The Tragic Optimist's Guide to Surviving Capitalistic Nihilism

[@LighthouseJaye]

31:39 "Pain is inevitable, misery's a choice" - Daniel Caesar

[@NI4NI-y5f]

This ASSUMES, of course, that you HAVE "choice". You'll need to PROVE that because claims simply are not enough.

[@chrisrozema1599]

Except for those born with chemical imbalances in the brain. Schizophrenia, Depression, Bipolar Dosorder... until medicine came along, there was no choice. People suffering these conditions cannot simply "stop it" or choose not to have these mental illnesses. We can choose to take our meds, but that isn't as simple as "take the pills, follow your therapists' advice." You are constantly reminded that any one of any of your medicines might suddenly up and quit working and to figure out which, adjust all your new meds to work correctly with each other takes weeks or months each time. We are, throughout our lives, consistently confronted with the accusation that we refuse to choose hapoiness by people who mistake our actions as the result of nihilism. An dto top it off, only the lucky few of us have access to the healthcare required to get those meds. This is not meant as an attack on your philosophy. More power to you! But just a reminder that some of us don't have a choice.

[@gavinmckee9211]

@@LighthouseJaye Buddha

[@scottevans1096]

This is the quote I came to share as well!

[@Evgeniya6661]

You are on the good side of algorithms

[@seanomaille8157]

Great talk. I too have done Vipassana retreats. But..., I can't help thinking, Viktor Frankel was freed by the barrel of a gun. Slavery ended at the barrel of a gun. I'm not sure that the "Dark Enlightenment" (look it up), that is now enveloping America, and eventually us all, is going to go quietly. Call it "fighting-optimism", i.e. optimism that's well armed. I want to be wrong, and would love to hear counter arguments.

[@MarriedToTheRevolution]

Yes! I sent my bro this video and he was shocked because he had just sent it to our parents!

[@aesop1451]

Ms. Sade's description of "tragic optimism" is very similar to existentialism. The most famous existentialist is Friedrich Nietzsche and he passed away in 1900. When he passed away the Second Industrial Revolution was already underway (1870-1914). Personally I think we need to stop focusing on how we feel and take a broad look. The technocapitalist system is enforced by state governments using the military and law enforcement. It doesn't care that you like going on hikes and pumpkin spice lattes. It doesn't care that you're poor or that you don't want to go to work today. This is what Kyle Reese says about the Terminator: “It can't be bargained with, it can't be reasoned with. It doesn't feel pity! Or remorse or fear and it absolutely will not stop!... ever... until you are d3ad!” This is why they're developing technologies like Neuralink, designer babies, and AGI. These people don't believe in God. They believe in merging with the machine. All the worker bees are like cattle to them. This system was not created with humans in mind. The Matrix is another franchise like the Terminator. Maybe Neo should've read some self-help books to cope with the reality of the Matrix instead of running away with Morpheus and Trinity.

[@NI4NI-y5f]

in and of themselves, they can be neither 'good' nor 'bad'

[@VeganSemihCyprus33]

The Connections (2021) [short documentary] ❤🎉❤

[@jenniferfowler682]

Excellent video - I’m thrilled to have found you 😊 as a former healthcare provider in an ICU I remember the day that I lost full faith in the “american dream” we had admitted an older man who was burned by a group of teenagers while trying to find food in a dumpster and needed burn care and an arm amputated. He clearly had been thru the ringer (homeless, actively psychotic, terrified) the first question that was asked of this man while he was shaking, crying, being forced to sit on the bed by phoenix police (he was the victim mind you) was “do you have insurance?” I could hear what was happening in the room over and as a psychologist was concerned because I heard crying. When he said no, my colleague sighed - walked out. Here we had another human who was just harmed violently by another group of humans for simply being hungry and in a dumpster because we humans have left a huge portion of other humans outside without access to food, water, bathrooms and beds. And a government-paid group of workers are holding down this human and another human who is meant to be a helper, is not asking how this human is doing and how can we serve him. We are asking this human how are you gonna pay? How do you plan to pay us after this inhuman act was done to you? I think about him nearly every other day and why have we allowed every aspect of living become this transactional bullshit. We see what’s happened in Gaza. Sudan. Haiti. Lebanon. Humans bombing other humans. For land. Killing them for the acquisition of land. It’s all Transactional.

