly Buddhist Monks, spiritualists, ufo abductees, geologists, a couple native American Indians, an Aborigine; a gaggle of environmentalists and geologists, police and rescue people. . and not to mention my dear apocalyptic doomsday fanatic *family* of nutters I see whenever the planets do something wyrd. There are a few academics from acadamia in there too, as well as published authors, publishers, poets and a few school teachers . . but I don*t want to start bragging.
In fact, I don*t think I have had trouble hanging out with people until I came onto orble and met all the nice *NORMAL* people like you PMC?
Perhaps it is something to do with virtuality that makes people so NICE and NORMAL?
And, for the record : When I say disease, I am referring to the idea of it being spelt DIS ~ EASE and overeating (just like gambling, over drinking, drug addiction) is just such a thing. No peace, no balance, no perspective. Try reading a book called; Your Body Speaks Your Mind by Deb Shapiro, or grab some Louise Hay : You Can Heal Your Life. As a counselor in the real world, who actually goes out and helps people like You and Foggily and Someone (for real) to battle obesity (and these addictions); we discuss overweight problems, gluttony and emotional *hungry ghost* situations openly because overeating is usually a result of what we call *emotional padding* against the outrageous slings and arrows people feel from the outside world, but usually internatilised because of family and friends. Feelings of victimization, of loosing control, of not having any personal power left to say NO.
Those threatened because of childhood trauma or bad marriages, or feeling endangered by the *end of times* or nuclear war perhaps, or nihilistic tendencies of no heaven, God, afterlife, or karmic meaning to life itself? Some through past life memories (who need regressing), financial investments that went wrong, failed business, incest resulting in depression and melancholy, loss of family etc . . but nearly ALWAYS because of deep sensitivities that are not being realised, met or adressed by the proper conditions needed to help clear them. Emotions that are not being HEALED because of the rage that holds the person prisoner, stuck fast, unable to progress. Often because of the inability to look at themselves or accept the thing that has happened. My job as an energy healer is to budge them onwards by helping them recognise where they are stuck. But I won*t bore you with the joy my work offers me in helping people heal their problems, as you probably have your own joy from your own work to keep you happy.
Foggily, Someone, PMC
I can only pass on my personal experience, and I survive the fast paced hectic lifestyle by choosing Live over Dead without exception when I am out and about, AND without any bread. It doesn*t matter if you eat twice as much this way, just make it live over dead and don*t add Bread! You will loose weight. Also, just stop eating wheat/bread and drinking soft drinks and more than one cup of coffee altogether in or out!. Try decaff coffee. I lost two dress sizes this way and one more by adding a 30 minute workout three times a week. I am older than you guys and it took longer, but in one year I have dropped three sizes. I don*t know what that equates to in Kilos as I found weighing myself regularly was too depressing as a female gains weight each month anyway.
Some may argue that it costs more to eat LIVE over DEAD and no BREAD, but then does it? In the long run I have noticed that most people loose their health to gain their wealth and then have to spend that wealth in the latter years to regain their health. It seems silly to me.
As for the airline problem?
God knows what they*ll do. . . no wait a minute, they have already done it. It costs money to lift weight off the ground, I guess that is the bottom line (pardon the pun) and I doubt it is personal. *Fatties pay more* is the message and whilst it may seem harsh, I do think it will start the necessary furor needed to address the situation and as I (and others have said) perhaps discounts for the skinny people will be the better incentive after all the liable and litigation this bold new move will obviously cause, (judging by the response here on this blog, which could be seen as the microcosm of the larger world view?).
It probably won*t matter in three years anyway, fat or thin.
Lilla . .
Comment by Morgan Bell
Deep Pencil
Business News
Movie Train
when are you going to stop obsessing over the blogs you consider to be not worth reading?
apparently theres over 7,000 blogs on this network yet you just cant seem to get past mine . . . sometimes youre even the first comment . . . i hope your overwhelming procession of "lady-friends" dont mind when you staple my display pic to their forehead in order to get aroused
Comment by Lilla
From The Home Front
Enviro Warrior
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
Thank you for your earlier comment.
