276 posts shown.
dustyhound5 said:And that goes double for drugs.
Drugs shouldn't be your authority and they definitely shouldn't be your priority.
Man, come on, you don't even realize what you're doing to your own head... you're tearing it apart, and I really hope God helps you through this.
When I read what you wrote, my first instinct was to give you a piece of my mind, but I won't.
Let me ask you something: do you actually understand what I'm doing to my consciousness with drugs? Are you speaking from your own experience, or are you just reciting things you heard on the news or saw on some TV show? If you haven't lived it, you have no right to lecture me. But if you have, then that's a different story, and I'll respect your perspective.
I could tell you that old story about the boy whose dad sent him to buy a cow, but he didn't know what one looked like, so everyone tricked him into buying a goat instead...
I'm not taking criticism regarding drugs from anyone unless they've learned something from their own life. That goes for psychologists and psychiatrists, too.
mistymoose21 said:@ Noah Sanchez7
Just take a second to really think about the kind of life you could build for yourself. Can you even wrap your head around what that level of success would actually mean for you? Honestly, look at it this way: the harder the climb, the better the view from the top. Per Aspera Ad Astra.
Exactly. That's my goal now, and I'm working on it..
There is no other way.. 👍
Sean Martinez4 said:I think the Gospel of Thomas mentions a lot more things that act as parallels to his resurrection.
Resurrection is basically just the "Heart" in action. It isn't some mystical thing at all. ☕
Just get in touch with your own Chi—if anyone actually manages to do that—and that’s really all there is to it. 😍
Could you please explain what Chi is?
mistymoose21 said:You know what, guys? You all talk a big game about being "rebels," but just like those sheltered kids who think they're tough, you don't have the slightest clue how to actually break out of the cages you've built for yourselves.
A few years back, I was spiraling through the exact same thoughts you’re having right now. I obsessed over finding a way out, worked at it, and eventually, I found my answer. Peace of mind didn't require a struggle; it just arrived. Now, I’m just following the path that makes sense to me—a path that feels completely natural, deeply ingrained, and one where I don't have a single shred of doubt.
Anyway, thanks for nothing. Bye.
Thanks to you as well.
I trust you. I believe that such a path exists for me too, and right now, I’m searching for it. I'm searching for it obsessively.
To be honest, I see plenty of options ahead of me, but none of them are perfect—just like you said. Every single one comes with its own set of "buts." It’s a real toss-up... either I pick wrong, or they pick wrong.
I'm an optimist, despite what my signature says... (about to go ahead and change that).
I should also mention that I’m aware of my own duality. It feels like I’m stuck somewhere between two extremes—never fully one side, yet somehow both at once.
The issue lies within me...
I also realize that I tend toward absolutism; my soul seems deeply tied to the idea of the absolute.
It looks like Einstein was right about everything being relative... and that’s where I struggle—I can never seem to wrap a story up or truly find closure.
Scott Sanders2 said:So you're saying you judged me based on my posts here? If that's the case, I don't quite follow how you reached those wrong conclusions about what's going on in my mind... When I talk about prejudice, I'm not talking about how we perceive each other—we aren't really the point of this discussion—but rather your first post where you basically called anyone traveling to Buffalo or Mauritius a moron. Even after this back-and-forth, I've noticed a pattern where people who constantly accuse others of being biased often end up being just as bad, if not worse. You took people with different values and broadly labeled them as idiots without them ever doing anything to you, and then you try to hide behind that cheap "well, there are exceptions" defense. I've seen that kind of sweeping generalization plenty of times in America... like saying "all members of that group are criminals, with few exceptions." I wear nice suits, I travel, I drive a decent car, and I usually have a smile on my face... it seems I fall right into that category that gets under your skin, the group you dismissed as "idiots." Based on your own biases, you slotted me into a mold, deciding I was shallow, robotic, unfulfilled, and predictable... look, man, don't judge a book by its cover unless you're willing to actually put in the effort to understand someone's character. Like I said, your post didn't hit me personally, I just reacted because it was so full of bias, and I have a bit of an allergy to that... Just live your life and let others live theirs, and respect other people's values, at least until they start interfering with yours. Even the very first response to your post pointed out that you aren't any better than the people who annoy you.
