We live in a world of social media, dating apps, online profiles

We live in a world of social media, dating apps, online profiles where everyone is portraying themselves in 2D, trying to look cool. Portray yourself in three dimensions. This powerful reflection by Matthew Hussey beckons us to look deeper than the flat images we present to the world, urging us to live beyond the confines of mere appearances. In this age of digital interaction, it is all too easy to fall into the trap of presenting a carefully curated image of ourselves, a mere 2D projection of the person we wish others to see. We shape our profiles to reflect only the aspects that fit a specific narrative, disregarding the complexities, nuances, and imperfections that make us whole. Yet, in doing so, we deny ourselves the richness that comes with embracing our three-dimensional selves—the full spectrum of our personality, struggles, strengths, and vulnerabilities.

Long ago, in the courts of emperors and kings, a nobleman was expected to present a polished, flawless image to the world—his face was his honor, and he shaped his words to reflect this. Yet those who lived long enough to be revered were those who were not afraid to let their flaws show, for it was in the unveiling of vulnerability that true wisdom and connection were born. A life lived in 2D, devoid of authentic experience, may impress in the moment but lacks the depth to inspire true loyalty and respect. The great leaders, warriors, and thinkers of old understood that wisdom did not come from perfection, but from the scars earned in battle, the wounds of the heart that reveal a person’s humanity.

Matthew Hussey’s quote speaks to the illusion that we have come to worship in our modern world—the illusion of perfection. Through the lenses of our smartphones, we create worlds that seem idyllic, yet they often conceal the rich tapestry of emotions, struggles, and triumphs that make us who we are. It is this veneer of perfection that has led many into despair, trying to measure themselves against an ideal that is not only unattainable but untrue. This is evident in the rise of mental health issues, where the pressure to meet an external standard of beauty, success, or happiness leads to a disconnection from one’s true self.

Consider the great artist, Michelangelo, whose works transcend time not because they were flawless but because they captured the full complexity of the human experience. His sculptures, like the David, are not merely representations of strength but of struggle and triumph. Every crack, every imperfect angle, every flaw serves to remind us that beauty lies in the struggle. To see oneself in three dimensions is to acknowledge both the strengths and weaknesses, the victories and the defeats. It is this acceptance of imperfection that makes us whole, that allows us to connect with others on a deeper level.

In a world that constantly demands more—more beauty, more success, more perfection—it is easy to forget that it is in the unpolished moments, in the quiet, unassuming acts of kindness, and in the raw authenticity of who we truly are that we find true connection. The great philosopher Socrates once said, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” To live in three dimensions is to examine one’s life honestly, to embrace both the light and the shadows within. It is a call to reject the facades and live in the fullness of one’s being, to show the world who you truly are, not who you think they want you to be.

The lesson, therefore, is not just about authenticity, but about courage. Courage to face the world not as an image, but as a living, breathing human being with all the complexities that come with being alive. We must strive to live fully, to seek connections based on who we truly are, and not the projected versions of ourselves we present on screens. When we begin to portray ourselves in three dimensions, we open the doors to deeper, more meaningful relationships. We inspire others to do the same, and in doing so, we create a world where authenticity is valued more than the illusion of perfection.

Let this be a reminder to us all: **the world needs you—**not your profile picture, but the real you. The world needs your struggles, your triumphs, your flaws, and your strengths. Step out from behind the veil of perfection and live in three dimensions. By doing so, you will find true freedom, connection, and happiness. It is in the fullness of our humanity that we find the courage to live fully, authentically, and with profound impact.