We live in a world where music speaks volumes. Phrases become lyrics that become mottos that may even become tattoos permanently inked onto someone's skin, just because the words have so much significance. Songs become mantras and artists become idols and trendsetters and inspirations. Inspiration. Music itself is so incredibly inspirational. Words combined with rhythm and passion are more powerful than meets the eye. No one truly understands the strength of a song until it just hits them.

All genres convey unique messages, unique sounds. And let me tell you from experience: THAT IS OKAY! You may adore country, but your best friend may be obsessed with rap. Those are just your passions. You just have differing tastes. Music is all about you and what makes you happy. In life, there are few things that are solely about you, but once you put on your earbuds and escape the world around you, it is all about you. Your music and your thoughts take over. No one in the world can tell you what music is good and what music is bad. They can speak for themselves, but no one can ever speak for you.

To me, that is what music about. As a nineteen-year-old with an omnipresent smile, a slightly high tone of voice and a consistently (or at least I try) positive attitude, people are shocked to learn of my love for rock, punk and metal music. People don't associate me with the stigma of heavier music. Often enough, people pair this music with rebels, maybe even "crazy" people, which is pathetic, if you ask me. The responses I often receive when admitting my music taste are usually along the lines of "Wow! I didn't see that coming!".

Here is an accurate example of my reaction to those responses.

Why? Because I didn't fit the stereotype that you had in your mind? I do not apologize for enjoying the music that I do. In fact, like the rest of the world, I think that my favorite songs are the best out there. And that is okay because my music is for me and it doesn't matter who likes it or doesn't.

How do I respond to those statements? I explain what I love about my music: the powerful messages, the poetic lyrics and the emphasis on the guitar and drums. People don't have to agree with me because as I said before, music is one of the few things in this world that I can say is solely about me. I don't shove it down the throats of my friends, as I am aware of the fact that they don't like the same songs that I do. I enjoy it privately, knowing that at least I am happy when I listen to it. I sing along without a care in the world because for once, I am thinking about me.

It is so difficult to find something that is just for you, nowadays. If you spoil yourself, you are seen as selfish. A day of relaxation at the spa? Of course, your friends want to join! If you don't let them, you are selfish. Wearing headphones or earbuds is a sign of separation from the world. People respect your decision to listen to music rather than socialize because now, that is a normalized form of distraction and relaxation. A chaotic bus ride suddenly becomes a personal concert once you put in your headphones. The crying baby that was giving you a migraine? Gone. The couple arguing over what to eat for dinner? Silenced. Music is your own personal escape. It is your personal space that no one can intrude.

The connection between music and self does not mean that the world of music is simply for self-enjoyment. If you do share a bond of music with friends, utilize that and enjoy it together! Music is all about freedom, expression, and pleasure. If you choose to use music as your personal getaway, then buy yourself a great pair of headphones and enjoy. If you want to enjoy music with those that you love, then get a group together, head to a concert and have the time of your life. Music is about YOU and what YOU want to do with it. So, enjoy it the way that you want to.