[@craffte]

This comment sent me. It absolutely resonates with me as I worked in a hospital, if you can call it that, and saw so much that I cannot unsee. AN example, Monday morning, A nurse came in still doped up on party drugs from the weekend that she could not administer a hypo to an infant. An INFANT. So she asked one of the girls from the fish bowl to do it. A twenty something year old who answers phones. That’s who did it. When I went (as a patient to another hospital) to get emergency dental, I waited in the hallway sitting on a gurney. The staff had used a curtain to create “rooms” (again- in the hallway) and I saw through the gap in the curtain a woman who was in hysterics trying to be calm but crying her eyes out telling her husband, “Please don’t die, hang in there, please don’t die.” This was literally end of life happening right in front of me and all these people just rushing past….. I will never forget that lady and her husband. Like I said I worked in a hospital and have seen and heard some heinous things, but that summed it all up for me. I don’t think I will ever return to health care. I talk about it, but I know I won’t. People ALLOW this to happen. We as citizens, allow this to happen. We need action. Liking and subscribing does nothing. We need action. No offense to Sade but Do I have hope that these newer generations will do anything other than make videos? When being famous for spittin facts becomes less important than acheiving real change, maybe. I’m not holding my breath. Easier to spill tea. For now.

[@DaughterofDiogenes]

@@jenniferfowler682 this story reminds me of why I had to leave teaching. I think we as a society have lost sight of the prize. Too many people let capitalists who want to drain away every cent they have tell them how to be human and we are all suffering as a result.

[@jenniferfowler682]

@@DaughterofDiogenes exactly - I always remind myself “corporations aren’t people” so I buck the system as often as possible to keep humanity at the forefront of my mind. If someone looks beat down and exhausted working at a fast food place you better believe I’m making sure I know their name because rather than praise the establishment , I’m gonna praise the hell out of them and make it known on Google, yelp, anywhere so that they *hopefully* get some sort of boost from those overlords they have to work for. Sometimes the smallest thing can at least alleviate a second of suffering people go thru every day.

[@madamcjwalker67]

I agree it’s heartbreaking and I don’t wanna be here anymore even tho I was born & raised here. Been here all my life witnessing the madness. And just seeing lots of ppl act like the inequality is ok. I’m omw 2b an expat. Pray for all of us to do better & be better.

[@DaughterofDiogenes]

@ yes!!! This is why I go around giving compliments like it’s my job. It really takes nothing to do and the I learned along time ago that the more you look to give compliments, the more beauty you notice. And then you can help other people notice it too. And just this weekend I ran half a block to help a lady I saw drop a box full of clown noses 😂. It was totally worth it too cuz once I got to her and started helping her, then all these Tiger people came over to help, including kids. And I was like…this right here is humanity. This is what we are here for. For one another always. It was so beautiful. And I got to pet a horse too.

[@Heykay34]

I ended my journal with, “my sadness is not me, but a product of my society and environment” and I decided to watch this video. I’m tired of the sadness. Thank you for this video.

[@mementomori560]

@@Heykay34 I like that saying. I’m tired of it too. It’s a very difficult mindset to break free from, especially when it’s comfortable and familiar. And it’s incredibly easy to get sucked back into. However I have nothing to lose from maintaining the fight against it and I must keep trying.

[@amberinthemist7912]

My favorite Baldwin quote "when you live in the shadow of the valley of death it affords you a certain type of freedom". He was a true philosopher.

[@DasiaDoesIt]

@@amberinthemist7912 🤌🏾😮‍💨 truly.

[@tommywalker1631]

I love your insight I learned from you a few things.The community lawn mower analogy.The second was the "who do we bomb next documentary".I'd pose this question which I have a Dilemma about Billionaires. Most employ tens of thousands of employees, and have obligations to customers and share holders.Is there a middle ground?