*slapping forehead*
unbelievable!
Lilla . .
Comment by Lilla
From The Home Front
Enviro Warrior
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
I am envisioning having to jump up onto the scales now after my luggage to see if I qualify for my discount points for the next flight!
Bravo, this is such a comedy sketch, the stuff great shows like Saturday Night Live and Big Girls Bra was made off (and its predecessor . . I have a mental block on its name).
I often see life in this way (daily actually) . . comedy sketches everywhere!
Lilla ..
Comment by Lady Henrietta Muddling
Potter in a Harry
Does it bother you that Teresa exists?
Comment by alt_ed
Alted Opinion
ArtCombat
The Inner Saintdom
That's what makes my plan so good; they already have the scales!
Of course, it would be your choice to jump on after your luggage and see if your slender waist is enough to get you over the discount line
Comment by Lilla
From The Home Front
Enviro Warrior
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
What excitment I would have queing up.. can you imagine it, all the passengers waiting to *jump on* to see if they qualify for their Lite Flight Points?
Great incentive indeed!
Ps Fast Forward was the comedy show I was thinking of.. a perfect take off *pardon the pun*
Comment by alt_ed
Alted Opinion
ArtCombat
The Inner Saintdom
Comment by Postmodern Critic
Postmodern Critic
Relativity Watch
Padsoc
I am completely at a loss as to how you have construed my comments as designed to 'gag' you. I will passionately defend your right to voice your or anybody else's opinion, no matter how strongly I may disagree with said opinion. I am an activist for non-totalitarianism and democracy, having experienced Communism first-hand through growing up in Bulgaria until the age of seven (if we're going to get into our personal histories).
Oops, I have to go now, but to your insistence that I stop trying to censor you, I say: ... Huh?
Will get back to you later.
Comment by Morgan Bell
Deep Pencil
Business News
Movie Train
you are your alternate gender personas can exist all you like, but that doesnt mean you have a right to bully anyone else out of existance
Comment by alt_ed
Alted Opinion
ArtCombat
The Inner Saintdom
I guess you could take a spoon full (or more!) of your own medicine and harden the fuck up!
Don't preach about what you don't know, it just makes you seem like the desperate popular jock, who sadly, never had the insight the realise that being a nasty jerk out side of the school yard has little appeal to women.
Why how I am fascinated by a man posing as a woman, posing as a man who is a woman... now I'm confused, which one of us is meant to be gay?
As I said, grow up David. Stop masquerading as a child, and start acting like the man you so proudly claim to be.
Comment by Lady Henrietta Muddling
Potter in a Harry
I was wondering when you'd come back on Orble to do Morgan's dirty work for her. Are you over Jon's little telling off?
Comment by alt_ed
Alted Opinion
ArtCombat
The Inner Saintdom
If you make mention of me in a comment, I will respond!
Comment by Lady Henrietta Muddling
Potter in a Harry
You need to learn to read. It's that simple.
Comment by Lady Henrietta Muddling
Potter in a Harry
I've read a lot of comments on the net about how guys are internet experts.
I don't believe any of them. They're heroes in their own hard-drives.
You just confirmed my opinon of you.
Comment by RubySoho
Music Zone
Thought Zone
you are a condescending prick. It's that simple.
Comment by Lady Henrietta Muddling
Potter in a Harry
While you're all attacking me, you're not writing any posts.
Think about your Karma.
Comment by alt_ed
Alted Opinion
ArtCombat
The Inner Saintdom
The Alt_ed Opinion Complaints Department on:
61 418 818 876
Comment by Lady Henrietta Muddling
Potter in a Harry
Now I have a link to tell the police about. I was waiting for that. Please stay on Orble. The police have great technology.
