PC

Sean John Combs was his given name, but when releasing his first rap album, Sean christened himself Puff Daddy. He became famous, and with his upcoming albums, his music wasn’t the only thing that transformed--His stage names did as well.

He went from Puff Daddy to P Diddy to just Diddy over the span of one decade.

Although I may have rolled my eyes at his "inconsistencies," it wasn't that big of a deal. I thought it was even kind of cool that he could wield such power, because, not that long ago, people of his race didn't have that ability. Once upon a time, people of color were called negros--or even worse--the other n-word. And before that, they were merely nameless slaves.

Times change. What was once accepted, is now appalling. Society is evolving, and with that, our vocabulary.

But sometimes it’s exhausting being PC. It’s not uncommon to hear something like, “People are overly sensitive these days; I can’t say a damn thing without someone getting offended!” And that’s fair. Everyone should be able to state his or her opinions. Keyword: everyone.

But some claim that they “Can’t keep up with it all. It’s impossible to be politically correct because people keep changing their minds!” Also noted. Just look at the ever-expanding LGBTQ+ abbreviation. Every time I check, there’s another letter added. But also, is this really a problem? My sexuality may be represented with that first L, but that doesn't mean I refuse to call anyone by a new name added to the abbreviation. I should welcome change even if it doesn't concern my needs.

Being PC is not ridiculous. Being PC is not a chore. Being PC is the least you can do to listen and acknowledge those who once didn’t have a voice. If you can change for Diddy, I’m confident you can be PC for those Humans with whom you don’t identify. Please don't let privilege get in the way of empathy.

Although today may not be “the good old days,” today is a better day. Let's be grateful for that.