Unique

I've been described as unique. It's quite flattering actually. I like the word, it's fun to say, and I feel privileged to be referred to as such. "people like you march to the beat of your own drum" my mother always said. and that was usually followed with some encouraging words added like..."You're an individual!" "You don't WANT to be like everyone else do you?" And I would look down and slowly shake my head from side to side. "I guess not." I'd softly respond. But deep down inside, I did want to be like everyone else. I did. As I grew older, and somewhat wiser, I continued to be odd, and to do things at my own pace and in my own way. I make my own music with flutes and key and voice. I use acrylic paint to put on canvas a collection of shape and color. I prefer my time spent with cats...7 of them. I learn stuff every day, sometimes in a class, most times in living. I've spent my career years counseling teens who've been labeled with things like "Obsessive" and "Socially Stunted" and "Unique" It's all part of just being. When everyone can just BE, the world will truly be a better place.
Alt. end1 I hope that they can come away with the security I did, and understand that "Unique" is the only way to be.
Alt. end2 The only reason why labels "Suck" is because someone, somewhere said they do. Labels are what you make them, and They can always be turned into a good thing.