"The Worm"

This meaning of this quote is evident in sports, too. Throughout sports history unique individuals have emerged into the spotlight. Some players never change their personalities, even after becoming multi-millionaire professional athletes. One example of a famous athlete staying true to himself is the story of Dennis Rodman. Growing up, Rodman (also known as "The Worm") had a rough childhood. After his father abandoned the family when Rodman was only three, Rodman became shy and lazy (Dennis Rodman Biography). After being kicked out of the house by his mother, he seemed like he would get his life back together. He went to Junior College and later was drafted by the Detroit Pistons. But, after the team disbanded, Rodman’s true personality was shown to the world. He became very frustrated with the way that the NBA handled its players, saying, “This business is rotten” (Dennis Rodman Bio). He began to take on the “bad boy” image that he is now notorious for, constantly dyeing his hair outrageous colors and covering his body with piercings and tattoos. He spoke out against the media, the NBA, and other players on various occasions. He instigated fights on the court and, on one occasion, was suspended by the league for head-butting a referee (Dennis Rodman Biography). Many people regarded him as one of the most bizarre athletes during the time, but Rodman enjoyed being himself. He once told reporters, “There's one thing everyone should understand: I like my character” (Dennis Rodman Quotes). Many people did not like Dennis Rodman because of his unusual on and off the court antics, but Rodman liked himself, and that was all that mattered to him.

Rodman may not have been accepted by the public, but his view on life is what Shakespeare’s quote is really about: As long as you like yourself and are true to yourself, then what others think about you does not matter. Shakespeare’s famous quote from Hamlet tells everyone to just be themselves, and these seven examples all show that. Following this quote will help you keep control of your own life, allowing you to live it exactly as you want. Acceptance is something that everyone wants from other people. But acceptance from others is not important; it is only important that we accept ourselves. Being yourself is difficult sometimes, especially when trying to fit in, but it is always better than pretending to be someone that you are not.