Modesty.

So today I have been put (somewhat) over the edge. Let me start by saying that the world becomes better as we each choose to love others and not condemn them. With that said, it is important that you know that this post is out of love, not rage or judgment.

Modesty.

There are so many definitions, so let's take this one to the Oxford Dictionary.

1. The quality or state of being unassuming or moderate in the estimation of one's abilities.

2. The quality of being relatively moderate, limited, or in small amount, rate, or level.

3. Behavior, manner, or appearance intended to avoid impropriety or indecency.

Now that we've got that all straightened out, let's look at the third definition.

What exactly is "impropriety"? It means "A failure to observe standards or show due honesty or modesty; improper language, behavior, or character."

So "modesty," according to the third definition, is any behavior, manner, or appearance that does not fail to observe standards. In simple terms, modesty means to act and appear appropriate.

Stay with me, here.

Why, then, is our culture so ready to say how sexist and ridiculous modesty is? I think the answer is simple. We have redefined (in our own minds and cultures) what it means to be modest.

I have seen countless articles mocking and condemning modesty; saying that the entire idea of modesty is sexist and needs to disappear. Well, I disagree. Modesty needs to be understood, not banned.

Modesty is not only about the clothes you wear. It is your intentions, your actions, and your mind too.

We live in a world where ideas are misconstrued and blown way out of proportion. I'll be the first to admit that I used to associate the word "modesty" with "old lady" or "weirdo". And that logic is just not true. Principles of modesty do not mean that you have to look frumpy or like you were born in the 1800s. Being modest means exactly what the definition says; it means that you act and appear appropriate.

Now this is where we hit a fork in the road. Some of you will say, "But what does 'appropriate' mean? How can we define what is appropriate and what is not?" And my answer is simple. We can't.

Wait, what?

That's right, we can't. I cannot set one standard and tell the world to obey it simply because I have defined my own image of modesty. It is up to each individual to (honestly) assess his or her own surroundings, beliefs, ideals, etc. and determine what modesty means.

In the end, modesty is important. And it applies to everyone. So rather than jump on the "Modesty is Sexist" bandwagon, we should all understand that to be modest is to be appropriate and leave it at that.

Girls, you have the power to choose how you dress and act. You have the power to influence the minds around you (yes, this is actually true). You have the power to choose to be pure in heart and mind. You have the power to re-create the definition of modesty in your own mind and to choose to be appropriate.

Boys, you also have the power to choose how you dress and act. You also have the power to influence the minds around you. You have the power to choose to be pure in heart and mind. You have the power to re-create the definition of modesty in your mind and to choose to be appropriate.

Modesty is beautiful. It means so much more than your hemlines. It involves your intentions, your actions, your mind, and your clothes. So choose wisely how you want to be perceived.