LOL 6-22 Life Outside Labels

I love independent souls... Individuals that risk living life outside the labels society would tag them with. Take this mushroom- although it contains healthy nutrients like selenium, vitamin D, and iron and in addition, is low in calories, it is labeled "druggie" because some abuse it as a psychotropic drug. Sadly, I can barely even mention how I love mushrooms (to cook with and eat, not trip out with) without hearing my students snicker. To them, a mushroom is a symbol for drugs. It reminds me of individuals I know who are struggling to rise above what society has tagged them as because of their past or perhaps because of their family name. No matter what they do or how good a life they try to lead, they are always negatively labeled. I admire them. I admire their courage and determination to plot their own course, define who they are, and defy a society that often wishes to tear them down instead of build them up. To those of you that fit this description, God can help. Just like the mushroom in this photo that chose to grow strong in the cleft of a tree rather than cluster with its kind in the dirt below, those who hide in the cleft of their omnipotent Rock will always succeed. Never be afraid of who society labels you as... God already knows you and loved you. Jordan, thanks for the inspirational conversation. Love you, girl. LOL...