Jerry Post #1

I’ve talked about my identity in abstract ways: racially, in success and failure… but I haven’t yet mentioned some aspects of my physical identity. I’m rather short; in fact, I’m around 5’6”. Most freshmen are at least three to four inches taller than I am. For a long time, being short has been almost an embarrassment for me, as though I somehow am failing by not being tall enough. When I talk to taller people, I feel diminished. Even in the gym, I notice 6’6” guys around me, and suddenly, I’m not sure if I belong. Being low in stature has led to some of my worst insecurities, none other more worse than my body image.

I was once told by a friend that, quote, “girls are more attracted to men that are taller than them.” Now, I’m sure they weren’t trying to be particularly teasing about it towards me, but, once hearing it, I did start to wonder if this was true. Thoughts ran through my head. No female would ever want to date a guy who’s way shorter than them; they would seek out that taller guy instead. Dang, it went from “single for now” to “forever alone” in about three seconds.

I guess being short has its advantages. At least according to some people. But I’ve never thought of it that way. Now, with DN@ndover, I want to further explore the many “genetics” aspects that are a part of me… including this very topic.