My Question Posted on Ask Matt

The link will only work till Nov.17 but I've cut and pasted it below. It is so exciting to see my name in public form. So interesting to be responded to. I respect and understand his view even though I don't agree. But I'm very thrilled just to see my name on it. Having someone give value to my thoughts is important to me.

Question: A thought hit me a few weeks ago about the show Reba. Perhaps you and other critics should recommend this show to the more conservative viewers. While the humor isn't always top-notch, it is a comedy that has values. The WB should stick it after 7th Heaven instead. To me, Reba is similar to Touched by an Angel in that the show quality isn't always superior, but it does entertain and have values. Would critics such as yourself be able to suggest this show to those viewers seeking shows without the trash found in many popular shows? — Janna
Matt Roush: Consider that message spread — but by you, not by me. I like Reba well enough, but I wouldn't go out of my way to praise it for its "values." I don't judge shows that way, and I certainly don't intend to skew my opinions for a conservative or nonconservative mind-set — although I guess it's pretty evident that many of us champion shows that push the envelope. Besides, there are those who would no doubt take offense at Reba because it deals with divorce, adultery, teen pregnancy, etc. You never know who'll be offended by what, so I'd just as soon deal with a show like Reba on the basis of it being a likably mainstream but unexceptional sitcom (while noting the enormous appeal of its title star).

Friends and Fat

a vent:
I'm torn with frustration at this time. I have almost always been a fat chick. I was an overweight preteen, teen, college student, young woman, and now. It is amazing to me to hear some of the things some people will say to me. I truly have grown somewhat immune to comments from strangers. However, when little statements come from those I think love me, I just want to block out that person. Does she understand that it hurts me when she says something about my eating habits? Does she get that I know I'm fat and unhealthy? Does she comprehend how I love swimming but have to talk myself into having the emotional strength to go with her? I hate that I have gained about 30 pounds since moving down here. Most of that is from lack of activity and some emotional eating. When people talk about my grandma they talk about her cooking the most. When I get home, I feel I need chocolate of some sort to make my evening better. I am really not a cook, but I've received the most encouragement and appreciation from making ice cream. Do you know how screwed up that is? I used to really enjoy walking with Carmen because I didn't feel like I was exercising overall. Yes, a friend can care about my health and even the ickiness of my being fat, but it would be so much better for me if she talked directly about it in love and not about my food choices in a judgemental way.