What is dignity? Does one size fit all or should it mean different things for different people? What does it mean to different people. Many believe dignity is repressing their emotions. To some, dignity is having a successful job or financial security. To others, dignity is being married to an attractive spouse and having a lot of children. Others look further and believe success is gaining fame. Who gets to determine what is considered dignity? The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines dignity as “the quality or state of being worthy, honored, or esteemed.” This definition implies that dignity should be something dictated by an external source rather than the self. The latter is usually the least thought of when it comes to who determines dignity. From a young age, children are taught to abide. Not just by house rules or laws but by societal standards and edmands. They are told to “stay in line” or to “fit in”. Even the quote “When in Rome, act like Romans” reflects this. These expectations become even more harmful when it becomes a double-standard. When a man pushes himself in his education and career, he is called “ambitious” while a woman is called “crazy.” Westerners moving themselves to foreign countries are called “expats” regardless of credentials while colored professionals are still called an “immigrant.” These standards and expectations control every aspect of our lives. But what if we do not abide? Words like “avant-garde” or “unconvential” or “hippie” are casually thrown at us. For too long, dignity has only been determined by the people around us, the society we are part of, or even our own parents. But if this is not dignity, what should dignity be? All I believe is dignity should be past the surface. Therefore, obviously not physical demeanor. Salary? No, past that. Educational attainment? No, past that. Charisma? No, even deeper. Intelligence? Not even warmer. Shouldn’t we be judged for our kind thoughts, helpful actions, and sincere intentions rather than how “successful” we are? Hopefully there will be a day when people can be whomever they wish to and do whatever they please as long as it does not harm a single soul.