DEAR ABBY: As a flight attendant for a major airline for the past 16 years, I have dealt with people from all walks of life. I sincerely strive to make each passenger's flight enjoyable, and I feel compassion for those who are physically or mentally challenged, elderly, and children traveling alone.
For the past five years I have struggled with a weight problem and have been working hard to regain my self-esteem and healthy physique. My sensitive nature has been sorely challenged with comments from well-meaning individuals, due to my weight. Remarks such as, "When are you due?" "How much do you weigh?" and "How much longer do you have before you go on maternity leave?" hurt me deeply.
Abby, can you suggest an appropriate response to such comments? Regaining my self-worth has become crucial, and I must discover a way to continue my job as a flight attendant without further damage to my self-esteem. -- HURTING IN CINCINNATI
DEAR HURTING: The most appropriate response to questions about your pregnancy would be, "I'm not pregnant." People who make insulting comments about your weight are cruel, but if you appear to be pregnant when you are not, take it as a wake-up call.
I urge you to seriously consider a diet and exercise program immediately. Please, make your first order of business a call to your physician, requesting a referral to a dietitian registered with the American Dietetic Association.