A straight edge is a lifestyle based on abstinence from alcohol and drugs. Many followers of the straight edge subculture choose to be vegetarian or vegan. Some combine this dietary choice with a lifetime commitment to abstinence from all harmful substances.
Aside from abstinence, a straight edge lifestyle also involves making healthy life choices. Typically, the most common ways to do this are to avoid smoking, alcohol, and caffeine. Others go the extra mile by avoiding marijuana and premarital sex. They may also choose to avoid meat products and wear clothing made from non-animal materials.
During the 1980s, the straight edge subculture gained popularity as a way for young people to take back control of their lives. The music and culture grew beyond the punk scene. As a result, straight edge adherents became more accepting.
Straight edge X is the most common symbol associated with the straight edge lifestyle. It is a symbol that can be found on a hand or on other body parts. In some cases, straight edge X can be used as a pin or incorporated into other clothing items.
Some straight edge devotees claim to draw Xs on their hands to indicate their dedication to a life free of mind-altering substances. Other people claim to be a straight edge but do not actually adhere to the lifestyle.
Aside from abstinence, the straight edge X is also the symbol of the movement. Those who follow the straight edge lifestyle usually wear a patch on their jacket or a large X on their back. The X can be traced to a band called Teen Idles. This band, along with Minor Threat, was one of the earliest to adopt the straight edge X as a symbol.
While most straight edge fans abstain from drugs and alcohol, some are not. Some members of X admit to drinking but remain sober. Nathan is one such person, as are Jeremy and Kornegay. There is also a new wave of straight edge fueled by violence. Fans of the genre have been known to raid and bomb stores and stores that sell animal products.
There are many reasons to become a straight edge. For many, it is a lifestyle that benefits their health and financial well-being. It’s also a time to learn what’s truly important in their lives. Often, young people who choose to be sober have family histories of addiction and have negative experiences with alcohol.
While a straight edge lifestyle is not for everyone, it is a choice worth considering. It may be the only option for you. However, if it isn’t, you’ll be missing out on all the other advantages. So if you’re thinking about giving it a try, be prepared to make a commitment to yourself. You may just be surprised at the benefits of living a substance-free lifestyle.
If you want to find out more about the straight edge lifestyle, check out websites dedicated to this subject. Also, you may enjoy reading magazines about it.