[@KamauMshale]

@@amberinthemist7912 very dope quote

[@FTYC2022]

Can you explain the quote? I would like to understand it.

[@altoXechelon]

@@FTYC2022 “when you’re about to die, you stop giving af”

[@ari7610]

The Buddhists are the OG tragic optimists and they’ve been doing it for 2,500 years. Resilience, acceptance, impermanence, higher purpose, and lovingkindness are all Buddhism 101.

[@transsexual_computer_faery]

the fundamental principle of buddhism is "no purpose"

[@Beetoe]

@@ari7610 I was thinking the same thing, I think I’ve been somehow TO for a few years thanks to meditation, in my case zen meditation, but I’m pretty sure it applies to many other forms of practice. Edit: fantastic video btw!

[@youtubeblockedme5864]

But would you want to live in a Buddhist dominated community?? They never seem appealing....as in providing decent living conditions. I guess I'm focused on India but there are many other countries.

[@davistimora777]

@@youtubeblockedme5864 India majority is Hindus

[@cupofkoa]

Was just about to say the same thing about the buddha dharma

[@lukegiduz]

Sharing some positivity: I’m 30 years old and financially struggling. Got laid off recently from my career job that I went to a 4 year university for and now my field is being automated so I can’t get another job without a drastic change or more school. I feel hopeless about ever owning a home or starting a family. But I’ve invested in my community and started a volunteer group that’s building a free public skatepark. We have volunteer build days where we get together and do construction, and we skate together and hang out at the spot all the time. It’s like a little oasis in a society that’s nearly impossible to get ahead in. I have created something that’s bringing people together and giving them purpose and community. It’s the proudest I’ve ever been of anything, career accomplishments included. I hope everyone who is feeling lost and destitute finds a little sliver of purity and purpose like I have, it’s empowering and makes me feel like not all hope is lost. Much love and thanks for the video

[@50Nobody50]

I made a decent living, had a great house and family. It ground me down though, and at fifty know beyond any doubt that my life is much happier without participating in that race. Money got me things, also fueled my divorce. After covid burnout I spent a year and a half just readjusting my head, living off of a 401k. I came out the other side with so much less stress, and in the interim I learned to live really cheap to stretch that time off out all I could. I ended up doing home health work, which doesn't pay near what my career did, but its rewarding and the odd hours fit my day to day life. If you found your oasis at thirty, you'll be fine. The most important thing is going a bit zen monk on not being such a consumer, needing less, and the money thing sorts itself out.

[@Blah4444]

I love this.

[@goober479]

I feel this. Such a similar situation to you and I joined a writing club an wrote my first ever first draft in a month which I've never been able to do. There is so much meaning outside the "daily grind" and the expectations of family, income and situation that is placed on you. Congrats.

[@HighVybeTribe]

Thats awesome about the community skate park !!! Yes , as humans we definitely have a need to have purpose in this lifetime 🙏

[@micgarn3331]

❤ love to hear

[@abrinael]

The first ad on opening this: "There's really no better time than now to bring your productivity to the next level."

[@AfroGothixa]

@@abrinael the emoji LMFAO

[@Fuzzy_Slippers111]

Such a cute emoji

[@annnee6818]

The irony😂

[@kailahmarie5657]

Lol, mine was ad for betterhelp

[@judvaughn19]

I am a 75 year old White guy who enjoyed this video. It gave me a new way of viewing a younger person's outlook on how this world appears to them. It is clear to me that my New Deal/Boomer framework no longer matches Millennial thought. I have grown children and we talk, but Sade's presentation gave me a clearer understanding of the situation. Great work.

[@transcendcapitalism]

how would you describe the new deal/boomer framework that you had learned? american dream, etc.?

[@kailahmarie5657]

❤

[@fredkrissman6527]

70 yrs young here,@@transcendcapitalism... For me, it boiled down to the very core belief that "If I work hard, and play by the rules, I will achieve success AND happiness. Kind of a secular religious belief.

