Posts by Lawrence Bailey77

It bothers me when someone’s speech becomes such a distraction that it actually pulls focus away from nonverbal communication... which, if I'm being honest, I tend to favor much more than mere words 🍿

Ronald Jones said:I have a question regarding the topic in the title.

To illustrate my point, let me offer a few examples.

a) Suppose we attend a social gathering where, naturally, one is expected to drink something. What is the purpose of this, truly, if I am already aware that I don't enjoy it? In fact, I find the very notion of being obligated quite distasteful. Why is it that people succumb to this pressure, have a few drinks, and then subsequently expect that individual to actually get intoxicated? 😳 🙄 It is quite the same situation with cigarettes. 😳 😳

b) Furthermore, why is there such an obligation to be in a relationship right now? Is there something inherently wrong with me if I am single? Am I supposed to simply abandon all my standards and settle for the very first person who happens to be somewhat attractive? 😳 🍿 Yet, I observe that a vast number of people simply give in to these societal expectations. ☕ ☕

you don't have to

b) Furthermore, why must I be in a relationship right now? Is there something inherently wrong with me if I am single? Am I supposed to simply abandon all my standards and jump at the first person who shows a modicum of attraction? 😳 🍿 Yet, I observe that a vast majority of people simply give in to these societal pressures. ☕ ☕

you don't have to

Does that make you feel any better? 😁

Hold onto your standards... you maintain them for your own sake, not for anyone else... much like your character. And clearly, since you are observant of those around you, you are also observant of yourself... unfortunately, that is the price of awareness. You might as well just live life as it is. In my experience, having both awareness and intelligence is one of the few genuine advantages in this life.🙂

Mark Wright79 said:Someone with severe disabilities who can't even communicate needs care, and honestly, you'd never dream of mocking them.

Yeah, people with intellectual disabilities might struggle to learn, but at least they're out there living their lives.

You can't even call folks in that category "stupid"—that's a medical condition.

As for everyone else, "stupidity" isn't actually a thing. Real stupidity is just acting dumb. Even the smartest person in the room is gonna mess up sometimes, but that doesn't make them stupid! We all say something silly once in a while, usually because we didn't have the full story or just had a momentary lapse. Human error is endless, and sometimes we trip up without meaning to, but nobody knows everything... People who are healthy and thriving are out there learning and working hard. I think smart people really fall into two groups: 1.) the ones who stay stuck in their ways and stop wanting to learn anything new, and 2.) the lifelong learners who are always leveling up their skills and knowledge.

And I'm totally with Zoe on this one, she nailed how a smart person should carry themselves. Also, calling someone a "nerd" is such an insult... huge props to anyone who wants to go above and beyond, whether it's for school, work, or whatever!

Given that perspective, I have been pondering a question for quite some time regarding my dear 😁

who is truly the pathetic one... the wretch, or the one who mocks the wretch?

I mean, I wonder how much misery one must harbor within themselves to find any satisfaction in someone else's misfortune.

🙄Well, I guess I just ended up biting my own tongue there... Ouroboros, yay.

🙄 .. perhaps a bit too much paranoia for my personal taste, though I suppose it’s a logical defense mechanism .. the trouble is, most people start swinging wildly at shadows before they even know if there's a target, and by the time reality catches up, the damage is usually done .. I wouldn't suggest being stingy when it comes to being a decent human being, though. I know folks who aren't paranoid in the slightest; they just stand tall in their kindness without feeling the need to blast it from the rooftops

Ethan Cruz4 said:Does "being a good person" actually just mean being naive and a pushover for everyone? Reading through the responses here, it seems like most people view them as one and the same.

quite the opposite .. true naivety prevents someone from being a truly good person .. regardless of how innocent or well-intentioned they might be, a person like that is far too susceptible to influence, and their "goodness" becomes entirely dependent on their surroundings and circumstances .. which means they aren't really acting of their own volition .. they are perhaps only "good" because they lack the capacity to be cruel .. I spent a large portion of my life that way, I suppose .. thinking that goodness was an absolute, self-contained thing .. and in a vacuum, maybe it is, but .. well, you know how these stories go ☕

I've stopped obsessing over the binary of good versus evil .. I've simplified my own values, and honestly, just being a "regular" human being is enough for me 😉

Kevin Nguyen3, did you really just deconstruct both him and his buddy in a few short sentences? It’s almost like you were playing The Mentalist on fast-forward here.