It feels like you just need someone to aim your negative energy at, so you take the path of least resistance and aim it at people in nice clothes driving nice cars.
As far as divisions go, believe me, we are completely in agreement there. My presence on the American forum rather than the foreign one should be proof enough.
I don't see how which forum you use matters, though I'll take your word that you aren't obsessed with nationalistic prejudices—not that Americans are more preoccupied with that than people over there... Still, it seems to me you divide people into those in fine clothing and those who aren't.
And rest assured, I'm not judging—though I admit I do judge, and you can call that a flaw of mine—your decision to go to Buffalo to experience different cultures and such...
I'm telling you again, don't get hung up on mentions of Buffalo, Fords, or whatever... I wasn't talking about the destinations, I was talking about the people who seek them out for the wrong reasons...
Fine, your post was definitely a broad swipe at everyone, but I suppose that was just your way of expressing yourself, insults and all...
Then there are the people heading to Buffalo just to flex on everyone else... I have to admit, they make me want to gag. It’s the same feeling I get when I see someone buying a high-end Ford just to impress people—which, if I'm being honest, makes me want to gag at myself too. But that total lack of intellect, that hollow existence... those things you mentioned don't necessarily have to be the cause for such behavior. Unfortunately, we live in a society where superficiality—the suits, the cars—basically dictates how people are perceived, though from what I can tell, you fit right into that cycle yourself, even if you aren't consciously aware of it...
You're right, I am full of prejudice. I realized that today..
I've always fought against them, and now I'm a slave to them.. I hope it doesn't last long..
Nietzsche said something about that....
Harold Flores4 said:I honestly wonder what kind of people spend their lives asking themselves things like, "Who am I really?" or "Where am I right now, and what's my purpose in being here?" It’s like they’re constantly questioning the actual quality of the universe surrounding them and the energy within themselves. I catch myself drifting into those same thoughts quite often. Am I special because of some cosmic reason? Honestly, I don't think so. I’m special just because I exist as me. It doesn't even matter if I'm picking up my jeans at Replay instead of some flea market, or if I'm driving a Ford rather than an old Chevrolet.
Is it actually possible to stay true to yourself while still being someone unique? Personally, I think it is. So, if you want to be special, then go ahead and be it! But you better be ready to accept everyone else who doesn't see eye to eye with us, or who carries themselves differently and holds different views. And look, I really respect how hard you try to help people discover their true selves and teach them to be honest with themselves and others, but... given your lifestyle... I'm genuinely worried you won't have enough time left to actually contribute to the evolution of human consciousness. It's a shame. I truly hope you manage to stick it out. There, I said it. I care.
Oh, I'll make it. Even though I'm currently in love with the struggle, I'll find my way back to clarity once the sediment from the mess I've made finally settles to the bottom.
😘
northernsailor said:How wonderful, isn't it? Some anonymous soul plucked it right out of a book, apparently.
And did you exhaust yourself?....
Let your brain graze for a bit and just enjoy it.👍
Best,🙂
🙂 🙂
Yeah, I can feel burnout creeping up on me...
George Jackson5 said:There’s zero point in trying to lift anyone else up if you haven't even sorted out your own mess first.
Noah Sanchez7, get it together and stop with the self-pity already.
Anything is possible if you actually have the will—whether that means bending the world to your liking or forcing yourself to fit in...
Every bit of effort eventually pays off, I truly believe there's a reward for the grind.
Either that, or just keep being rebels for the sake of it—you clearly have no idea what you're missing out on in the real world.
I second everything you said, and I'll say it again: being a hater is just exhausting..
northernsailor said:It's pretty obvious... nothing is truly unchangeable; some things are just harder or easier to shift, right?