[@YouGotOptions2]

This is a great comment.

[@davidnotshawty]

As an 18-year-old Black boy in America, I really needed to hear this. Watching my close family and friends be consumed by individualism in our capitalistic society is absolutely soul-crushing. I started crying around the 50:30 mark because I have little hope that my parents will ever realize it's not about the things they own or the accolades they’ve achieved in their professional careers. What matters most are the little things-like taking me to the park when I was younger or having genuine conversations that aren’t focused on school. They’re always pushing me to pursue a STEM degree because it pays well and I’ve always done well in school. It’s so triggering because I’ve always wanted to do something creative and meaningful, like becoming a teacher. But in their eyes, if there’s no way to make money, there’s no point. It’s isolating carving my own path in a capitalistic system, and I often feel lost and alone. It's so messed up what poverty does to African Americans here and I know it's a trauma response of what they've been through in the 80s and 90s. I just try to give grace and empathy on my way to breaking generational trauma. Moving out for college has given me the space to self-actualize and take control of my reality. I’ve been working on getting deeper into my spirituality and mindfulness, and exploring tragic optimism is something I’m really looking forward to. Seeing you gave me hope and the visibility that someone like me exists-that love exists. I’ll keep being mindful, leaning into the absurdity and impermanence of life, learning from my mistakes, and reading a lot more James Baldwin. I feel so blessed to live in a time where I can experience your existence, Daisa. Please keep making art and spreading light. ❤

[@andreapoulieva6717]

Thank you for sharing and being so vulnerable. Being 18 is scary but I would urge you to forge your own path and live for you, not in an individualistic way, but doing what you want instead of what your parents project on you (with love, I'm sure, but nonetheless). If you go into a career you have no passion or drive for, you will wake up in 20 years and you'll want a redo. So just do the thing now. I'm sure you'll find community and support along the way. Godspeed ❤

[@bcarter-xx4gb]

@@davidnotshawty This is poetic. I hope you don’t stop sharing your light and trying to carve your own path. It’s challenging trying to do this as a young person today-I also know from experience. Wishing you all the strength and wisdom you’re already cultivating. ❤️

[@Geini0]

@@davidnotshawty so wise for someone so young! Here’s to living a life worth living! 🎉🌍🌳🌞🌕🌊🗻

[@tigerstripepudding]

I wish you the absolute best; you’re on an amazing path already🎊🌸

[@samanthamonroe3826]

your so wise at 18 and i hope you will continue to pave your own way yea it’s hard when you feel like you’re the only one but know there are many others out there who feel the same don’t EVER live for anyone else this is your life don’t regret it wishing you all the best luck support and happiness along the way ❤❤

[@space_1073]

You have to find meaning in creating, not consuming. Doing things to make ends meet is inescapable, but striving to make art is the only thing keeping me sane and genuinely happy.

[@soulfulgardener]

Same here, learning to be a documentary filmmaker right now, sharing with others what it’s meant for me to leave as much of the system behind as possible and homestead in the mountains💚

[@fast.jortimer]

I need to figure out how to embrace this because I like being creative but the thought of people consuming my art sickens and disgusts me I hate the audience 😅

[@scb-z9u]

I needed this comment today

[@matthewmorris-sp1xd]

This is why I play music. A beginner instrument, even when you look at something as complicated as a hurdy gurdy (which I'm saving for now), can cost as little as $500. Not exactly cheap, but achievable with just a little saving by more people than one might think.

[@OstaniaWhestalis]

@@space_1073 actually it was proven that people that make something themselves are much satisfied with life , like making your own bread , sewing your clothes , crocheting, painting.a hobby is what we all need

[@flipout_121]

You guys ever just sit in the parking lot at a store somewhere and just watch the wind blowing through the trees while listening to your favorite song? Maybe get a cheap soda or something and just enjoy a little slice of nature for a bit? That's the type of stuff that keeps me sane 😂

[@jsmilz86]

@flipout_121 everyday other day.

