Everybody is numbing themselves

ABC 204: On the unbearable uncoolness of apathy

I was planning to send out an article about the election, but I figured you all would be drinking from the election firehose for the next few days, so I’ll spare you. Instead, this week’s article is on what the author calls “numbing out,” the phenomenon of detaching ourselves from the experience of our lives. It’s one of those pieces that changes the way you see the world.

Numbing out may not sound like anything new. For centuries people have tried to round life’s hard edges by turning to alcohol and other numbing agents. But something about the internet and how we “swim in a wretched sea of meaningless mush” makes numbing out feel unique to this digital age. People would rather numb themselves than engage with our messy, complex world.

The author argues that the antidote to a numb existence is taking a stand for something. This, of course, comes with risks. People may not agree with you! You might later change your mind! But sitting up, opening your eyes, and getting clear on what you believe will make you come alive.

Maybe this week’s article is about the election after all… I hope you exercise your voice and go vote on Tuesday. Apathy is lame.

Here’s the piece: Everyone is numbing out

Warmly,
Simo 

P.S. The song of the week is from FLO, the closest thing we have to Destiny’s Child in 2024. The full songs of the week playlist is here.

P.P.S. It’s my birthday!