Embracing philosophy

Embracing a chosen philosophy is a journey with its share of dangers, but it also opens up a world of exciting possibilities.---- It's fascinating how quickly some people jump to conclusions, isn't it? You mention a philosophy, and before you can even explain, you hear the dreaded "It's a cult!" It’s like a knee-jerk reaction, a label flung without thought. They talk about sacrifice, dying, and suffering as if that's all there is to it. But strangely, they never seem to mention the joy, the life, the sheer excellence that can be found right here on Earth. Yet, the "cult" accusation remains.

The funny thing is, the very people making these accusations often cling to their own systems of belief. They talk about fate, following old patterns, and herding everyone under a single idea. And when you try to question it, they shut you down, saying their faith can't be tested. There's a big difference between believing in something and claiming it's a cold, hard fact. If you truly believe in something, it already exists for you; you don't need to shout from the rooftops that it's "real" for everyone else.

With a clear mind and a full heart, I refuse to be pushed into a corner, screaming and raging at those who follow mystical beliefs, groupthink, or the idea that self-sacrifice is the ultimate good. I stand on the same ground as brave leaders who understood that the philosophy I follow is far from a cult. Despite the immense pressure to conform, I continue on my path. Yes, it's a path filled with challenges, with people turning their backs, with chaos and spite. But I'm ready for it.

Even those closest to me have criticized my strong stance, calling it self-centered, and yes, a cult. This happened after a fantastic trip to California, where I learned a lot, lived by the principles of reason, individuality, and focusing on what you earn, and truly enjoyed learning about clear and logical ideas.

I will never again just accept the poorly thought-out opinions that people, even family, just spout off. Nasty and hurtful words continue to flow, claiming this philosophy is rotten. But that's their problem, not mine. Sure, this philosophy can be tough, and it demands every good quality you have to navigate the world, but it's absolutely doable. I'm tired of the fact that so few people truly grasp the wonderful ideas it presents.

I remember a young person, upon hearing I was going to another conference, exclaiming, "I object!" as if we were in a courtroom. It didn't bother me. I just knew I wanted to respond with, "It's more about objective reality." I held my tongue, though. In the past, I struggled when people didn't want to learn about the philosophy. Not anymore. I've moved past that. My focus remains on what I truly want out of life: to fully experience all the amazing moments this existence has to offer.

Anyone who doesn't respect this new way of thinking can, as a hero from my favorite novel once said, "get the hell out of my way." I'm ready for battle. I'm taking up my sword and shield, putting on my helmet. Whether I get bruised or even physically hurt, I will always proudly champion this radical way of thinking. So, I'm letting go of the constant stream of hatred aimed at me from all sides. I'm letting go of the sharp words and actions thrown my way.

There’s a Curtis Mayfield song, "Move on Up," where he sings, "Your folks might understand you by and by." While that sounds hopeful, the truth is, my family will probably never understand why I chose this philosophy. Or, maybe, it chose me. I was already a leader, respected by teachers and friends. As someone who left community college, I had to fill my mind with the reality of being a man of color in America.

I'm even stepping away from being pushed around by some of the people who actually follow this philosophy. At a talent show, I read a poem, and one lady loudly declared I had "rapped." I could have taken offense, but I simply said, "The only things I wrap are gifts." There have been times I've disagreed with others within the philosophy. Isn't that strange? How can a "cult" have disagreements and arguments among its members? Shouldn't everyone in a cult just agree to drink poisoned fruit juice or wear matching sneakers, hoping some force will take them to another place?

That's precisely why this is a philosophy, not a faith. And that goes for any faith. Even though I'm an atheist, there are people without religious faith who worship material things, spirits, or even just atoms. I'm letting go of the idea that I have to force these ideas on people. Most people who are truly devoted to this philosophy can probably admit they were a bit annoying when they first discovered it. They might have stomped their feet and shouted its core values at every opportunity. I know I did. I gushed out ideas like a fire hydrant spraying water on a city street. Then, the realization hit me: I wasn't doing it right. I can't just present these ideas like that. I had to come up with a plan to dial down the strong words and just live my life according to the philosophy. I just had to show the virtues and values established by this way of thinking through my actions.

I'm also letting go of the idea that this is just a passing phase that will eventually disappear. This has happened many times. For example, the creator of the TV show *Billions* once said the philosophy wasn't "fair, or possible or nice." I send that statement to the deepest pit of hell that believers claim is real. To turn your back on the light that showed you the way, to abandon the principles that guided you, that is a true sadness, a real shame. I'm letting go of any thought that I might ever want to leave this bright and clear understanding of existence and my place in it.

It's a repeated theme in the big book that this philosophy is based on. The world's top business leaders feel drained by their companies. They are approached one by one by a mysterious figure who shows them a way out of the meanness and small-mindedness of a world that wants their products and services but despises how they got them. These leaders just shrugged. They made it so they couldn't be burdened by unfair and untrue accusations of corruption and self-centeredness. Instead, they experienced the power of their good qualities and kept them from people who reached out and yearned but never acknowledged their own "selfishness."

I'm letting go of the idea that looking out for yourself is a bad thing and that helping others at your own expense is good. This is the main sticking point for the world today. In another novel within this philosophy's writings, the main character says that "the world is perishing from an orgy of self-sacrifice." This means that people spread the idea of giving up yourself to care for even your worst enemy's children. It's a harmful force that has wrapped around people's minds for thousands of years. I completely reject any ideas about the evils of being self-focused or not being "unselfish." I know that's a bold and rebellious statement. I don't care. I've stopped holding back when I have enough space to write my resignation letter to any thinking person.

From the perspective of someone who has been involved with this philosophy for nearly two decades, I have to say that "walking away" from everything I was taught from childhood to adulthood was absolutely worth the journey. I've stumbled, stammered, and fallen flat on my face. Yet, my confidence and determination kept me going on this path of self-discovery, self-improvement, and self-respect. It's because I am resigning, quitting, and giving up on old ways of thinking that I can see with a clarity that some people never experience in their entire lives. I'm not "blessed" like some spiritual mystics say, nor "lucky" like some who focus on physical strength might claim. I am fortunate that in my youth, I discovered something as pure and revolutionary as this philosophy.

I proudly offer this writing as an example of what it means to anyone who cares about ideas and Western civilization. If humanity is to be saved from the messy situation it's in, this philosophy is a bright light in a wasteland that can get rid of all the fears and doubts of those who criticize it. The very people who say nasty and angry things about this philosophy are the ones who need it most. And for those who have never encountered it, it's time they learn about it and get to know each of the ideas it contains.

Disclaimer

This content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model. While we strive for accuracy and quality, please note that the information provided may not be entirely error-free or up-to-date. We recommend independently verifying the content and consulting with professionals for specific advice or information. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the use or interpretation of this content.