The Internet Is A Well Laid Trap
...Full Of Irresistible Bait For Those Who Have Lost Sight Of Solution Oriented Living
In today's hyperconnected world, it's all too easy to get caught up in the never-ending cycle of internet drama. From social media feuds to viral controversies, the allure of online attention can be intoxicating. However, amidst the chaos and noise of the digital landscape, it's essential to recognize the true nature of our motivations – are we seeking solutions, or simply seeking comfort?
As someone who has recently disconnected from the online world, I've come to realize that much of what passes for engagement and activism is, in reality, little more than a distraction. I've deleted my Twitter account and limited my time on platforms like Telegram, recognizing that the constant barrage of information and drama was ultimately serving as a hindrance rather than a help.
At the heart of the issue lies the pervasive nature of attention traps – mechanisms designed to keep us hooked on the dopamine rush of likes, shares, and viral content. In our quest for online validation and recognition, we often lose sight of our true goals and priorities. Are we truly effective individuals, capable of accomplishing great deeds on our own, or are we simply slaves to the algorithms and algorithms that govern our online interactions?
Reflecting on my own experiences as a musician trying to break into the Canadian market, I'm reminded of the fickle nature of online audiences. In a landscape dominated by fleeting moments of excitement and entertainment, true talent and creativity often take a back seat to the pursuit of instant gratification. The Canadian audience, like so many others, is driven by the desire for momentary dopamine hits, rather than meaningful connections or transformative experiences.
But beyond the realm of entertainment lies a deeper truth – the human desire for inclusion and belonging. While the internet may offer the illusion of connection, it often serves to exacerbate feelings of isolation and alienation. As we immerse ourselves in online communities, we risk losing touch with the realities of the world around us.
In the wake of the tumultuous events of 2020, many of the online spaces that once served as bastions of hope and resistance have become graveyards of despair and disillusionment. The very movements and causes that once united us are now tainted by infighting and division. While I remain critical of government overreach and injustice which is clear and apparent to anyone paying attention, I refuse to dwell on the darkness which is being presented to us as bait to pull us into another trap to draw our focus.
Instead, I choose to focus on building a better future – one grounded in personal growth, community building, and meaningful connections. I urge others to do the same, to break free from the cycle of internet drama and embrace a life of purpose and fulfillment. Whether it's spending time with loved ones, pursuing passions and hobbies, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, there are countless ways to find meaning and fulfillment beyond the confines of the digital world. If I’m not at home building something for my family, I’m at work building something for my community.
Ultimately, it may be more convenient to simply stabilize our existing environments and exist as a part of them, rather than risk the uncertainty of building something new. But true growth and fulfillment lie in embracing the unknown, in daring to dream of a better tomorrow and taking the necessary steps to make it a reality. So you now have to choose: step out of the shadows of internet drama and into the light of possibility where solutions await those bold enough to seek them, or decay and become the rotted vegetables that compose the compost on which others will build beautiful lives.
I often wonder what I get out of X.