I am my own living proof. I used to be incredibly pessimistic, skeptical of everything, and generally guarded—just a bundle of negative traits. I've changed. It wasn't a sudden overhaul, but it was a gradual process (and I'll try not to jinx it by saying too much, lest I slip back into old habits)...
That doesn't mean my core philosophies have shifted entirely; those old views are still there. However, I can at least say I approach certain problems differently than I did before. My surroundings played a significant role, certainly. By observing others, I evolved. Now, I find myself trying to help a friend who is currently stuck in the same rut I once occupied. Not through some intensive therapy session—that's not really my forte—but through more indirect means...
Best,🙂
I've realized that hating on others is just exhausting..
By the way, I really love your signature. Lots of it.
Hey there, "little Bud," you've been quiet lately...
What are you guys even talking about?
Back when I was 19 living in New York City, I actually bought some magic mushrooms from a shop—back when that was perfectly legal there—and I spent time connecting with a tree. Well, maybe not "talking," but we shared this deep silence where we just totally understood each other. It basically told me how lucky it was to be right where it was.
I mean, I just had a single mushroom, nothing like LSD or heavy chemicals.
Everything you're describing sounds like nothing more than that person's hypersensitivity. And honestly, that's where those beautiful, noble thoughts come from—along with the ugly, destructive ones. That’s just how it works.
It isn't strange at all. It really bugs me that you guys keep labeling him as sick. The world is incredibly, INCREDIBLY diverse. There's so much variety out there. You've got hundreds of thousands of insect species, millions of different types of everything else. Humans are the same way. No one is "sick"; it's all just part of the design. Who is "responsible" for that design? We could say God.
And I don't think God would appreciate some of you trying to divide up His "fruits" on this earth...
So, use your heads!👍
I wanted to say one more thing, but my focus right now isn't even at a 9 out of 100.
goodnight
northernsailor said:Does anyone else—and I mean everyone here, not just Noah Sanchez7—find it fascinating how this whole country acts like one massive stage where we’re all just playing parts? Personally, I feel like I’ve been cast in some sort of tragicomedy, haha...
When I really sit back and think about it, it's actually quite profound. Of course, the fact that everything has spilled over the edges of our little bubble is just the flip side of the coin...
I honestly wish I could be a slightly better actress than I am at times...
Best,🙂
It's actually kind of charming in the end. Just like how Johnny says at the end of the movie: "I'll be just another freak in the kingdom of freaks."
northernsailor said:No, we aren't constructs of our own minds; we are products of our environment, plain and simple.
From birth onwards, it's all predetermined... the trouble starts when we begin questioning why we were molded that way. That's where the discontent creeps in. To suggest we are creations of our own minds would be a joke so ridiculous it would leave people speechless.
I suspect you'll change your tune once you're standing on your own two feet... and it'll sting if your boss at the firm demands you wear an expensive suit. Because a suit doesn't actually make the man... and you'll put it on and grin from ear to ear because you're the only one who knows what's really going on inside your head. You'll need the money for groceries or, well, other necessities. Terry Anderson10 put it perfectly.
Not that I'm suggesting you should bottle up your thoughts... back in the day, people like you used to laugh at philosophers, and now we find ourselves quoting their words.
Cheers.🙂
I hear you on some points, but I disagree that it's unchangeable. It shouldn't be "well, my environment made me this way, so deal with it." That isn't who you are—it's just what was forced upon you. The desire to shed that imposed identity and find your true self is what some call "awakening," and it's a difficult path that many avoid simply because it's hard.
Scott Sanders2 said:The stuff regarding that Unknown probably won't catch your interest—I just enjoy traveling, exploring new places, and meeting new people... that’s what makes me feel alive. And since I'm doing things that actually bring me happiness, I don't spend much time second-guessing myself. I honestly thought you’d latch onto that example about the car I mentioned, because to me, it was a perfect illustration of that social pressure you used to talk about... the kind of pressure where I felt like I "had" to conform. As for shaving, well, I'm a guy, and dressing sharp for work is just part of the job. To put it in your terms, I bought the car and that suit from the boss just so I could earn the money needed to fund my own interests. Whether it's comfortable or not, I feel better in a well-tailored suit than I would in ripped jeans or a formal tuxedo... the burden is buying the suit, not wearing it...