Comment by Lady Henrietta Muddling
Potter in a Harry
Comment by RubySoho
Music Zone
Thought Zone
p.s karma points have more to do with how much you comment, not how much you post. you need to learn to Orble. it's that simple.
Comment by Lady Henrietta Muddling
Potter in a Harry
I think you just crossed the line on technology. But thanks mate. YOu just did me the biggest favour.
Comment by Lady Henrietta Muddling
Potter in a Harry
Comment by RubySoho
Music Zone
Thought Zone
Comment by Lady Henrietta Muddling
Potter in a Harry
She'll have something to read when she gets home.
Comment by Lady Henrietta Muddling
Potter in a Harry
Comment by alt_ed
Alted Opinion
ArtCombat
The Inner Saintdom
Comment by alt_ed
Alted Opinion
ArtCombat
The Inner Saintdom
Comment by RubySoho
Music Zone
Thought Zone
But thanks for rekindling my desire to post more often. I thought i had lost it for good.
Comment by Lady Henrietta Muddling
Potter in a Harry
You can rev people up with a few words.
And then they spend the rest of the day justifying their own sanctity.
Comment by Morgan Bell
Deep Pencil
Business News
Movie Train
we all know youre a prick, there was really no need to clarify . . . am i a pricktease because i laugh at you and youre a prick?
the problem with you David is that you cant read properly . . . where did i ever say straight sex is bad?
also, are you really going to sit here and deny that you have created female personas on Orble?
you seem so stunned that there are people on Orble, other than me, that think you are a bit of a boring loser, a bit of a pest, a bit of a hostile reject . . . almost everyone thinks it David . . . it has nothing to do with me "controlling" people, it has to do with you being rude to them, thats why people dont like you
ive answered everything youve said to me directly
it is you that insists on drawing other people into conflicts by insulting them, if you address people by name its not really that surprising that they would respond
theres no fool like an old fool
Comment by Lady Henrietta Muddling
Potter in a Harry
hehehe
That's about all your comment deserves. I know you love it when Normie Smormie says hehehe and calls you Morgie Smorgie but I'm not Norm.
How many times do I have to tell you, write something worthy of reading and you'll get a serious response?
Stop this Cathy Freeman impersonation. All she ever does is giggle. Hehehe
Comment by Carolyn Cordon
Light Within
How do You Express Your Creativity?
Food Leaf
Comment by alt_ed
Alted Opinion
ArtCombat
The Inner Saintdom
Comment by RubySoho
Music Zone
Thought Zone
Comment by alt_ed
Alted Opinion
ArtCombat
The Inner Saintdom
Comment by Morgan Bell
Deep Pencil
Business News
Movie Train
could you be any more jealous of Norm?
at least hes a human being . . .
for the millionth time David, i am not seeking a serious response from you, i am not seeking any response
i dont need an endorsement from Pauline Hanson and i certainly dont need one from you or any of your other female personas
hi Janet,
sorry about all this, but once your sexuality and vagina are brought into things its a little hard to ignore
Comment by Mau-Medellin
Mau-Medellin
Comment by Janet Collins
Acceptable Etiquette
The Social Critic
Janet Collins Blog
Thank you for stopping by.
Comment by Mau-Medellin
Mau-Medellin
Comment by Janet Collins
Acceptable Etiquette
The Social Critic
Janet Collins Blog
Thanks for that.
Comment by Mau-Medellin
Mau-Medellin
Comment by Anonymous
I see a few serious comments, then lots of vitriol and worse. Can't you just blacklist these people so this can be a serious conversation? (I'm also amazed at the amount of time some of you seem to spend here!) Okay, I'll leave you to it. Abuse me all you like, because as soon as I post this, I'll be gone for good. Sorry they're ruining your blog, Janet.
Comment by Janet Collins
Acceptable Etiquette
The Social Critic
Janet Collins Blog
Comment by Randy Inman
Waxing Political
Football Dogz
Comment by Janet Collins
Acceptable Etiquette
The Social Critic
Janet Collins Blog
Would that excuse you from paying for two tickets?