It isn't that I don't trust your judgment, per se, but if you'll permit me to be blunt... it all feels a bit... strained, I suppose. Maybe I'm overthinking it, but could you perhaps elaborate? I wonder if we're truly being as "thorough" as we think we are, or if we might be missing the finer points.😉

And listen, nobody really knows...

.... To me, it sounds perfectly fine that the doctor thinks he’s capable of pulling himself together on his own. In fact, I suppose it’s the only way. No hospital in the States is going to truly fix you. It might be better to just ensure things don't spiral further, though I guess that depends entirely on the circumstances.

.. If I were to offer any advice, I'd say just stay close by, ready for when he actually needs you.

Let me tell you my own experience. I have plenty of friends, but you know how it goes. Much like yourself, man, you can't make heads or tails of a friend when they're spiraling; nothing they say sounds rational. I spent a long time in that exact same headspace. Not just every now and then, but constantly. Full-time. 😁 I didn't seek out much company from "normal" people back then because I was acutely aware of my condition. There isn't much help to be found from the outside when the issue is internal. Eventually, I ended up in a facility myself. Not directly, perhaps, but if you understand what I mean, no one was really holding my hand through it. I left quickly because I had too many work obligations and responsibilities, and I realized I could probably do more for myself than they could do for me anyway, and

well, that's how it went after I caught up with some old friends and we talked for a bit;

They started lecturing me, telling me I should see doctors or whatever nonsense, suggesting I reach out to them... essentially implying "you shouldn't talk about these things publicly." I told them, "Look, I appreciate the sentiment, friends, but please don't get inside my head too much." I didn't want to have to bother you all, frankly.

So, as usual, I just endured the daily grind. But when the burnout hits and everything starts snapping under the pressure, I call my friends—hundreds of calls over time—and there is just no answer. Silence. Total emptiness. And honestly, it's a mess. You're told everything you do is wrong, or you screw up and everyone blames you. (I won't even mention that I called the national crisis hotline for months and never once did anyone pick up! I even called that number in front of other people on speakerphone just to prove it, because in those states, people tend to assume you're lying.) For someone who isn't stable—someone who is barely standing because the ground beneath them is slippery and full of holes—having your support system vanish exactly when you need it is a fatal reality. Because while you're fighting, you're constantly guessing and waiting to see if that support will hold, knowing it rarely does. You see it in their eyes; you see exactly what you've become. You notice how when you start talking, their heads droop and their souls seem to flee from you. You shouldn't, and you simply cannot, drag others into those depths. If you pull someone else down with you, you've both failed. It is better to wait, as I suggested elsewhere, and take it one small step at a time. Wait for moments of clarity and try to navigate through them slowly.

If you have the will, the time, and—more importantly—the nerves, then help him. And listen to him closely. Even if he's talking nonsense, try to sift through the fog to figure out the best thing you can do, or perhaps, sometimes, the best thing is to do nothing at all... just listen. In my experience, being ignored or having someone say "go find someone else to deal with this" is worse than a bullet to the head. 😁

It will take a toll on you too, but you'll be helping him immensely. It is far easier to destroy a person than it is to help them. Oh, certainly.

Good luck. 👍

lonetiger98 said:Did your psychiatrist not lay out exactly what she expects from you?🤷
I find it hard to believe she’d actually want you bad-mouthing him right to his face.

Honestly, I think you should just give his parents a heads-up—what they decide to do with that info is on them. You can't carry the weight of his choices on your shoulders.

.. but why on earth wouldn't someone be held responsible? ☕

Don't mess with him... You are essentially his only—and arguably most vital—link to a "reality" that, if you ask me, is built on a foundation of nonsense. From his perspective, if he were to trust you, it could be devastating if you were to
stab him in the back. Therefore, maintaining communication with him, regardless of how taxing it might be, is absolutely necessary just to gauge his mental state. Perhaps there is a need, even if only momentarily, to set aside one's own interests and focus entirely on aiding a man who has clearly lost, or is rapidly losing, his grip on himself.
😉It's a massive responsibility... In my estimation, this isn't merely some "litmus test" for him. 😁As for what you're saying regarding the field of psychiatry... well, it isn't quite that straightforward. Regardless of the protocols they have in place or how much documentation dictates their procedures, these assessments remain deeply personal and... uh... I am glad I haven't made their jobs too difficult.

