"I can just imagine you not getting your way having a fit. Whenever I imagine it, you always have a little crown on your head, but the crown is always a little crooked. In one hand you have a scepter, and in the other you have a guide on getting what you want." - A friend about me

Let me start off with a disclaimer: this article was not written to rant about how people aren't allowed to express their opinions.That isn't what this is about.

I have always believed everyone is entitled to think whatever they want about me based on the experiences I give them, but recently I have grown a bit frustrated with this "spoiled only child" label that I seem to have gained. People are less willing to get to know the real me because they see that I own materialistic items, and presume that all I am is a spoiled princess. Often, I am labeled shallow and unable to understand other's misfortunes because I was not in their position.

I was told to check my privilege, and that my spoiled upbringing has led me to be less empathetic towards others.

And to that, I say, "With all due respect, check your manners." Personally, the line of respect for one another was crossed when you tried to tell me who I was and what I felt. How can you question my feelings of "empathy" towards a topic or person when you've never even asked me. You made an assumption based on my lifestyle, and on the fact that I do enjoy materialistic items from time to time.

You mock or question my ability to care for others, but then turn around and start speaking of the things you would do if you had all the money in the world.

The reality of the situation from my perspective is that, because my lifestyle is not benefiting someone directly, it is an issue. But, when I am helping pay for food or spending my money on anyone but me, suddenly there is no problem.

Quite honestly, my issue doesn't fully lay with the jokes and judgments. Once people get to know me, their opinions tend to change, and I can accept the little jabs here and there. But please, think before you speak. It's not your place to figure out my life because the reality is you probably don't know the first thing about it. There are things to speak and joke about, and there are things that should sometimes stay to yourself.

I think rather than telling me to work on myself and change who I am, it's time you figure out your own priorities, especially considering you'll never find me stepping into your life making accusations or assumptions.