Please post a picture of YOU!!!!!!

 I am the first to admit there were almost no pictures of me preop because I was so ashamed of how I looked I didn't want to have the visual reality to confront.  So I understand.......and I know that some people prefer a level of anonymity on an on-line support source.  I just want to say that when I read a post by someone who has a picture of a flower or a dog or a car I feel such a "I want to see that person....see their eyes......" because it helps me connect.  I get told all the time I need to smile in my pictures (I do have some smiling ones now!) but that's ok.   OH is a daily source of support for me and has been for over 4 years.  I would not have gotten through the last four years without the support of some very dear friends and lot of nice acquaintances here in OH world.   I love to see your faces!   If it's outside your comfort zone give it a try.  It is a first step toward self-love.  I've learned that.    Susan

There are other message boards where I wouldn't ever consider posting an actual picture of myself. Hell, I don't HAVE many pics of myself, because I just hate them. When I joined here, I knew I didn't want to hold anything back. I wanted to be honest with my challenges and hardships and I knew this was a place where there were many who faced the same things. Sure, I was opening myself up for criticism, which is probably my greatest fear, but I got none of that here.

So, I agree with Susan! Don't be scared. Post your pictures! It's tough to read a message board and feel like I am talking to a cartoon character! Now I feel like changing my picture!

 Amber: I am so totally addicted to that Pink song! I love seeing it as your sig!

It just makes me feel good! On my birthday, I made some self-deprecating comment about myself and my weight. My wife sang that song to me and it took on a whole new level of meaning to me.

So many people on here need it to be their mantra!

:D

I like to keep my Avi anonymous, but I do post pictures from time to time. But here's my picture above.

 Wow......gorgeous.....and you do look like your pre-raphaelite avatar!    Thanks.....Susan

Wow that's the nicest thing I've heard in a long time.

I think this is the first time I've seen your actual picture!  Beautiful!

Here is me at my next goal weight...back in 1997...

Thanks Steph.

 You are beautiful with or without a smile...and moreso IRL,, your pics don't do you justice and they are beautiful too.... My Al calls you the lady with the pretty lips and dancing eyes ... and I agree... I am glad to have had the honor of meeting you in person....

oops forgot before and after...