If you have questions, feel free to ask, but let me explain why I felt compelled to reply to your post in the first place... I’ve developed this deep-seated allergy to prejudice, to people judging someone else's values, to tribalism, narrow-mindedness, and spiritual stagnation... my philosophy has always been pretty simple—live and let live. In that initial post of yours, I caught glimpses of those exact things, though perhaps I misread the situation, but it seemed like you were busy condemning anyone who didn't fit into your specific worldview. Maybe you used those insults just to stir the pot and get a reaction, which I can respect, but then you doubled down by saying you just "can't stand" those other people. To top it off, you asked if I was a Jew, and that whole bit about how "everyone in your group is an idiot, except for the exceptions" reminds me of that tired, mainstream rhetoric where people claim everyone from a certain background is a monster, barring a few outliers... it’s honestly exhausting dealing with such shallow, closed-off, and intolerant perspectives. I don't expect the world to applaud my way of life any more than I expect them to applaud yours, but I’ve managed to reach a point where I can respect people regardless of their identity, their beliefs, or what they hold dear. It might sound a bit sentimental coming from me, but I tend to get worked up when I run into someone I perceive as being that intellectually limited—not that I'm labeling you, as I could easily have misinterpreted your opening remarks... I imagine you’ve dealt with your fair share of people judging your own lifestyle and your own self-destructive tendencies, so maybe you’ll eventually understand where I’m coming from...
I don't want to get caught up in this anymore... I should probably just add that because of all those bitter voices waiting to claim I'm acting like a know-it-all or lecturing them, I'll clarify that isn't my intention; I’m simply observing the nuances of the human psyche and how people behave, and I have no desire to position myself above anyone else or anything of the sort...
I think everyone here is ultimately searching for some insight into human nature... You laid out your situation quite clearly, which added a lot to the conversation. While those initial prejudices, insults, and tired stereotypes probably weren't necessary, I'm glad you're part of this forum and sharing your particular philosophy...
You claim not to like prejudice or people who hold it. You accused me of forming an opinion based on some projected movie in my head. That isn't true. I formed an opinion based on the information you actually provided here on the forum. It's exactly how you formed your impression of me. Nothing more than that.
Regarding divisions, believe me, we are completely in agreement there. Proof enough is that on this forum, I identify with the US rather than any other side.
You correctly concluded that I started the topic to "create sparks," but if you had read a bit closer, you would have seen I was talking about mood swings; I gave an example of waking up with the phrase "straight, there is no other way," and by evening being the complete opposite. I added that I was writing a post that evening...
And rest assured, I am not judging, though I admit I do judge—you can consider that my flaw. As for your trip to Hawaii to experience different cultures and such...
Again, don't get hung up on terms like Hawaii or Mercedes-Benz, because that wasn't my point. I was referring to people who pursue those things for the wrong reasons...
Man, there are way too many posts here for me to reply to everyone individually right now.
We should all agree on one thing: I’m talking about spirituality. Honestly, I’m not even sure if that’s the right word for it. What I really mean is an openness to one's inner self—being open with yourself first, and then extending that openness toward others and the world around you.
It doesn't really matter whose bread I'm eating, because my focus isn't on material things. To answer the question: I'm eating bread that I didn't earn myself. I'm currently a student and don't have a steady job, though I pick up odd jobs here and there.
The fact that I don't eat the bread I earned basically throws my entire philosophy out the window, but whatever.
Since we're talking about being open with ourselves, I have just one question for everyone.
Do you feel even the slightest change within yourself the moment you step out the door?
How different does it feel when you’re just hanging out at home versus that exact moment you step out the door?
I'll tell you this... that moment exists. It might not happen right away, but it’s out there, and not everyone realizes it.
