As an intense, Type-A lunatic, you would think that I’d like labels. But the truth is, I don’t. I barely read them on tangible items, just a scan because, in true Denise-fashion, I know exactly what I’m looking for. Although I have to say, even when I was a little girl, the toothpaste label bothered me—why do we have to call Poison Control if we ingest something that we’re supposed to put in our mouths? Perplexing. Glad I’ve found a better option…
As for things without printed labels, like people for instance, labeling feels so prohibitive. If I call myself a vegan, can I look at a cannoli without your judgement? If she’s a bitch, is there a moment when she’s acceptable in your world? And days… does it have to be a good day or a bad day? The pressure we put on ourselves for this party to be epic or this workshop to be a record-breaking success can really ruin the moment. I’m all for setting substantial goals and crushing them. I’m a manifest-er. I make stuff happen beyond others’ wildest dreams (and also far from others’ dreams, but back off—they are my dreams!). But enough with the labels… for me. I’m just going to Be Here Now.
And come to think of it—rabbits get labeled too. They get wrongfully labeled as good starter pets or easy to take care of. Some breeds get labeled, often accurately. My Lionhead thinks he’s a lion. I have the bite mark on my thumb from yesterday to prove it. Other breeds get mislabeled, like the Ruby-Eyed Whites (REWs), otherwise known as Big White Bunnies (BWBs). Those literal labels aren’t wrong but the misconception that their eyes are “scary” is ridiculous! Those eyes are gorgeous, precious and those REWs are the best pets ever. They are like puppies without the outside walking. They are playful and robust. But wait… am I labeling? Nah, I’ll label this describing. Stereotyping actually, because there are some shy BWBs out there (yes, Chloe and Portia and Vanna White, I’m talking to you).
So I guess what I’m saying is, read the label. And if it sits right with you, go with it. But don’t be fooled by the label. Go deeper than the label. Make your own label. Find people, places and things whose labels match your goals and purpose. That’s how we reach some next level beauty.