Hang in there. Sometimes you just have to make sacrifices in life; if you let yourself completely break, I’m not sure anyone will be able to put you back together..

My own parents, despite being incredibly loving people, actually managed to crush me after a major tragedy simply because they were being foolish. I’m not trying to be defensive here, and personally, I feel for you—it’s a shame you allowed yourself to reach a breaking point—but one really must respect the limits of physical and neurological endurance..

It feels quite pathetic when people start listing all the "silver linings" and positive things to me while I'm in the middle of a crisis. However, I have to tell you that recognizing and being fully aware of the problem is the absolute foundation for any kind of solution. I only want you to remember not to lose yourself in the process and to take care of yourself.. and please, whatever the cost, hold onto your sanity! Once that's gone.. there isn't much help left.. most people don't even realize it.. It will take generations of professors changing their entire approach before they even learn how to ask the right questions, let alone provide answers..

Nature has favored the individual up until now, so I don't see why individualism wouldn't continue to be a better path than this mass schizophrenia we see today.. though, that is merely my opinion. ☕

I believe there is an American idiom for this:

"It is more important to be kind than to be right" 🙂

As painful as that might sound, and perhaps even if it required a significant premium to maintain, I find the sentiment quite beautiful. It serves as a necessary buffer, separating me from the sheer primitivism and the general chaos that makes life so exhausting🙄

When does the statute of limitations on collections actually kick in, and does the timeframe change based on how much is owed?

To be specific, I’m waiting on a second collection notice regarding a fine my stepson incurred—it's roughly $75 or so. Since I don't have a steady income right now and don't even maintain a bank account, I'm wondering if this will eventually just expire via the statute of limitations. And, given everything I've been through in this country... is it actually possible for an amount that small to go after my assets? The only thing I truly own is some farmland.

I appreciate any insight you can offer. No matter how ridiculous the amount might seem to some of you, for me, it represents more than a month's worth of income. Thanks for understanding.

It isn't just that you seem more mature; you also appear to be significantly healthier, or perhaps just more active than most people I encounter
.
I suppose I should ask whether you actually experience fatigue—for instance, when you find yourself awake at 3:00 AM, do you feel truly rested and well-slept?

... Personally, I have never found it useful to compare myself to others to determine if I am "normal" 😉, nor would I ever dream of judging anyone else 😍

Long live awareness! 😉

Nicholas Gonzalez said:Self-help

So, self-help—it’s a term that has been having quite the moment lately. You hear it everywhere: Louise Hay, José Silva, Autogenic training, NLP, self-hypnosis, creative visualization... Is it all just pseudoscience, or is it a legitimate branch of psychology? Here is my humble take on the matter, kept brief.

It all kicks off the very second an individual realizes they aren't actually who they want to be. It’s a bit like an identity crisis or a midlife crisis, though I don't personally suffer from those because I've been battling that exact same feeling since I was fifteen. Of course, back then, I viewed my problems through a much different lens—one filtered by mysticism and the occult. I saw myself as a wizard, initiated into great secrets, three times greater than anyone else, blah blah blah... Fast forward ten years, and I view all of that from a much more mature perspective. Even back then, however, I knew what my core issue was. My character—the underlying programming that runs my being—was driving me in a direction I didn't want to go. I realized and accepted that fact early on: I am UNREFINED. Since that realization, "re-refining" myself has become my primary obsession.

Everything comes down to control. We are all governed by various subconscious algorithms, programs, sub-programs, patterns, and habits; these are the psychological elements that steer our lives. And honestly? We aren't the ones truly making the decisions. We are all slaves to these forces; that is the profound truth that leads to true freedom. However, even this grand truth is merely an idea that can remain false until an individual begins to believe in it. For an idea to manifest its miraculous power, it must be embraced; one must have faith in it. Ultimately, we become what we believe ourselves to be. Transforming one's character is a monumental task, but in a world where people are nowhere near aware of how fundamentally important self-refinement is, this might be the only path to freedom.

Everything starts at that specific point where a person finally recognizes they are a SLAVE.
Realizing this requires getting to know oneself deeply, which demands a high degree of objectivity and critical thinking. This necessary contemplation—this deep dive—is a process that forces an individual to face some very uncomfortable truths. That is precisely why one must remain objective. You need a period of introspection to observe your thoughts, emotions, reactions, and general psychological procedures. Know yourself, and you will know the world. Some people do this alone, while others seek help from a therapist; it doesn't really matter. What matters is how thoroughly you examine the material.

