The Power of Labels
Submitted by Ford Prefect on June 13 2000 11:48:58
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I was recently at a gathering of people from several different denominations. As part of an introduction, each of us told a bit about our background, typically including our own flavor of religion. Just from the names or type of denomination mentioned, I almost unconsciously formed certain conclusions about what each person must be like. Luckily, one person came in late and really didn't have much opportunity to identify himself properly. I got to find out about him from what he did rather than from the label he'd have assigned himself. Later, after I'd gotten to know and really like him I discovered what that label would have been and realized he didn't at all fit with the preconceptions I would have had. It was for me, a real lesson in humility. ---Ford |
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