I have had this conversation on the blog before, and undoubtedly this will not be the last time…
THE STORY
…Cruelty and general nastiness sadly is and has always been part of the human experience. I’m pretty sure that there is not one of us who hasn’t experienced it at some point in our lives. Recently it has become more prevalent, and as I’ve said previously, I honestly believe that is in large part due to the fact that since last year we (in the U.S.) have experienced a major cultural shift. And it hasn’t been a positive one.
There have always been cruel people in the world, but in the current climate in which we live those with a cruel (and in some cases blatantly evil) streak have been emboldened. They’ve feel as if they’ve been given free rein to unleash their vitriol on whomever they choose.
They see our “leaders”, and I use that term loosely, saying and doing things that not that long ago would have put them out of a job and placed them firmly into the role of social pariah. But now they are applauded for their ugly behavior. And if not applauded, the ugliness is at the very least tolerated or ignored. That, in my opinion, has begun to trickle down to the masses. People seem to now believe that it is their God-given right to say whatever the hell they want consequences be damned. Yeah, yeah…free speech, I’m a big fan and I get it. But what happened to common human decency?
I’m sorry (not really) if this offends you, but I do not believe that I, you, or anyone else has the “right” to just wantonly say whatever we please to make ourselves feel powerful at the cost of someone else’s feelings. Just because one has the “right” to say whatever they please does not mean that they should…particularly when their words are an unsolicited personal attack on another human being. That, quite simply, is never okay.
As I talked about back in September, sure, we can voice our opinions in generality. For example, if one does not care for say, wearing pajamas in public, it’s perfectly fine to say, “I am not a fan of people wearing pajamas in public. I think it looks utterly ridiculous.” However, it is not perfectly fine to approach an individual who is actually wearing pajamas in public and say, “I’m not trying to be mean or anything, but you look really bad. Did you even look in the mirror before leaving your house?” Prefacing the statement with words like “I’m not trying to be mean…” does not in any way make it any less offensive. If anything, it is proof that the speaker realizes that what they are about to say is exactly that…cruel and offensive.
An article that I read yesterday about a young mother who was body shamed in public by a complete stranger is what got me going on this topic again. My question is simply “why”? Why would a person feel the need to approach a complete stranger and berate them for something that is absolutely not their business? Why would a person even think that it is remotely acceptable to be blatantly cruel to someone who has done nothing to them; someone who didn’t even know they existed until they opened their negative nasty mouth? Just why?
I personally believe that especially in light of the current world in which we are temporarily forced to exist, it is imperative that we make a collective effort to treat our fellow humans if not with kindness, than at least courtesy.
I am not saying that we have to like everyone and everything that they do, say or wear. I am not saying that we have to agree with the decisions others make in regard to how to live their lives. I am saying that if we dislike something about an individual and it has absolutely no bearing on our own existence, then we simply need to keep our damn mouth shut. There is no need to cause unnecessary pain to another human being in a world that can already be difficult to navigate.
THE OUTFIT
The star of this show is beyond a doubt these delicious blush otk boots. I’m pretty sure that no matter what I pair them with, they will always be the standout piece. While the color makes them unique, it is still subtle enough that it can almost work as a neutral depending on what other pieces you are wearing.
I know this velvet kimono was on the blog just last week. But I love it, so it has been on repeat and will undoubtedly show up here again. The last time it was featured in a more casual look, but I thought it made the perfect layering piece over my gray floral boho dress for a more dressed up look.
THE TIP
Over the knee boots…don’t fear them. They work on just about everyone and can be super flattering as they lengthen the leg line. They look fabulous with jeans, dresses or skirts so they are actually super versatile. You can start safe with a pair in black, gray or brown or if you’re feeling more adventurous pick up a pair in an unexpected color like blush, navy blue or burgundy.
THE LINK UPS
Check out the weekly link ups I participate in for even more fashion and style ideas…
Dress: Similar; Boots: Charlotte Russe; Kimono: Forever 21
