My grandmother gives me compliments that make me feel uncomfortable?

Question

Today my grandmother came to my house and I stood next to her to see it I was as tall as her yet. I wasn't quite, but then my grandmother said, "You may not be as tall as me, but you're beautiful, and have a lovely figure." This made me really uncomfortable and I didn't know what to say! Am I overreacting and this is just a compliment or do I have a reason to feel kind- of uncomfortable about this?

Answer 1

I think she was just complimenting you. If you're still growing, I'm guessing you're fairly young, so it's not surprising you felt a little uncomfortable having your figure discussed, but I'm sure she was just trying to make you feel good about yourself.

Answer 2

A lot of people feel uncomfortable when they receive compliments, whether from relatives, friends, or anyone. In our culture we are taught to be modest and not brag about ourselves. Also, there are many factors that can lead us to have negative thoughts about ourselves and our bodies(fashion models, pictures of celebrities air-brushed to perfection, etc.).

So when someone compliments us, we can feel very mixed emotions - happy about the compliment, embarrassed about having attention called to us, insecure, hypocritical, to name a few. It is hard to know exactly how to react.

The main thing to consider (at least in this particular case) is that your grandmother loves you and wants you to feel good about yourself. That is a precious gift. Treasure this memory. And the next time you see her, give her an extra tight hug and tell her you love her.

When you get compliments in the future, as many others have said above, just say, "Thank you. That's very nice of you to say." You don't need to say anything else. And if you feel uncomfortable, change the subject.

Answer 3

I don't think that you are overreacting. If your grandfather has Alzheimer's he may not be aware of who you really are and my be associating you with someone from his past. The fact that your mother is aware of this and knows that your are uncomfortable with it is what bothers me. You should never be left at your grandparents house. If your grandmother had to pry his hands away from your thigh, she needs to do something about this. No one should be put in this situation and especially someone your age. I must say that if my grandfather did something like this I would insist that he be placed in a facility where he could be monitored and get the help he needs for this disease. You are a very strong young lady for reaching out to someone about this. I know that you have to do what your mother says, but talk to her about an alternative location for you to go when she has to work. Join the girls scouts club or something to occupy your time while she has to work. Most important this issue needs to be addressed with your mother and grandmother. Stay strong young lady.

Answer 4

You have a very poor sense of judgement. Your grandmother just gave you a very good kind compliment and you feel uncomfortable about it. She probably felt that you might not be as tall as her (your genes to be blamed) but she feels your beauty and figure will make up for your potential lack of height.

Answer 5

you've got to be kidding me! Your grandmother telling you that you're beautiful and that you have a great figure makes you uncomfortable??

You know, i understand that you're probably young and not that secure with your body, but really...

There are so many bad parents and grandparents out there that don't know how to do anything but emotionally abuse children and you're worried that Granny's thinking you're hot???

What you need to do is take a good look at yourself and a good look at your loving and so sweet Grandma and thank the Lord everyday that you have such a special and supportive woman in your life!

One day you will look back on this and realize that you have great self confidence cuz you had such a wonderful and complimentary Grandma!!!

Treasure her!!!

Answer 6

I think you are overreacting to your grandmothers compliment. Really, it seems that she was trying to say something that would make you more confident given that you stood next to her and failed to meet the height requirement. That is what grandma's do, they say and do things that make you forget about your shortcomings, and try to make you feel as comfortable and confident as possible. Next time, a nice smile and a thank you....would be a better response.

Answer 7

I am not sure WHY this would make you uncomfortable. It was indeed a nice compliment, and probably was very sincere. You are lucky to have a Grandma who notices you, and takes time to compliment you like that. She loves you I am sure.

Answer 8

I think that your grandmother was very sensitive and could tell you may still be a little uncertain about who and what you are growing into. She wanted to let you know what she saw- I think it's a lovely compliment and your grandmother must love you very much. Say thanks and give her a hug.

Answer 9

I think it's just a grandmother thing. My grandmother used to on about my "lovely child-bearing hips". I was only 15 at the time. I wouldn't worry about it, she's obviously proud of you.

Answer 10

Just want to point out, if a male collegue at work, or a male teacher at school said that to you, you should feel uncomfortable. But with your Granny, it is just a compliment out of her kind heart. It is just on the same level as you pointing out a model in a magazine and saying to a femail friend "I think she is pretty...". No neet to feel uncomfortable.