Developing discipline is the logical next step. Therefore, an individual should draft something akin to an action plan. This plan should work over time to instill new habits, new patterns, new algorithms, and a new program within the person. We encounter plans in our daily lives all the time; however, this particular plan should be written down on paper.

To start, let's write down three big questions: Where am I now? Where do I want to be? How will I get there?

Question 1
What am I good at, and where do I fall short? What are my talents and my flaws? What can help me achieve my goal, and what might block my way? What knowledge, skills, and qualifications do I already possess? What am I standing on?

Question 2
What do I love doing? What brings me joy and inspires me? What fulfills me? What can I gain, and what might I lose? What is my ultimate goal?

Question 3
How will I make it happen? Which methods or techniques will assist me? How can I stay motivated? How much am I willing to give? How much, and what, am I prepared to sacrifice? How will I measure my progress?

The best way to organize this entire project is to set short-term, medium-term, and long-term goals. Doing this makes it much easier to track progress, and those small victories along the way will provide the motivation needed to keep pushing forward.
Establishing various daily, weekly, monthly, and annual routines and rituals is also essential, as this is how we build new habits and patterns. Furthermore, these routines serve as reminders to help us stay focused. For similar reasons, another vital element emerges: keeping a journal.

It would be incredibly beneficial to construct an "Avatar"—a fully realized persona that serves as a blueprint for your potential future self. Think of this Avatar as everything you aren't right now; it represents everything you aspire to become and, ultimately, the person you are destined to be.
Achieving this requires immense patience. You’ll need deep commitment, courage, unwavering faith, and a willingness to make significant sacrifices if you truly want to conquer your own limitations.
That's essentially my take on it.

Now, I’m eager to hear about your own experiences with this concept. I am interested in your theories, of course, but more than anything, I want to hear about your practical, real-world applications—if you have them.

Ah, yes... freedom. It isn't surprising, I suppose, that places like Charleston possess such a distinct character—from the very texture of the cobblestone streets to the specific mindset of the people you encounter tucked away in those historic corners. To my way of thinking, there is a certain living art to freedom found there. If you were to ask me, I’d say it is truly priceless; it is the very essence of what it means to be alive. In fact, one might argue that freedom is life itself, if you catch my drift.

Everything, I suppose, begins at that exact moment when an individual finally realizes they are nothing more than a slave.
True insight requires a deep, unflinching dive into one's own psyche, which I suppose demands a rather high degree of objectivity and critical scrutiny. This necessary period of contemplation—this deep immersion, if you will—is a process that inevitably forces an individual to confront some very uncomfortable truths. That is precisely why maintaining objectivity is so vital. One must allow for a certain duration of internal exploration to observe one's thoughts, emotions, reactions, and general psychological patterns. It is a heavy undertaking. I suspect that if you truly come to know yourself, you will eventually understand the world at large. Some people choose to navigate this journey alone, while others seek the guidance of a psychotherapist; frankly, it matters little. The only thing that truly matters is how thoroughly one can master the material of their own being.

I suppose most people in the surrounding area would agree, and even the experts tend to use that term—they’d likely label such individuals as being clinically depressed. 😁 It seems everyone loves to complain about how difficult life is and how unfair the world can be—all that endless whining, really. Yet, they act completely bewildered when an individual actually reacts negatively to a toxic environment. If you ask me, it’s more than just childish; it's a fundamental reaction to reality. It is an objective truth that even those surrounding us—who are, quite frankly, rather immature and poorly raised—must eventually acknowledge. 😍

Developing true discipline is really just the next logical step in the process. I suppose one ought to draft something akin to an action plan. Ideally, this plan would function over a set period to instill new habits, reshape patterns, and essentially rewrite one's internal algorithms—creating a new program, if you will. We encounter various types of plans on a daily basis, I guess, but this particular one should probably be committed to paper.

Unfortunately, speaking from my own rather disappointing experience, I’ve lost my grip on criticality and objectivity. I find myself being more subjective than I ever thought possible. The plans I had previously laid out—which were once quite clearly defined—have become difficult to execute, and now, regrettably, they seem entirely impossible. My sole objective was simply to be an objective individual in the truest sense of the word; to strive toward being an ideal human being. You know, someone conscious, rational, and possessing all those other qualities one might generally attribute to a perfected human ideal.

