How hip is it to be square?

Well, I think that depends on what this phrase really means.

To be hip is an easy one: it’s a kind of cheesy way to say cool.

To be square… now that offers a challenge.

I’m pretty sure that it doesn’t imply to have a square head, arms, legs, and only own square-shaped articles like in Minecraft. But I hear Minecraft is pretty “hip” right now, although I’ve never played it.

I think to be square must be defined; it means that there are definite values around it, four corners, if you will. There is balance and understanding of oneself. It’s a self-mastery of sorts.

I like to believe that I know myself. I know that I love music, that I enjoy animals, that I’m hard-working, and that I love being a part of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

I’m pretty well defined, and when a stressful moment comes around, I’m not afraid to be myself because I know myself.

Most importantly, I think no one should feel inclined to do something that they would not choose on their own terms. I’m referring to peer pressure and how easily so many of us succumb to what our friends want us to be. We shouldn’t live up to labels that others have given us.

I know what it feels like to want to be silly and abnormal only because somebody told me that I was obnoxious. I know what it feels like to want to be an ace because somebody told me I was smart. It’s easy to listen to those voices and make them who I am.

It’s hard, but it is so much more rewarding to be the person you want to be. Define yourself, don’t let others define you. Don’t let the world tell you that you have to do drugs or dress a certain way or be the star in a musical or build skyscrapers.

Choose your own way; be what you want to be; live your own life. Above all else, remember this: It’s hip to be square.