Comment by RubySoho
Music Zone
Thought Zone
I have no problem with sexual desire and intimacy. I do roll my eyes at comments which are used for no other reason than their shock value. You really didn't have anything to say with that comment. You just wanted to sound cool. But you didn't. Are you jiggy with that?
Comment by Mistersmith
MRS SMITH
READ THIS
SISTERS IN CRIME
Comment by Mrs M
Mum's Word
I actually have a comment on your post
Well no-one in my family is overweight but Mr M is 6 foot 3 inches.
We have been on long haul flights since having kids because as much as I know it would inconvenience other passengers I myself couldn't imagine having to deal with a crying baby. So I wait until they grow up a bit. But it's hard. It does affect my decision to travel. Sometimes it does bother me that people roll their eyes at me when they see I have children.
But having said all that, I am very conscious of having children with me and sometimes feel like a bit of a leper on the plane. I always asked to be seated right at the back.
Also, sometimes we just need to realise that we are on public transport so some inconvenience should be expected. So the question to be asked is, what is reasonable inconvenience? A fellow passenger leaning on my armrest? A child who whinges for 30 minutes? Two people talking a little loud?
These are inconveniences. Obesity is a real issue.
I'm not out to ostracize anyone but we can't tip toe around the subject of obesity. Ignore it and it will go away? Hardly. Ignore it and they will die.
We all need to take responsibility for ourselves. It's a sticky one. We don't know the circumstances in which a person is obese. Self harm or medical.
But I have seen some parents feed their children shocking diets and then just say that they are big boned.
I don't know what the answer is.
Cinema's have Mother's and Baby's screenings and also some have built crying rooms that are sound proof.
Fitting out planes might be a bit more difficult but shouldn't be dismissed.
Love & stuff
Mrs M
Comment by Janet Collins
Acceptable Etiquette
The Social Critic
Janet Collins Blog
Another interesting read. Using the shared armrest - I'd forgotten about that one but it often really irritates me that a person next to me hogs that without question.
I do also feel sorry for parents with young children but some babies - and children - cry and whinge more than others and over a long period can be quite unsettling. Even if people are against using dummies, I think they should make an exception on long haul travel.
Thanks again!
Comment by Mrs M
Mum's Word
I think it's a bit of wishful thinking obviously coming through.
I feel sorry to parents with crying babies. Which is why I don't do it to myself. I would be stressing about fellow passengers, about the baby, about the lack of sleep I'm getting. It's just too much.
The balance is to not put too much emphasis on the comfort of others at the expense of my own, I suppose. That's an issue for everyone really.
Who out there snores when they sleep. Or talk or grind their teeth?
I do think parents need to prepare themselves if they are going on a long haul flight to calm a baby by any means necessary. Dummy...brandy
For the baby and me.
Love & stuff
Mrs M
Comment by Mistersmith
MRS SMITH
READ THIS
SISTERS IN CRIME
But do you have an answer yet to my question:
What is bad taste?
Comment by Morgan Bell
Deep Pencil
Business News
Movie Train
Janet has made it clear she doesnt want any more bickering on her posts, have a bit of respect
besides, youre having a bit of a one way conversation, Ruby hasnt responded since the last time you addressed her
Comment by Janet Collins
Acceptable Etiquette
The Social Critic
Janet Collins Blog
Hahaha! The old brandy trick.!!
Comment by Mistersmith
MRS SMITH
READ THIS
SISTERS IN CRIME
Comment by Morgan Bell
Deep Pencil
Business News
Movie Train
Comment by Lilla
From The Home Front
Enviro Warrior
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
Mrs M has reminded me of a flight I took From Canberra to Perth a few years ago when my little one was only about 2 years old. Her first flight, she absolutely screamed after the first hour or so and wanted nothing but to climb under the seat in front.