The most effective way to organize an entire project is by establishing short-term, medium-term, and long-term goals. In this manner, it becomes much easier to monitor one's own path, and those small victories along the way serve as the necessary motivation to keep pressing forward.
Implementing various daily, weekly, monthly, and annual routines and rituals is also essential, as this is how we cultivate new habits and patterns. Furthermore, these routines act as anchors to help us maintain focus. For similar reasons, I would suggest that journaling is another indispensable element.

Yes, precisely. Now, while navigating a crisis and facing a lack of options, I have noticed just how vital rituals and routines truly are... they are absolutely necessary. Unfortunately, if I were a perfectly sound individual, perhaps I wouldn't have even realized this until today. But for now, it is my only way to hold onto those fleeting moments of concentration I’ve managed to scrape together over the last few years. Consider this my attempt at responding to this topic—your text is more than merely interesting; I might even say it is logical and coherent. I am actually quite glad I woke up at 3:30 AM to find you had something sensible to write about.🙂

It would also be beneficial to create an Avatar—a detailed mental construct, somewhat like a potential future version of oneself. The Avatar represents everything I am not; everything I desire to become; everything I will ultimately evolve into.
One requires patience; one needs immense dedication, courage, faith, and significant sacrifice to truly conquer oneself.
In short, that is all.

I suspect psychologists and their ilk might call that the superego... at least, that is how it strikes me. From what I know of myself—well, from what I thought I knew in the past—I believe I was quite heavily influenced by it; it guided me through most of my life. Or so I thought. Lately, however, I haven't really been feeling "alive," and I suspect it’s due to a rebellion of the Ego in an attempt at basic survival. To put it bluntly, the Ego simply lost its temper and decided, "From now on, we do things my way." My apologies to those around me, but I simply don't have the strength to break down. The Ego says, "Don't go crazy; I still have work to do." Just wait and see.😁

Now, I am curious about your experiences regarding this subject. I am interested in your theories, but above all, I am interested in your practical experiences, if you have any to share.

Practical experiences... personally... they were excellent. No drugs, no alcohol... ugh... for the entire duration of that period (about thirty years)... a very, very good experience, quite vibrant😁... despite the highs and lows, I would gladly live through it again. That state of consciousness remained somewhat obscured by the distractions of modern society, yet it was always there. At the time, I didn't realize how easy it could actually be. If I had known what awaited me, I might have fled from all the absurdity and trivialities of life long ago, but I suppose it's easy to play the general after the war is over.😁

Theoretically speaking... well, I haven't written extensively on it. I spent most of my time contemplating and drawing conclusions internally. I regret that I wasn't more conscious of it back then; instead, I arrived at realizations only spontaneously or through bits of information gathered from my surroundings.

I believe people who still discover themselves and the world simultaneously—that particular combination of words feels most accurate to me—are still pioneers. It would be interesting if it could remain that way: for every individual to travel alone, unburdened by the pressures and influences of society, save for the natural world.

warning: I wouldn't exactly recommend this kind of practice if you're living in an unstable or "toxic" environment... I was fortunate enough to grow up in a relatively stable family and a more or less harmless surroundings... if I hadn't been... given what I've had to endure as an adult, I don't believe I would be standing here in this state, neither mentally nor physically ☕

These kinds of trips—which, in my opinion, are essential for expanding consciousness and individual development—are things I wouldn't suggest to people who lack control over their own lives... whether they happen to be PhDs or starving artists; if they aren't prepared to lose their minds along the way, it’s probably better not to play games without boundaries 😉

May you live a hundred years... hats off to you, maestro... ugh... long live the internet! ... and now, where did that morning Xanax go? 😍

Nicholas Gonzalez said:So, this is really my main question—is there a way to do this that feels more effortless, more natural? Over the years, I’ve managed to kick some bad habits, overcome social anxiety, and all that stuff. I’ve also successfully adopted new ways of thinking; my whole perspective has shifted. On the 🙂 flip side, the peace I currently
feel regarding the future... it almost borders on indifference. I can't tell if that's a good thing or a bad thing, because my future is still uncertain—financially and in just about every other way. I've reached this point where I simply don't worry anymore, which leads people to think I'm cold or heartless. I don't know, it's like an inner voice is constantly telling me, "Don't worry, everything will work out. Fear is unnecessary; anxiety is just a burden." And honestly, it's like watching a bird fly—it just happens: my basic needs get met without any real struggle. Actually, maybe the word "indifferent" should be replaced with "carefree," because indifference sounds somewhat depressing, almost suicidal. And for me, depression is a completely foreign concept. I've been through all the states: angry, empty, lost, hopeless—but never depressed. I guess I'm just one of those irritatingly positive people.

