You only live once. Sure, we know this. We’re not cats.

However, what started off as a simple concept has completely taken over social media.

The abbreviation of “You only life once” into “YOLO” originated in the Drake song “The Motto,” but it has since taken off as one of Twitter’s most popular hashtags—and for all the wrong reasons.

“YOLO” has become an excuse to do stupid things.

The concept of only living once has been around forever, but since Drake’s album came out a few months ago, it has gotten ridiculous.

After reviewing some of the “YOLO” hashtags on Twitter, I stand by my argument even more.

When I see “YOLO” in a tweet, I know instantly that something unintelligent and cocky is going to follow.

“Cops can’t stop 600 kids from having fun. #YOLO”

Oh, that’s smart. Have fun with that drinking ticket. I’m sure the cops will appreciate when you yell “YOLO!” into the Breathalyzer.

If it’s not unintelligent or arrogant, it’s just plain dumb.

“Peeing with the door open when people are home. #YOLO”

Seeing this makes me want to turn into a meme and say “Idiots, y u no use brains?!”

There’s nothing wrong with taking risks in life and trying new things. I’m totally for that.

But there’s a fine line between living your life to the fullest and making spur-of-the-moment, completely irrational decisions.

What if we were to turn the “YOLO” concept around and actually take it seriously?

How about this: “Decided to study abroad in Africa in the fall because I realized my life is too sheltered, and I want to be a more well-rounded person. #YOLO”

No way could I judge someone if they said that.

But if you’re telling me you’re getting high before class and “YOLO” is your excuse, I have no pity for you.

Actually, I do. Because if that’s your definition of “YOLO,” you might want to rethink your life priorities.

What does “YOLO” really mean? To me, “YOLO” means being able to look back on your life when you’re 90 and think, “Wow, I really did everything I possibly could with my life.”

I want to travel the world, be fluent in a language other than English, have a job I love, surround myself with people that matter and find a sport I’m actually good at (HA!).

I also want to do weird, quirky things, like have a teacup pig as a pet (but we won’t go there).

But “YOLO” isn’t about pigs.

“YOLO” isn’t about random stupid shenanigans you will regret in the morning.

“YOLO” is about opportunities that will make the most of your life.

“YOLO” is about taking risks, but making sure they’re worthwhile ones.

“YOLO” is doing everything you can to improve yourself as a person.

So next time you yell “YOLO!” before doing a keg stand, think of what it really means to only live once.

Like I said, we’re not cats. We don’t have nine lives. We have one and only one, so make the most of it.

Robyn Dexter can be reached at 581-2812 or [email protected].