We have all heard the phrase 'YOLO.' You have probably heard it a few too many times to count and most probably used it in many situations. But have you ever stopped and truly thought about that phrase; YOLO. You only live once.
The phrase is used almost too frequently by millennials to describe anything from going skydiving to ordering an extra taco from Taco Bell, or applying for a job you never thought you would get, or adding it as a hashtag on Instagram or Twitter.
It came to life seemingly overnight, when Drake's song "Motto" became overplayed on the radio, stating with (and I quote)
”Now she want a photo
You already know though
You only live once, that's the motto n**** YOLO
We 'bout it every day, every day, every day”
Drake really hit the metaphorical nail on the head with that one.
When you think about it, though, YOLO is inherently true. You do only live one time, you are given one life, one chance on this earth and it is completely up to you to do what you want with it. Regardless of what your religious beliefs may or may not be, YOLO is a life changing experience when you actually think deeper behind the colloquialism.
It occurred to me one evening as I was sitting and watching the sunset sink behind the rolling hills of Eastern Washington: this, right here right now, is your life. There will never be another moment like the one that you are experiencing right now.
It's difficult to take a step back from the everyday view of taking things and events simply as they appear to be and seeing yourself from a different perspective. It's almost viewing yourself from an out of body standpoint.
Luckily, the phrase died out soon after it made its iconic appearance, being used on occasion today by inebriated teenagers and twenty somethings in ironic matters, such as “should I eat that last piece of cake? YOLO.” and other such difficult decisions.
Even though the phrase took root in a humorous ground, there is something slightly philosophical to be said about the phrase YOLO. The feeling and understanding is tough to put in to words, but I challenge you; next time you experience something breathtaking or stunning or that puts you at a loss for words, just stop. Stop, take a second, and truly see whatever it is that makes you feel alive and think about this being your life. Yours. Nobody else's. YOURS.
That being said, it’s time we all embrace YOLO a little bit. I’m not saying bring that phrase back (I think we all got annoyed with it, to be quite honest) but make a few daring decisions; you only live once, after all.
