Labels. We all use them at times and whether it is right or wrong we do tend to label things. Sometimes labels are the thing that stick with you long after they are given.

Labels can be assigned due to characteristics or behavior. When we use labels in this way it really does limit our ability to get to know other aspects of that person. Sometimes labels can be very destructive.

The thing about labels is that they may not be accurate. The negative labels that we carry with us are really not a true indication of who we are but sometimes they just stick with us. That is the unfortunate part of labels. A negative label can make each person feel that that is the truth about them even if it is not and it can be difficult to move on from that.

But today I offer the idea that sometimes labels are important.

Especially when storing something in the freezer.

I had thawed out some chili (it was chili weather when we got home from Ohio) and we had some for lunch. The next day I found another container in the freezer (unlabeled) and threw it in my bowl with a tiny bit of the leftovers.

Guess what? It wasn’t chili.

It was spaghetti sauce.

So in this case, yes, labels mattered. In the case with labeling humans by characteristics and behaviors – not so helpful.

Tell me – have you overcome a negative label that someone gave you years ago? I would love to hear about it so leave me a comment and Comment for.a Cause for Operation KeepSafe – Dementia Society of America.