[@fgonzalez78959]

@@flipout_121 I like to park under a tree at the mall and let my wife go get what she needs sometimes..while eating McDonald's takes me back as a kid when we would park at the park and eat and go play..

[@captainadele]

Right now living under a tree in a parking lot enjoying the early morning sunshine through the window of my ancient RV.

[@Michael0663-qo4wx]

You can do more than just sit in a parking lot watching the wind blow to enjoy nature. Get off your lazy butt and go for a hike in the woods someday.

[@noellethehuman]

I used to do that when I lived places that I dreaded going home to. I would spend hours in my car, watching KZbin videos of people that gave me hope and listening to music that feeds my soul - sometimes I would stay the night in my car then go home before sunrise. It got me through some dark times. Now I have chickens, a dog and a huge garden to pre-occupy my time as well as my mind. And a life partner who values both bonding time & alone time! I'm so fortunate to be navigating these dark times with somebody that I love and trust. I hope you never stop finding new ways to give your brain and soul a break

[@uphillracer]

I feel you. Here in Germany a very similar thing is going on. People are burnt out, you can feel it in the interactions in the supermarket, in traffic, just everywhere: people are constantly on edge, waiting for a reason to lash out.

[@kailahmarie5657]

America here...people have been definitely acting more violent even over little things. I think it's occurring in a lot of the major countries

[@no-gc1mp]

I thought Germany would be closer to salvation and now I'm scared that it's going to get as bad as the US now 😢

[@saraesmoon]

Sis, wtf! What a BEAUTIFUL video essay.

[@DasiaDoesIt]

Eeeek!!! Thank youu!!!❤🎉

[@FGC-ku4ez]

@@saraesmoon I just found this channel, and WOW! I'll be binge watching your videos for days!

[@fast.jortimer]

what a beautiful essayist 😳

[@LG-nn4tr]

💯 💯 💯

[@cocoac]

@@saraesmoon this! My exact thoughts! 🔥

[@td-vu6bi]

I was beginning to think I was crazy and alone. Thank you.

[@439801RS]

With billions of fellow humans, you're hardly ever the only one

[@CaraRowen]

sounds like a good time to have a night with your besties. not anything crazy, just good people and good laughs. you got this.

[@439801RS]

@@CaraRowen bold of you to assume people have friends, let alone besties

[@hiddenechoes]

Same 💜, everything feels so isolating right now. Perfect timing, finding this video.

[@trevawhitmoyer682]

@@td-vu6bi You are not alone ❤️

[@rdkap42]

My brother died shortly after I had one of the best days I ever had with him and your roller skating to losing him story deeply moved me, and I noticed when you were telling that difficult memory, your cat was very close to you. You have a good cat.

[@cmst6408]

❤❤ I don't know right words but thank you and am sorry

[@justadude117X]

capitalism benefits when you believe theres nothing you can do to change it. we MUST remain steadfast and maintain revolutionary optimism no matter how bleak things may seem. Revolutionary change is possible and arguably inevitable, likely in our lifetimes if not our childrens.

[@qncyisdead]

this is one of the many times someone with a master chief profile picture said the absolute hardest shit ever

[@Ithel-gd7ex]

Said every revolutionary ever. Trade one bad situation for another and the self righteous numbnuts feel proud

[@dopaminey9946]

That is the greatest fear of Ruling Class. Michael Parenti states that we believe that rulers just never think about us; no, he says, that is all they will think about. But find various ways to keep reality secret so we don't see the rulers control and get rid of their rule.