The captain announced our decent into Perth, and ooh heck she began twisting and writhing (as they do) to get herself free of my lap and arms, in order to get down onto the ground under that seat. There was nothing I could do with her.
I must say that although my response was unorthodox, it worked a charm and all ended happily, so I thought i*d pass it on (may do a post on it later too actually), but the thing is;
I let her climb under the seat in the end and put my bag in front of her so that the air crew stewardesses couldn*t see her *sticking out* and we landed with her under there, as quiet as a sleeping baby!
Many years on, herself now 13 and a seasoned traveller having jet setted about with us all and by herself to Hobart last year, I asked her if she could remember anything about her very first flight and how much she hated it?
Her response was to say; "I can remember the noise of the engines . . this humming sound and ... um ... a handbag?"
Gotta love those kids.
Lilla . .
Comment by Mrs M
Mum's Word
She's proven to be right every time.
Love & stuff
Mrs M
Comment by Janet Collins
Acceptable Etiquette
The Social Critic
Janet Collins Blog
It is always amazing what we do remember isn't it?
Comment by Janet Collins
Acceptable Etiquette
The Social Critic
Janet Collins Blog
The little tricksters! They just know the plane trip is nearly over so there it's no longer necessary to make a nuisance of themselves
Comment by Postmodern Critic
Postmodern Critic
Relativity Watch
Padsoc
Mistersmith - You're just mad at me because David got banned... and if you want to follow in his footsteps, you're making a good start.
Comment by Postmodern Critic
Postmodern Critic
Relativity Watch
Padsoc
Comment by Lilla
From The Home Front
Enviro Warrior
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
I*d enjoy that (now that Janet has cleaned up the messier elements of our last few comments by taking away our angry gauntlets). I Believe we can discuss it amicably and to tell the truth enjoy nothing more than a good adult conversation. It sounds reasonable to me, I agree.
I will go over there, but please be advised my time is very limited and quite expensive in the real world, so my commenting may be a little sporadic, albeit, constant. But not evasive, okay? I really do enjoy conversation of a high order, but I do like time to think too.
Let me know Here what you will call the post, so I can find it without too much searching.
Thank you, C U on Padsoc.
Lilla . .
Comment by Morgan Bell
Deep Pencil
Business News
Movie Train
hahaha that was gold!
Comment by Mistersmith
MRS SMITH
READ THIS
SISTERS IN CRIME
Poor Morgan. She just can't get rid of me. Try as she might. The poor little thing. A day ago she was finished with me, and telling me I was baiting her. Boy she loves accusing people of her own faults.
I'll write it again Morgan. Keep going. I love the real you coming out on Orble.
Other people aren't half as dumb or unperceptive as you think they are..
Comment by Morgan Bell
Deep Pencil
Business News
Movie Train
i love how manly you are when you choose to discard Lady Henrietta as a login, preferring to push Teresa out of Mistersmith, all for miscellaneous reasons that could only make sense to a Great Mind
i love how on the one post here Mistersmith has denied being David and then gloated about being David
but most of all i like how completely devoid of logic you are, expecting everyone to keep up with your plethora of personas when even you cant
i said i wouldnt be visiting your blog again, and i will keep that promise, but ill visit Janet as often as i like
i wonder if you will be as entertaining once the blood starts rushing to your head again?
Comment by Mistersmith
MRS SMITH
READ THIS
SISTERS IN CRIME
lol lol and double lol morgie lollol hehehe
Comment by Morgan Bell
Deep Pencil
Business News
Movie Train
Comment by Postmodern Critic
Postmodern Critic
Relativity Watch
Padsoc
Comment by Lilla
From The Home Front
Enviro Warrior
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
.. I would add that I also sincerely hope you manage to shed those unwanted kilo*s with ease.
Good luck in all your endeavours.
Lilla ..
Comment by Cheryl J
Rhythmatism
Budget Centsability
I think I was sat next to the marshmallow giant from Ghostbusters!