Seriously...I'm Kidding
In between all of her funny stories, jokes, and puns, Ellen has some good advice and words of wisdom to offer her readers in her book, Seriously...I’m Kidding. Many people in our society would benefit from her suggestions and points of view about stereotypes.
Ellen talks about how “damaging” labels and stereotypes can be to people. Many people in the LGBTQ community know this firsthand because there have been plenty of remarks and presumptions made about us, and all-too-often those remarks have been publicized. Don’t get me wrong, society has come a long way and people have advanced their thinking and beliefs quite a bit, but the reality is that so many people are still guilty of having preconceived notions or impressions about those of us who are LGBTQ. Why? I think it’s simply due to an endless cycle of people just not knowing any better. Like Ellen said, “The problem with labels is that they lead to stereotypes and stereotypes lead to generalizations and generalizations lead to assumptions and assumptions lead back to stereotypes.” My sexuality and who I love has absolutely nothing to do with all of the other characteristics and qualities that make me who I am.
I try not to perpetuate the cycle myself and I do everything I can to give others a fair chance. We should all have the same opportunity to make an impression on others that is solely based on our own words and actions. I don’t want anyone to judge me or criticize me based on what they think they might know about me or what they assume. Like Ellen said, “I think it’s important to actually get to know someone before you make generalizations. And you can do that pretty easily just by talking to them, asking questions…” I’d much rather people take the time to actually get to know me and make their decisions about me from there.
Perhaps we could all make a bigger and better impact in this world by taking Ellen’s advice. “Find out who you are and figure out what you believe in. Even if it’s different from what your neighbors believe in and different from what your parents believe in. Stay true to yourself. Have your own opinion. Don’t worry about what people say about you or think about you. Let the naysayers nay. They will eventually grow tired of naying.”