[@McQueenGunn]

​@@dopaminey9946 whoa

[@cmst6408]

Indeed “Another world is not only possible, she is on her way. On a quiet day, I can hear her breathing.” - Arundhati Roy

[@Justicehillmusic]

Glad the algorithm brought me here

[@rahbeeuh]

@@Justicehillmusic same here

[@dopaminey9946]

Me too Her voice is nice

[@PrettyPrincess9609]

I definitely needed to see this as a 28 year old black woman who is suffering from burn out, anxiety, depression, and also chest pains that came from stress. I just paid off my last hospital bill from over 2 years ago and every single day I feel empty inside. I feel numb and I’m no longer happy. I do have a fiance’, some good family members ( most of my family is toxic), and two good friends. I have been struggling with burn out and past trauma. I experienced abuse from mother, was touched by her ex boyfriend, was bullied for years by kids in school, experienced racism and colorism on multiple occasions, I was also bullied and harassed at my previous job, and I was SA’d twice by an ex friend. I’m in therapy but it’s a long healing process. Honestly trying to heal from my past trauma while battling burn out from my job has been hard. I’m also getting married next year so yeah dealing with that pressure as well. I sometimes feel trapped in a box and I can’t get out.

[@sastarealmondo]

You've been through so much. Truly wishing you healing and peace x

[@thatblerdoverthereb9654]

I'm literally crying watching this. I've been struggling. My main negative thoughts is thinking too many people are ignorant. I don't mean it in im better than way, but I seek out information, empathic voices, people that want everyone to live well. I'm around people all the time, and literally touch grass, grounding and nature walks, getting out and helping my community. I've always been able to "put myself in someones shoes", if you're in survival mode how can you spend precious time to change your own mind. Idk, sometimes it feels more hopeless doing everything you've talked about and being around people oppose your views of basic humanity.

[@OhAwe]

I don't think pointing out that people are ignorant about something is a problem. We all have blind spots. As you mention, it's really difficult to consider others when you're in survival mode and that a lot of people are basically right there. Like it's not their fault they haven't the energy to learn. I definitely get that it can get you down to hear people being so derisive all the time. I really think we can and do make a difference though. Just people knowing that others don't subscribe to the capitalistic exploitative mindset is in itself validating.

[@alliebullock7973]

@@thatblerdoverthereb9654 This is exactly how i feel omg

[@codyramseur]

You’re not alone

[@feliciacsmith1]

I cried, too. It’s such a relief to finally hear someone who makes sense - like everything she said resonated with me.

[@nevergiveup1533]

@@thatblerdoverthereb9654 you are not alone, I am here with you .

[@MISTERKIC]

"To be "Woke" means to be Aware." Former Radio & Club DJ here. This is on repeat for ME, all weekend, cutting this up back and forth on my 1200's. Juggling, blending, and mixing to perfection. Thank you. Game On, and I'm ONLY 20 minutes in. Thank you.

[@michael-ph3jn]

They stole it from Flat Earth channel ODDtv in 2016 he called those half awake Diet Woke.

[@Alyseb-l6n]

@@MISTERKIC THANK YOU!!! I was just telling someone this last night. I think the conservative version of “woke” means radical. 🤦🏽‍♀️

[@DaughterofDiogenes]

@@Alyseb-l6n and I believe the right did this intentionally. If you follow their history, they use nazi propaganda very, very well. Those that formerly ran the party were highly educated people and k ow exactly what they are doing. They’ve read all that political philosophy, natural law theory. Probably the Art of War and we know many of them love Ayn Rand. They k ow exactly what they are doing. They keep taking our words and bastardizing them. They put a taint on them as a means to break apart any solidarity we may have. There is no way to stop us from all waking up in this Information Age, so what better way to head it off than by making the very word that describes the inevitable response to unfettered US style capitalism the most racialized and toxic word. They know they need an outsider group. That is why they will always be the party of identity politics. They need to break people into groups and then tell one group they are better than the other. It’s the only way they can keep power. And they know racial solidarity is strong in white people because there is this deep seated fear in all of their psyche, that if nonwhite people were ever to gain power, they would do to whites what whites have done to everyone else. Because they cannot conceive of a world in which the a few super wealthy players live well at the expense of many. I don’t even believe that embarrassed millionaire story they try to sell. That it’s really them thinking they might be rich some day. No that’s ain’t it. It’s them fearing the loss of power. Fearing being seen as second class. But the jokes on them because they are already seen as lower class. The only hope we have as a nation is if those folks would open their eyes and see who is really standing on their coat tails.

