I can’t stand the scratch of tags in my clothes, so I cut them out. One theory holds that such sensitivity is a sign of giftedness. Who knows. What I do know is that this princess doesn’t need a pea to keep her awake if the label is still in her p.j.’s!
Don’t ask me why I save them. Do I think someone will want to match them up again, like a giant puzzle of blouses and fabric descriptions? No. It just strikes me as metaphorical to free myself of labels and specific care instructions, and I like the look of the trimmings and the feeling of release I get seeing them detached.
Who labels you? Who can tell you how to care for you? There are plenty of instruction lists flying around the internet at the moment, and that can certainly be helpful for ideas and suggestions. Ten ways to live longer, 5 secrets to happiness, 7 strategies to calm your nerves. But when it really comes down to it, when it comes down to practicing the truest form of creative self-care, each of us in the moment must access our own instructions.
Sure, practices help. Daily meditation, rituals of prayer and creativity, yoga routines and good food regimes are powerful ongoing support for the spiritual journey living this human life. The caveat, however, is to be aware of your own best care instructions. If the labels bug you, feel free to free yourself and cut them out.
What care instructions will you follow… or not follow… today?
