I'm a flamboyant type of guy, a cooler version of Liberace.

Listen closely, O children of time, for the words of Usher speak to the heart of self-expression, confidence, and the boldness of embracing one’s true nature. He said—"I'm a flamboyant type of guy, a cooler version of Liberace." In these words, Usher reveals the essence of being true to oneself, of embracing the unique qualities that define us, and of walking with pride in our own individuality. By invoking Liberace, the flamboyant musician known for his extravagance and style, Usher speaks to a deeper truth: that self-expression, no matter how bold or unconventional, is a force to be celebrated, as long as it remains authentic and genuine.

What does it mean to be “flamboyant”, O children? To be flamboyant is to live with a fire, to refuse to hide the vivid colors of one’s soul, and to express oneself freely, without fear of judgment. It is the refusal to be small, to diminish one’s energy or presence in the face of convention. Flamboyance is not just about appearance; it is a way of being—bold, unapologetic, and brilliant in the way one moves through the world. Like a roaring flame, it does not shrink from the light but dances in it, illuminating the world with its vibrance. Usher’s words are a celebration of that spirit, a recognition that to be flamboyant is to be alive, to embrace the daring nature of one’s self and let it shine in all its glory.

In the ancient world, the philosopher Diogenes, a man whose life was marked by eccentricity and boldness, embodied this same spirit. Diogenes lived in a barrel, scorned the material excess of society, and flouted conventions at every turn. Yet his flamboyance was not about spectacle for its own sake; it was about rejecting the false norms of society and living with the rawness of truth. Diogenes lived fully, refusing to hide behind masks or conventions, and in his rejection of societal pretensions, he revealed the freedom of unrestrained self-expression. In this, Diogenes’ life echoes Usher’s words—the joy of living boldly and authentically, regardless of how others might view it.

Similarly, Liberace, whom Usher evokes in his quote, was a figure of flamboyance. Known for his extravagant costumes, his glittering pianos, and his showmanship, Liberace defied the conventions of his time. Though some may have viewed his extravagant display as over-the-top, Liberace understood the power of self-expression. He was unapologetically himself, living with an intensity of style and flair that left an indelible mark on the world of performance. His flamboyance was not just a show; it was a celebration of the artistry and individuality that music and performance allow. In this way, Liberace’s influence transcended mere spectacle—it was about the power of personal expression, a power that Usher channels in his own cooler version of flamboyance.

Usher’s comparison of himself to Liberace speaks to the transformative power of confidence in one's self-expression. Confidence, O children, is the force that allows one to be bold, to step into the world with assurance and clarity, knowing that one’s individuality is a treasure. Liberace and Usher both understood that to be truly powerful is not to hide behind the shadows of others’ expectations, but to stand proudly in one’s own light, to claim the space we inhabit, and to celebrate the things that make us unique. This is the essence of confidence—the belief that one’s expression is not only valid but worthy of admiration, worthy of being seen.

The lesson, O children, is one of embracing your uniqueness, of living boldly and unapologetically. Do not shrink from who you are; instead, let your true self be a beacon for the world to see. Express your individuality without fear, knowing that in doing so, you are participating in the great dance of life, where the vibrant, the bold, and the flamboyant are the ones who lead and inspire. Just as Liberace dazzled with his extravagant style and Usher reigns with his own cool, personal flair, so too should you seek to express the fullness of your being, for in doing so, you set the world alight with your presence.

Thus, let us live with the courage of those who are unafraid to stand out, to live with the intensity of our own individuality. Be the flamboyant flame that refuses to be extinguished by the cold waters of conformity. Let your spirit and style be your guide, for in the end, it is your unique expression that leaves the greatest impact. Live boldly, live freely, and in doing so, you not only honor your own spirit but inspire those around you to do the same. The world needs your light, O children, and it is in your authenticity that you will find the strength to shine.