When Labels Don’t Fit — and Why Words Matter

I understand intent.

I really do.

I can hear what someone is trying to say, even when the words they use don’t quite land right. And most of the time, that’s enough for me to move on without a second thought.

But sometimes… a label doesn’t fit.

And when it doesn’t, it’s okay to name that.

Today reminded me how easily we assign words to people without asking if those words belong to them. Not out of malice—usually out of habit, trend, or comfort. Still, words matter. They carry history. They carry meaning. And they carry identity.

I don’t knock people for what they believe.

I don’t tell anyone they’re wrong for how they live, worship, or don’t worship. That’s never been my way.

But respect goes both directions.

Understanding someone’s intent doesn’t require surrendering your own identity. You can appreciate the message while declining the label wrapped around it. That isn’t being difficult—it’s being discerning.

I identify as faith-based, not religious.

That distinction matters to me.

My faith is lived quietly—in how I treat people, how I listen, how I show up, and how I choose peace over performance. It doesn’t need to be announced, defended, or rebranded to be valid.

There are many good, accurate words that describe grounding, wisdom, calm presence, and growth. When we choose words carefully, we honor each other better. When we don’t, we unintentionally blur things that deserve clarity.

You can respect others without erasing yourself.

You can understand intent without accepting mislabeling.

You can coexist without compromise.

That’s not division.

That’s maturity.

And sometimes, Real Talk is simply this:

If a word doesn’t fit you, you don’t have to wear it.