Times have certainly changed since we were middle school students. Thankfully, the dark, awkward days are over. Here's a glimpse of seven things that had different meanings when we were in middle school compared to middle school students today.

1. Cellular Device

Then: "The Brick," as we called it, because it would have been more reliable as a weapon of self-defense than sending and receiving text messages. You couldn't take pictures with it, but you could play Snake 2.

Now: iPhones for everyone—the world is at your fingertips.

2. Social Media

Then: Your AIM profile had a list of your best friends and a live update of your life.

Now:With a click of a button, your selfie is suddenly on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Tumblr.

3. Stalking Your Crush

Then: If you were daring enough, you would poke the person you were interested in on Facebook to get their attention.

Now: To the direct messages!

4. Outfit of the day

Then:Skinny jeans, five tank-tops layered on top of each other and a pair of Etnies.

Now:With clothing becoming scarce, there is a constant battle on what is appropriate and what is not.

5. Hairstyles

Then: Side bangs; the modern-day eye patch—when seeing out of one eye was all the rage.

Now: Thankfully, we left that in 2005.

6. Braces

Then:You and your friends were awkward and "brace-faced." Do they even make headgear anymore?

Now: Awkward is a thing of the past. Squad goals.

7. School Dances

Then: Dance segregation. The boys stood next to the window, and the girls stuck to the wall. There was no time to mingle, just time to be awkward.

Now: Let's try to leave room for the Holy Spirit.