And what exactly is that moment? It’s that specific instant where you put on a mask, almost like sliding into an invisible suit.
Is that what they call the superego? I wouldn't know. Honestly, it doesn't even matter. What actually matters is...
It’s all about that specific moment—the point where you cease being who you were. You transform into a creation of your own mind, designed specifically to project the version of yourself you want the world to see.
Designing an environment—well, a hundred years ago, you would have been wearing a different kind of invisible suit, just like 300 years ago, and again in the future. It'll always be different.
And where exactly do you all fit into this whole mess?
Most people either don't get it, or they do and just shrug it off like, "Eh, that's just how things are." I’m telling you, it's definitely not normal.
I think I expanded my consciousness in a way that might not have been the best idea, using psychedelics like marijuana and LSD. To be clear, I didn't start using drugs because I was struggling; it was actually the opposite. I was perfectly happy and content with myself when I first started.
How did I expand my awareness? Some people call it meditation. Personally, I’d just say I stopped. Like becoming a zero. No activity... Just being there, observing everything—mostly watching people and the situations they find themselves in.
I've started scanning my own thoughts. It’s actually quite simple: a thought pops up right before an action, you just pause instead of reacting immediately, and then you take a moment to really examine what that thought was all about.
First, identify the need. Second, determine how you respond and why you choose that specific reaction. Third, define the payoff from your action. You can even apply this logic to something as simple as an Average Joe grabbing a bottle of water.
I won't bore you any further with that...
Let's be honest with ourselves first; after all, who else can you truly be open and sincere with if not yourself?
Scott Sanders2, what was your actual reason for heading out to that island? Just wanted to clear the air—I don't actually hate people who travel there, if you took it that way.
What’s your motivation for wearing makeup and dressing up for work? Once you answer that, the most important thing is: do you actually feel comfortable in it, or does getting ready feel like a chore?
Just to be clear, I’m not trying to provoke anyone or start any trouble. I truly want everyone here to be genuinely happy; seeing you all stay positive and spread good vibes really helps me out, too.
Everyone is lying. What can I even do? The world is a mess, and there’s nothing I can personally change. But honestly, I think a lot depends on every single one of us. If we could just flip that negative energy into something positive, the world would be a much better place to live.
I don't want to overstep. Just so we're clear—before any critics jump in to say I’m acting like a know-it-all or lecturing anyone—I'm not trying to be superior. I’m just reflecting on human psychology and how people behave. I have no desire to put myself above anyone else.
I think that, in a way, I'm just chipping in. The development of human consciousness is the foundation for everything; it’s the core of our very existence. Even if I'm off base, I actually welcome any fact-based criticism—it helps me make sure I'm not just stubbornly insisting that I'm right when I'm actually wrong.
Just one more thing... I have this vision of paradise, an Eden, and it’s not something meant for the afterlife—it's something we should experience right here on Earth. Honestly, I don't see eye to eye with the traditional Christian view on this. I don't think Eve actually messed things up for us; if anything, it was the opposite. I believe God knew exactly what He was doing when He forbade the fruit. He knew she would take it, and that’s exactly what He intended, because human curiosity is a beautiful thing.
If that story captures the heart of everything, then our fundamental duty is to see this whole "exile from paradise" through to the end.
I believe the answer, the actual solution, lies in that single moment when you step out of your house and experience a subtle shift. If we could just get rid of the masks, the pretenses, the constant grooming, and all that superficiality, we would finally be free. We’d be free with one another, and love would take over, bringing Eden back to us..
northernsailor said:So, there’s this growing narrative suggesting that the urge for social change is somehow fueled by drug use. Personally, I don't buy it. If anything, I’d argue the opposite: drugs are more likely consumed by those entitled "daddy's boys" who have nothing better to do than chase pure hedonism because they lack the mental capacity to actually contemplate radical shifts in global structures or ways of thinking. It's just mindless indulgence.
