Mirror Mirror

Unlearning Breaching Comfort Zones and Labels

Mirror, Mirror by Jennifer Allen

“We are much too much inclined in these days to divide people into permanent categories, forgetting that a category only exists for its special purpose and must be forgotten as soon as that purpose is served.” ~ Dorothy L. Sayers

In recent memory, I’ve personally been identified by various individuals that I don’t fit into a specific category of ideology, appearance, or mannerisms. To most, these observations would be construed as insults. To me? I see them as endorsements… at least the ones without the intent to cause shame.

I’ve heard them all, and each comment affects my psyche on various levels. The paradoxical roots of my upbringing have developed into an uncommon mentality that I cannot just reverse at a moment’s notice. If there’s any one category that I could see myself placed into, it’s that of a “free spirit”.

But what is a “free spirit”, you may be asking? People like this often….

• Are generally independent • Travel when they want to • Have unique hobbies and interests • Equally enjoy being alone or in groups • Feel comfortable in their own skin to love themselves • Love to take on new challenges • Prefer to enjoy experiences rather than collect trinkets • Are optimistic and carefree • Are very humble • Have a peculiar sense of humor

I don’t particularly excel at all these traits. I still have difficulties accepting compliments from time to time as well as some self-esteem issues due to bullying I received as a child. Also, I occasionally do slip into a pessimistic mood depending on the situation I’m in. Also, the “travel when I want to” option isn’t a true reality both due to lack of finances and time. For everything else on this list, I do try to uphold each of them to the best of my ability.

Human minds prefer to place labels on new people, places and things in order to become better accustomed to them in their day-to-day lives. In that way we build up a small layer of

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