[@brianarbenz1329]

The left started criticizing superficial wokeness, which KZbinr T1J called “Performative Wokeness.” The right stole the identity of that criticism, just like they did Phil Ochs’ song, “Love Me, I’m a Liberal.” The song was a left radical’s criticism of the centrism of U.S. liberalism in the early’60s. But right wing bigots have been singing parts of it out of context for 60 years to falsify the song’s purpose.

[@naturallaw1733]

the True meaning of Woke is to be in Higher Consciousness... Sadly, most of Society today is at Low to Mid-level at best Consciousness. that's how they are able to manipulate that word (Woke) in Culture today because IRONICALLY, Most people are Asleep so they don't really give it much thought about the True meaning of that word.😵 and yep, Capitalism is a big part of that.

[@ricardorodriguez5549]

For me, when I read Camus’ line “we must imagine Sisyphus happy,” it flipped my world over. With that reflection, we gain agency in an absurd world. Thank you for this today

[@jimryan8865]

Couldn't have said it better! "In a society that both isolates people and prizes individual success above all else, its no surprise that some individuals lash out in violent ways. feeling as though they have no way to assert their existence or validate their pain."

[@HighVybeTribe]

And crime , drug addiction too

[@2samarie2]

U know a vid good when u start it on yo phone and finish it on the tv !

[@DasiaDoesIt]

Im honored.

[@saraesmoon]

Big facts

[@Arielannee]

@@2samarie2 literally !

[@2stout2shako2d6]

lmao just did the same thing

[@samuelgiraudo8748]

Woah, I thought it was just me 😆 started with it in the background while I gamed. Swapped to the tv so I could properly focus

[@denisemoreau3429]

I had no idea I was practicing tragic optimism. My mother died in my home last year - I found her. I lost my three dogs within three months this year. Loss is inevitable, I know, and it's hard. But I treasure the specks of time I have with my sister and friends. It's not easy, but that's reality. Thank you so much for this essay. 🎉❤

[@cherrybomb2600]

I'm so sorry, please accept my condolences. Love to you💖

[@èè-fày-chóó-qóó]

i'm still hereeeee!!!! i'm having a spiritual experienceeeee! "the problem isn't that you're not doing enough, it's that the goalpost keeps SHIFTING" talk about a SCAM my godddddd

[@RLWarrior]

I love the scam. If I made it to the end zone what would I do? Get set up for defense? I get to keep experiencing (good/bad) and learning. If I did it all and knew it all what would be the point? Endless chill? I’ll save that for when I’m in the dirt.

[@codyramseur]

@@RLWarrior see the world, seek personal fulfillment, binge good cinema, appreciate high art, make art, participate in rigorous debate, help someone. Like that is the problem. You have been conditioned to think that there is nothing for you to do but chase that carrot.

[@RLWarrior]

@@codyramseur I haven’t seen the world. I love art. I haven’t come across to many rigorous debaters. I love my life and all the struggle and triumph and loss. I think you’ve been conditioned to believe that you need to wallow and get others to wallow. I lived there for a long time, not going back. I don’t need to solve the malaise. I watched a really wonderful video on capitalism and finding meaning I would suggest it but I don’t remember the titile. I hope you find hope. (I was anti-hope at one point too)

[@sastarealmondo]

Yep

[@ellairax]

One of the most rewarding things I’ve done this year is helped my friend get out of an abusive job. Her parents (like mine) are blue collar workers, so navigating the business world isn’t really natural to us. I’ve spent hours with her helping her apply for jobs and prepare for interviews. Which isn’t something she asked me to do, but something I offered. You can hundreds of dollars to get that kind of training, but that’s not really accessible to people like us. She has a second round interview this week where they are asking her to do a presentation and then an hour long interview where she can ask questions about the job and things like that. I’m so happy for her! Being able to rely on a community doesn’t just save money, but it lifts everyone up. It’s not about tallying favors and optimizing your network. It’s about caring for other people even when it’s not financially profitable for you.