I suppose fifty years ago, it was all about that raw Rock n' Roll energy, but today it seems to have shifted toward whatever the current "vibe" is. I haven't spent much time in those circles, so maybe I'm just rambling here. 😲
I'm not trying to contradict you, Noah Sanchez7...
Just another person born in the wrong era, I guess. But thanks—as my friend would say, "stay frosty." For now, I've had quite enough alcohol, haha. It really makes you wonder what people are willing to do just to alter their state of mind, if only to spend a couple of hours living in the kind of world they wish actually existed...
On a side note—I'm genuinely impressed by your writing style and how you process things. I'm currently wading through a decent psychology textbook for an essay, and honestly, I could see you being cited in there for good reason.👍
Best,🙂
Look, I don't know if I can truly call myself my father's son, but the truth is, he's been gone for seven years now. Maybe I'm more like my mother—and maybe I've just been spoiled.
One thing to keep in mind is that I wasn't using drugs just to run away from my problems—though, if I'm being honest, maybe that was part of it. Mostly, though, I used them to sharpen my focus, helping me study better and really perceive the people and situations around me.
Marijuana basically sharpens your senses fivefold and speeds up your brain by five times. I’ve been there myself.
Since this involves Horse, it’s more of that specific vibe. I felt like I was being labeled a junkie, so I might as well just wrap things up with Horse.
I don't know. I feel like I used drugs to dive headfirst into some dark, secret side of humanity that I was never meant to see. It’s the kind of truth that leaves you feeling disgusted and terrified, completely shattering every dream you ever had about yourself, your family, or anyone else. It felt like trading away all my beautiful illusions just to face the brutal reality of what’s actually out there.
I've learned some things that I never expected to find out—like the fact that we're on our own. We really are all alone. It’s actually pretty eerie.
I definitely wasn't thinking that three or four years ago.
George Jackson5 said:I hear you loud and clear. (By the way, I'm George Jackson5—I don't usually post much unless I'm introducing myself).
But honestly, the sooner you make up your mind, the better... at least you won't be stuck on this emotional roller coaster every single day. And hey, nobody is saying you won't still be able to do whatever the hell you want.
Drugs might seem like a blast for a little while, but eventually, they just consume you. It stops being fun... it actually becomes as miserable as it can possibly get.
So, how exactly do you plan on getting off the wagon?
Exactly, I'm fully aware of that. I spend every waking moment trying to find that final answer, that moment where I can say, "This is me, and this is how I'm going to live."
It reminds me of those lyrics from a band back in my hometown: "To be the same, to be special, to be free, to be just my own self!"
I'm quitting the blockers. This is probably my fifth attempt at getting clean, though the first four times weren't even my choice—it was just pressure from my family.
Now, I've decided to go clean, at least until I can finally stand on my own two feet and show everyone, "See? I can do it," before heading back to my destructive ways.
Whatever. I guess I'm just a destructive person.
This goes out to both George Jackson5 and Terry Anderson10..
I’m not sure if I made myself clear, but I feel like I’m standing at a massive crossroads. One path leads straight into the mainstream "real world"—which, honestly, feels pretty dirty to me—and living my life on this planet in harmony with some sort of universal balance 🙄. The other path? Total destruction. By that, I mean hitting the drugs until I pass out, living that wild Rock 'n' Roll lifestyle without any regrets... just pure rock until the day I die. It’s the complete opposite of what "polite society" expects. It's my own way of saying, "screw you all."
I want to do what I actually want to do. Mom, sorry. Brother, sorry. Everyone, I'm sorry for not meeting your expectations...
I could have done it, but once I actually looked at those expectations, they just turned my stomach. Truth is, those aren't even *your* expectations; they're just things you were taught by your parents and everyone before them.
I'm 21 years old. On top of successfully getting off my horse, I really need to choose a direction.
Sometimes I wake up with that old deodorant commercial slogan stuck in my head—"straight, there is no other way"—but by the evening, that whole idea flips 180 degrees in my mind.
That's where the conflict lies, and why I decided to start this thread.
Just keep in mind that I started this and wrote the first post late last night..🙄