Reply #11: And many times people are overweight from injury or factors out of their control.

[juno jones]

I gained a lot of weight after blowing out my knees and involvement in a car accident. I used to walk (fast!) everywhere, hike, and dance all nite. Then in my thirties, my knees went out and life happened. It became a vicious circle, I needed to excercise but couldn't effectively because of my knees and other problems. Then, the heavier you get, the more issues you have, rinse, repeat.

I've recovered somewhat, albeit into a middle-aged world where the body doen't respond as quickly or as well. I find that I am less judgmental about these things. It happens to many of us sooner or later.

Think of the people who refuse to raise taxes because they might win the lottery. Think of the people who are sure they will win the health gamble and thus castigate people whom they don't even know for the sins of obesity and decline. Same psychology. They've already sided with the 'winners'. The rest of us are 'lazy' or 'unmotivated'.