What are Labels?

So many people have opinions, that they dictate their lives by, that are fueled by hate. There are entire political parties and social groups makkking decisions based on that hate. Decisions that impact lives. Let’s be real, this hate is fueled by fear. Fear in what you don’t understand. Fear in what is different. Which is crazy, because what makes us different and unique is what’s makes each of us so special and interesting.

Instead, we collectively live our lives in separate groups, which are grounded in shared similarities, and that is amazing! That is what builds community. However, we also turn our differences into fucked up reasons to hate, fear, and label each other.

Persecuting people, for their personal choices or hate/fear/judgement based labels, isn’t something that is our job to do. It is also clear that in America it is something that is happening today.

I especially stand by this opinion if you claim Christianity in any of its forms.

We are literally told in the Bible that only God can judge us (Matthew 7:1-2).

So why do so many people take it as their personal agenda to spread hate, and make decisions, that are founded in fear at the expense of other peoples lives?

If you hate anyone because of your faith, you are doing it wrong.

There are so many real stories, about real people, that are heartbreaking. Couples who are unable to be married by law (and reap the legal and financial rewards). Labeled as unnatural. People undergo unimaginable traumas and are judged for processing them. Labeled as crazy (and stripped of their rights or easily dismissed). Disproportionate arrest rates - across the board - based on skin color. Labeled as “justice”. Women (People) who are raped. Labeled as deserving - no matter the circumstances. The list goes on and on.

We, as a country, are more then what the media and social media shows us. I believe that we have the ability to be - collectively - better.

If Jesus made the choice to die for us, don’t we at least have to try our best to love *everyone* around us?

The elections are coming up and they are going to be a really big deal. Your vote matters. Don’t let it be based in hate.