What still exists? Immodesty.

Modesty is not a dress code, it is a virtue. I don’t know how or when that idea got thrown out the window, but it was once common knowledge. The root of modesty is concerned with our characters – it is part of who we are. The principle of modesty calls for much more commitment than just covering a certain amount of skin. My design in adding to the conversation about modesty is to clarify exactly what it includes, and how the real meaning of modesty drastically changes its importance in our lives. The ultimate goal for this declaration is to compel my audience to do something about this issue in their own lives. 

In order to change people’s actions, you have to change their perspective, which is another of my main purposes in writing about this topic. By redefining modesty in a way that they may not have considered before, I am answering the first question of writing, “what exists?” I am also implying that the need exists for me to clarify what modesty is because immodesty is still prevalent – in more ways than one – on our campus, even though we have all agreed to abide by certain “dress and grooming” standards. I hope to focus on this only as it is necessary to instigate a paradigm shift about modesty, using examples to illustrate the essence of modesty or immodesty. These examples will include not only the issue of immodesty in clothing, but also in actions, and in words. I am essentially calling for greater commitment to this principle, while also attempting to build upon the general understanding of it. To establish my credibility on this subject, I will include quotes and ideas from outside sources and materials to prove that my claim is worth listening to. Specifically, I will use scriptures, the words of modern-day prophets, official church material, the dictionary, the Catholic catechism, and personal examples, in order to accomplish this purpose.

With my claims about what is at the core of modesty, I am trying to open people’s minds to the idea that immodesty can be anything that is designed to draw attention to ourselves in any way. I am declaring that modesty is something we need to work on in some new ways, and giving my ideas on what we should do to improve the situation. This is answering the third question, “what should we do?” As I establish what I believe is the point of modesty, I am also intentionally sending out a strong admonition for people to do something about it. Unfortunately, what we wear will always give off an impression to those around us, and has the potential to say more about who we are than anything we could say ourselves. It may in fact reflect the degree of our conversion to others, and our commitment to following Christ. Yes, our clothing can say a lot about us, and it is my hope that I can help others understand just how real this connection is, and perhaps plan their wardrobe accordingly.