Because I have short hair, I'm a lesbian, right?
Because he wears skinny jeans and has his ears pierced, he's gay, right?
Because it takes her a little longer to comprehend things, she's mentally retarded, right?
Because she wears a tank top and short shorts, she's a slut, right?
Because they wear black, they are depressed and suicidal, right?
Because he's a jock, he's an asshole, right?
Because she's a blonde, she's dumb, right?
Because he likes video games, he's a loser, right?
The answer to all of these is no. No, even though I have short hair, I'm not a lesbian. But if I was, what would that change? Would you judge me for falling in love with a girl?
No, he's not gay. His style is just unique. So now, will you be friends with him?
No, she's not mentally challenged. But, how do you think she feels after hearing you say that?
No, she's not a slut. She just lost weight and finally feels confident in her body. Is it too distracting for you? Look the other way.
No, she's not depressed or suicidal. She just doesn't like to be the center of attention in bright colors. And if she was depressed or suicidal, would you do something to help?
No, he's not an asshole. He just enjoys playing sports and being a part of something.
No, she's not dumb. She has a 4.0 GPA. She just doesn't like showing off how smart she really is.
No, he's not a loser. His way of relieving stress is playing video games. Why does it matter to you how he spends his spare time?
If you look back at that list of questions, every single one of them is based on physical appearance. Not one of these generalizations and stereotypes is based on anything deeper than physical appearance. If someone falls under societies definition of gay, mentally challenged, a slut, depressed or suicidal, an asshole, dumb or a loser, who cares? Why does it matter to you? Appreciate and accept people for their differences. If everyone was the same, life would be so boring. Try to get past the cover page and actually take time to read and get to know their story. Everyone adds something unique to the world.
How are you ever supposed to appreciate who they are if you don't even take the time to get to know them or understand them?
The Ad Council released a commercial in March 2015 with the message, "Love Has No Labels," which changed the conversation on how we see romantic relationships. But maybe, we can change the way we see all human relationships and start looking past the labels society has created for us.
