Reviewed by Leonard Smuts for Readers' Favorite

We live in a world that assigns labels to everything. This habit is the result of conditioning by our parents, teachers, and society. Siobhán Bridget Kennedy questions whether this serves us in Before the Labels. She reflects that we love to put others in boxes, and that once applied, the labels are hard to shake off. Societal norms abound, from office politics to the broader community or family issues. Those who do not conform can be marginalized or discriminated against. Children learn from their parents, which perpetuates patterns. Topics aired include how we think, facts versus opinions, using discernment, releasing old habits, listening to your intuition, opposites that define and sustain each other, as well as the cost of lies and deliberate omissions of fact that erode trust. The author questions the accuracy of our memories and perceptions. We become what we think. How we treat others is also highlighted, from kindness and politeness to suffering and divorce. It is important to remain authentic without hurting others while being supportive, finding quiet sanctuaries, and practicing forgiveness toward others and yourself. Intention is a factor, plus the need to have a curious mind, be a free thinker, and maintain an inner dialogue.

Siobhán Bridget Kennedy uses her everyday experiences and practical wisdom to ask what goes on in people’s minds, while exploring a fear-based society that focuses on the negative and assigns labels. In the face of lies, fake news, and AI-generated information, she questions whether we should believe what we are being told. Her thoughts on the use of AI, conspiracy theories, religion, science, meditation, prayer, fear of death, gratitude and generosity, and staying humble are particularly perceptive. Before the Labels encourages reflection. The author does not aim for perfection in her writing, but hopes that her work will spark a response. In this, she succeeds admirably. Her writing mirrors her independent thinking and aversion to authority, while embracing love, kindness, and compassion. She has found a formula for living that transcends religion and works for her. This book is deceptively powerful and deals with everyday issues in a practical way that is philosophical without becoming academic. It makes for inspirational and thought-provoking reading.