Man, please, just protect yourself... don't go bragging about it... remember the unrefined and uncivilized environments out there... people like you can be a huge target, and I don't want to make you paranoid, but why limit yourself because of human stupidity? Everything will be fine until it comes down to life and survival... then you'll realize exactly what being uncivilized and reckless means... you'll fall, and your surroundings will absolutely screw you over... sorry for the graphic illustration, but if you are truly in the state of consciousness you claim to be, I imagine my words shouldn't upset you too much. If I recall my own experience correctly, my words shouldn't bother you much, though they might perhaps interest you, since what I'm saying might be slightly off-topic, but I feel a need to share this, unfortunately sufficient experience, in the hope that it might help someone soften the blow, or better yet, avoid an unnecessary loss of energy... mm yes... come on, Xanax, start working already 😢

Nicholas Gonzalez8 said:Why do you feel like you "need" anything at all? And does it even matter what anyone else is up to? Just ask yourself who you want to be, what you want to own, what you want to do, and what kind of people you want in your circle—then just start living that life. Don't stress about hitting some perfect standard; just do the best you can with what you know. Get your head and your heart on the same page, keep moving forward, and try to actually enjoy the ride along the way. 🙂

And honestly, being too attached to things—whether it's a partner or a job—is where the trouble starts. Sure, it's great to understand, respect, and love people, but becoming dependent on someone or something? That's a trap. If you want to meet different people or try out new connections, then wrap up what you have now and move on. No guilt trips, no regrets—just take the good memories and the experiences you gained with you. And hey, if you're meant to cross paths again later, you will.

I suppose I can see why you’d ask that. Honestly, I might have phrased things similarly myself before someone nearly took my life—well, they tried to, anyway. They intended to kill me, and people I actually care about... steal from us, deceive us... it's all quite heavy. To be perfectly honest, understanding what others are thinking is a matter of survival for me at this point. My very existence depends on it, and unfortunately, I have a family to consider. Though, I suppose I must remain prepared for the possibility that everything could vanish in an instant. I don't know if I possess the mental fortitude to stay connected to them anymore... it just feels impossible sometimes.

It matters immensely what others think, and it matters even more what they actually do. Life carries weight regardless of my personal opinions on murder... unless, of course, one lives in total isolation from the rest of society. 😍

Do you find yourselves dwelling on mere desires, or do you focus more on actual needs? ☕

Mhm, I suppose we all bear the brunt of our own mistakes... naturally.

The idea that the world is just some beautiful little fairy tale is quite a stretch... though I guess 😉The Little Prince
isn't half bad either.

First, I find myself compelled once again to offer a certain bitof
philosophical commentary;
As someone once noted: one should be self-caused. One ought to forge their own nature. There is little merit in following Heraclitus. You should strive to be your own imperative—rather than adhering to Kant’s. To the best of one's ability, and as much as one is capable, one must construct their own truths. After all, trusting the truths of others is a futile endeavor.

Secondly, I must venture an opinion that will likely offend the majority of you, though I suppose that is to be expected;

People are simply people—whether they be doctors, administrators, or moderators. There is no deity, nor any set of regulations, that stands above any individual among them. Every single person accepts the rules and uses them as a guide; they act, they exist, they live... however they choose to do so.

If you possess both intellect and character, you will inevitably establish your own principles.

If you lack those qualities, you will merely become whatever your environment demands, requires, or expects you to be.

In my view, a person is a human being first and foremost. That is my stance. If someone places anything else "ahead" of their humanity—be it a profession, a social role, or some personal fantasy—then, for me, they cease to be a person. It matters not if they are Jesus Christ or just some kid playing video games.

Now, that is merely my perspective. I suspect some in this thread will dismiss it quite easily, acting as if they have never harbored a moment of doubt or moral ambiguity themselves.😁

Perhaps we could reach an agreement to be a bit more skeptical of others and perhaps a little less self-critical? Or better yet, let us aim for some level of equality; if you feel a need for justice, then try to be just as critical of others as you are of yourselves.

