Dont Be So Quick To Judge

Hey Lemon8 fam! Let's dive deep into a topic that’s been really close to my heart lately: judgment. You know, that quick assessment we often make about someone or something without really knowing the full story. It’s something I think about a lot, especially when I'm creating music or putting together an outfit that feels truly 'me'. Recently, I’ve been reflecting on the timeless wisdom found in Matthew 7:1-3 from the Bible. For those unfamiliar, it’s often summarized as, "Do not judge, or you too will be judged." It goes on to talk about seeing the speck in someone else's eye while ignoring the plank in your own. For me, this isn’t just a religious verse; it’s a profound life philosophy that resonates deeply with my journey as an artist and an individual. When I started working on my upcoming EP, this concept became a guiding light. In the creative world, and especially in fashion, you're constantly putting yourself out there, inviting opinions, and yes, judgment. People might see a "pink sheer shirt" or a "cow-print fuzzy bucket hat" and immediately form an opinion. Or they might hear a snippet of a song and decide it's not for them. And that's okay, to an extent. But what Matthew 7:1-3 reminds me is to question the source of that judgment, both from others and, more importantly, from within myself. How often do we judge someone's style—maybe that bold "red sheer shirt" or an unconventional hairstyle like a "light eyebrow" with a "beard"—without understanding the confidence, creativity, or even vulnerability it represents? My music and my visual presentation, like the "vibrant patterns" and "graphic overlays" in my EP photos, are extensions of my authentic self. They're meant to express, provoke thought, and connect, not to conform to a narrow set of expectations. This verse challenges me to look inward first. Before I criticize someone else's choices, whether it's their fashion sense or their artistic direction, I ask myself: What are my own biases? What are the 'planks' in my own perspective that might be clouding my view? This practice fosters a space for greater empathy and understanding, not just for others, but for myself too. It helps me to be less critical of my own creative process and more accepting of my unique voice. Living by the "don't judge" mantra has been incredibly liberating. It pushes me to be bolder in my fashion choices, like experimenting with "sheer shirts" or contrasting elements, because I'm focusing on my own expression rather than anticipating what others might think. It also allows me to explore diverse musical themes in my "upcoming EP" without fear. This isn't about being immune to feedback, but about being grounded in a self-acceptance that isn't easily swayed by superficial critiques. For anyone out there feeling the weight of judgment, or perhaps struggling with being judgmental towards others, I encourage you to reflect on Matthew 7:1-3. It's a powerful reminder to approach people, art, and life with an open mind and a kind heart. Let's celebrate the diversity of expression around us and create a more accepting community, both online and offline. What does "don't judge" mean to you? Share your thoughts below!