If proposed the question, “Do you love yourself?” what would you say?
One night while covering my shift at work, I took a break and had the opportunity to hear this song titled “i” for the first time. Partially unsure, I didn’t know if I’d just stumbled upon another timeless number like Pharrell’s “Happy” or an OK attempt to get the world singing in unison again from seasoned hip-hop phenom Kendrick Lamar. After about the third or fourth time, I thought to myself, Damn, this is good. People need to hear this! Initially expecting something similar to Lamar’s previous hits, such as “Swimming Pools” or even “Poetic Justice,” inspired by the ’90s film starring Janet Jackson and Tupac Shakur, I was in for quite a surprise. What changed? I began to listen! Between what sounded like a banjo playing in the beginning and Lamar’s unique vocals over the up-tempo, jubilant tune, it was the lyrics that captured my attention and lured me during the four-minute track (well, almost four minutes; it was only three minutes, 51 seconds, but that’s beside the point).
“I love myself” recites Kendrick as the hook rolls in following the first verse. Like in the video, by this time, it’d be only right to be up on your feet dancing away. In addition to advocating for self-love, Lama also notes in the song that “Everybody lacks confidence.” However, that should not be a deal breaker and to “Lift up your head and keep moving.”
Whether you’re at the awkward stage where obnoxious pimples the size of Mars are invading your face, or trips to the local drug store for “personals” have become more frequent, it can be somewhat challenging trying to figure out where to fit in. But that’s just it … you don’t have to!
For some, it may take time to come to the realization that it’s OK to stand out. Be yourself. And to be quite honest, the message is not anything new to older generations, but for those coming up, rest assured your very design of who you want to be will be appreciated 10 times more than a replica of the next woman/man.
With 2015 in full effect, what better way to start than with a refreshing attitude toward everything and everyone else — more importantly, one’s self. For many young adults, both straight and those who identify as LGBTQ, acceptance is something sought from peers, family and society in general; ironically, the only one missing at times is “I.” To be accepted, remember it starts from within first; once ingrained, then it’s only fair for those around to welcome you with open arms.
If proposed with the question, “Do you love yourself?” what would I say? Yes.
Lucky Fischer is a Philadelphia native and Temple University graduate, with a background in public relations.