Cheers.☕

Angela Gray12 said:If there’s one thing I’ve learned in this life, it’s that the people I hit it off with instantly—those folks who feel like old friends from minute one—are usually the ones who don't stick around. Maybe I leaned in too fast. Too much trust, too much honesty, too much opening up right out of the gate. But looking back, the math never adds up; the vulnerability was always lopsided. It was just me being an idiot and acting naive.

On the flip side, the people where things were awkward at first? Those people where we had to work through some friction, maybe a misunderstanding or just a general lack of vibe during the introduction... those are the people I actually have solid relationships with today.
It’s clear to me now that we actually put in the work to understand and accept one another. That mutual effort to build a friendship means a hell of a lot more to me than those "easy" connections built on empty promises and words that clearly carry zero weight for them.

I don't have a massive circle of friends, but honestly, I'm fine with that. I’d much rather give 100% of my time and myself to a couple of real people than try to please a crowd of a hundred individuals who couldn't care less about me if their lives depended on it.

I used to have this mindset where I wouldn't expect anything in return—just give everything I had and ask for nothing. Well, that bit me in the ass more than a few times. Now, I just cut my losses. If I see a relationship—any kind of relationship—heading in the wrong direction, or if I realize I'm the only one trying to keep the engine running, I walk. I’d much rather be alone than feel lonely while standing right next to someone else.

I don't let people in easily, and once they're in, they aren't easy to shake. I tell people that upfront. But even then, one small thing—if it's real enough—can tear my guard down or slam it shut again. And when it's down? I'm the type of person who would take a bullet or a knife to the throat for you.
If someone decides to screw me over or play me for a fool, I’ll endure it for a little while. Mostly because I'm still stupid enough to care about someone who acts like they give a damn. I’ll take it and take it, but eventually, I snap. And when I do, there is no turning back. I don't just burn the bridge; I blow it up, douse the wreckage in gasoline, and once it's just a pile of ash, I sweep it up and bury it like it never existed.
My feelings for that person might never truly vanish, but once I figure out who they really are and how they operate... the second chance is gone. Forever.
We can be civil. I’ll step in if you need help with something, sure. But the friendship? The trust? That part is dead and buried.

Look, I know I can be difficult. But if I’m willing to accept someone exactly as they are, flaws and all—and if those flaws don't bother me (hell, sometimes I even find them endearing)—then I won't let that person dump their frustrations or their guilt onto me just because they messed up.

I’m not afraid of my own company, and I’ve never needed anyone in my life. But there are certain people I wanted to share it with—the highs, the lows, the laughter, and the silence. Unfortunately, those same people only needed me for a specific purpose or a specific timeframe. And once that time was up, they moved on.

People distance themselves and pretend they don't care, even when they're dying to connect. They're terrified of showing their vulnerable side or letting their true face show because they think nobody will want them that way. Fear turns us into the worst possible versions of ourselves.
I think that’s why I clicked so well with the people who were hard to get along with initially. They showed me their real selves right away. They were angry, frustrated, maybe even arrogant. But I was able to see past the armor and recognize the actual person underneath. Every day, I discover a new virtue or a new flaw that makes that person even more real to me.

Trust is incredibly hard to build, but it only takes one tiny thing to watch it all go up in smoke. It all comes down to how we react when someone tests us or pokes us exactly where it hurts the most.😁

I appreciate you sharing your perspective and your personal history on this... I suspect that genuine people like that are becoming quite rare these days.

Anyway, I hope we don't end up clashing if you decide to disagree with me.😁

Excerpt from mass hypnosis - TBFa

Who am I? Honestly, I haven't the slightest clue; my mind feels like a dark, bottomless abyss.
My brain functions on nothing but ones and zeros—a life that feels utterly hollow and bleak.
My consciousness has become entirely digital, like some satellite drifting in orbit.
Every thought is being steered, curated, and constructed by an outside force.
Whatever they want, I can't resist; I even tried practicing yoga to find some center.
I’ve even experimented with substances, the kind that knock you right off your feet.
But nothing seems to work, except perhaps when my own conscience starts lying to me.
When it whispers that everything is fine, telling me to just forget all my troubles.
To toss my worries aside and simply dive back into the fray.
Just let the crowd carry you away, lost in mass hypnosis.
That is mass hypnosis...

Let the crowd sweep you up, caught in mass hypnosis.
No matter where life drags you, you really ought to remember who you actually are.
That is mass hypnosis.

Come on, crowd, let yourselves be swept away.
Just let it happen, walking barefoot into the unknown...

😍