AND WHAT ABOUT THOSE GOOD LABELS

I had a very interesting comment via message about even the positive labels we place on people having a cost.  As my friend, Linda, said, "Why do we have to have labels that are supposed to define who we are? "  We live in a society which clamors to put everyone into a box and label the box according to worldly observations.  The messager pointed out the danger in placing even the positive labels on others.




BEAUTIFUL---this one can lead to the slippery slope of narcissistic obsession with maintaining the beauty you have.  As time marches on--the battle becomes more intense daily---and no matter how much money and time you throw into the endeavor---Mother Nature Wins!! 



GREAT PHYSICAL SHAPE---I could say--see above, but instead I will give you the facts.  As we age, we loose muscle mass---and to maintain what we once had begins to take more and more time and effort.  And, as I can attest, all that hard work can be lost in a matter of weeks. Pride in physique turns into embarrassment over mush.





SWEET---one of my personal favorites---you all think I am so sweet.  I have a side---which prays for God to smote the heads of my enemies--a side which can turn on a dime and give a good lecture---a side which tells what for in no uncertain terms.  My not so sweet side which I work very diligently at concealing.



SMART---there is always someone smarter---no matter how much knowledge you gain---no matter what your IQ---you will find a better at some point in time.  AND--the world is changing at a rapid pace--filled with information---filled with new innovations---who could possibly keep up?



SUCCESSFUL--the top of the heap--filled with accomplishment---top dog.  We live in a society which highly values success.  The big problem with success---it attracts many who would like nothing better than to topple you off the top of the pile.  It is a dog eat dog world---and the dogs are always sniffing around for their next bowl of success.

You do see where I am going?  I could go on and on---labels---all good labels---that we can swiftly become slaves to maintaining.  There is no shame in the good labels, but they come at a high cost and allowing our identity to be tied to them can be devastating.  SO as my friend, Linda, asked, :"Why do we have to have labels that are supposed to define who we are?"  Indeed, Friend, why would we desire to be labeled anything but what God has called us?

Who knew yesterday's post about labels and their shame would lead to today's about good labels and their cost.  I have had my eyes opened and plan to look at individuals and not give labels.  By stripping the labels--good and bad---I am inviting the surprise and pleasure of  seeing the individuality.  Truly we are all uniquely created---with no need for labeling!


 You made me; you created me. Now give me the sense to follow your commands. 
Psalms 119:73


9 comments

  1. Whilst I agree with what you say, Lulu; I am still confused. Why is the woman in the second photo walking like that? It must be very uncomfortable going to the shops. And how does she carry her shopping? She would give me a shock if she ran accross the road like that whilst I'm driving. I'd give her more than a label, I tell you!!! My language would be unprintable here.

    I wonder what label people put on me. I sometimes get an icy glance from certain members of the family that would turn one into a pillar of salt. What label would that be?

    God bless.

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    1. Thank you for a regular dose of laughter, Victor. There are times I take myself WAY TOO SERIOUSLY!
      Blessings, Friend!

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    2. Sorry Lulu. Did not mean to upset you. I agree with your post above. It's just that the second photo got me all worried. If that woman ran in front of me in the street like a lizard I'd probably need a new change of pants - the fright she would give me. Who is she anyway?

      God bless.

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    3. Oh, Victor,I am not upset and look forward to each and every laugh you give me! The woman---is some deranged yogi out on the street showing off!
      Blessings, friend!

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  2. I'll tell you, your right on the money...and I am giggling over Victor's comment--I wonder if we share the same family or in laws? (lol)

    Another great post, Lulu!!! Happy Wednesday Blessings to you, friend.

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    1. In-Laws? I can tell when my mother-in-law is visiting. There's a broomstick in the porch.

      God bless.

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    2. What would we do without, Victor?? Certainly laugh a lot less!
      Blessings, Friend!

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  3. Hi Lulu! I don't think there are enough labels in the world to describe any one person. As you said, we are all over the map! Sometimes successful and sweet, and sometimes, not so much. Much better to just take each other as we are, and realize none of us is perfect.
    Labels are a lot like judgement, don't you think?
    Blessings,
    Ceil

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    1. Indeed, Ceil, indeed! I for one don't need to be judging anyone else until I get my mess straight!
      Blessings, Friend!

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Your comments keep my writing and often cause me to think. A written form of a hug or a pat on the back and an occasional slap into reality---I treasure them all!