What do you do when people in your local community appear to be against you?

This is what I would do if I were you and this is what I would tell my children to do. Just keep on being you. You can't go confronting people. You can't go around explaining to everyone why you are the way you are. The people that judge you and give you looks - are the ones to avoid in my opinion. They are toxic. If you think about it, what normal, nice person would go around spreading hate and dirty looks and gossip? Only unhappy, toxic people would stoop so low. Most people are more understanding and not so critical. So, if you find yourself surrounded by toxic people, what can you do? Nothing. When nothing works, do nothing. Just keep on being you. Keep on doing the best that you can. Smile, be nice, be kind. If they can't show you a little of the same in return, then why would you want them in your life anyway? Focus on yourself, your goals like you are doing at the gym and don't concern yourself with gossipy busy bodies. :)