[@clairejohnson7809]

Are these multi round interviews common in the US? They sound utterly terrifying.

[@OneTheBlue]

I hope it is a very lucrative job to justify that much fuss.

[@happyme9010]

I’ve done so many presentations and got told I’ve got the job for them to turn round and give it to someone else who has connections. Or just jobs that they already knew were filled but they legally had to advertise. At one they were even trying to steal my data from my phd and pressuring me to reveal my unpublished targets and sat there writing them down. It’s self serving for the companies. I’ve heard of people in the companies even using people’s presentations for their own work in the companies. I don’t think I’d apply for another job that requires a presentation.

[@YouAreDreamingRightNow]

@@clairejohnson7809 very common. unfortunately.

[@kailahmarie5657]

​@clairejohnson7809 Usually, they are for bigger corporation jobs

[@deanbilly9073]

You've changed a lot of people's lives with this video, me included. Not to echo some other comments I've been reading, but as a recently turned 20-year-old black woman who is about to graduate, I have been feeling so lost and alone. Especially after the election and also realising that g-cide hasn't stopped happening to black and brown people across the world, we've just found more elaborate ways to justify it. Capitalism seems to be in every breath I take, and despite being in one of the most "intellectual" universities in the world, I feel so emotionally and intellectually alone as the rest of my rich yt peers focus on jumping into the job market and making more big bucks for big business. But this video has reminded me of why I placed myself there. To help my community. I've been listening to this one song all day and I believe it's no coincidence that I watched your essay today as well. The song is Bryson Tiller - Keep Doing What You're Doing. I thought it was for me, but it's for you as well. Keep up this work, you have a gift.

[@sina8883]

Wow! Buddhism, Greco-Roman stoicism, Existentialism, absurdism, Victor Frankl, Rick and Morty, etc, etc…. All rolled into one giant thoughtful recipe for understanding and dealing with life. Fascinating talk, and therapeutic! I just felt like I had a very enlightening conversation with a friend over afternoon tea.Thank you!

[@Sway787]

I love it here. 🥰🥰🥰 this is like the full opposite to the red pill toxic content and ironically would help my brothers so much more. I wish more of us would finally start taking back our purpose from the patriarchy and late stage hyper individualistic capitalism that literal thrives by consuming us. Thank you for this wonderful conversation.

[@bluffermuffin1]

I wish that everything that I see on KZbin could be as honest and refreshing and optimistic without being unrealistic as this is. Breath of fresh air. Balanced. Intelligent. Grounded. Thank you.

[@Liyay]

54:54 Started crying thinking of my little moments like that. 57:05 Yep the tears are here in full force especially with a clip from EEAAO (that movie is amazing). This video was a NEED I’m so glad I watched it, here’s a new sub. I’m 21 and being a new adult I recently realized just how much capitalism is embedded into EVERYTHING and is in American society/culture. Once you see it, you can never unsee it (ignorance can be bliss at times). It’s everywhere you look all for the profit. Even the holidays are a way just to boost profits. Realizing this and everything else you said in the video makes life feel pointless and depressing (I’ve been feeling this way for the last months :( ). I do want to pursue what fulfills me, but I need money to survive so I can’t. I have to find a job in the meantime I don’t like, then I end up in this dreadful hamster wheel where I am just a cog working. I’ve stopped doing things I even enjoyed and lost my hobbies. Most of our weeks and days are spent working leaving no time for connection and to socialize. Leaving us so burnt out and trying to fill the void/free time with consumption (shopping, entertainment, pleasure). Hearing your own experience of joy and pain was emotional and an eye opener. I definitely am going to look more into tragic optimism and the people you referenced. Thank you for bringing a fresh perspective about this and being specific especially how it roots to capitalism. Thank you for sharing your learned experience of pain and joy because you have reached me and impacted my life. Other content I see are the same points repackaged into a “new” video. I actually learned something I didn’t know before and want to look into this more. To sum it all up; Thank you for deciding to post Dasia. Yes, I am starting that project. I will cherish the people I have in my life now even more. I want to feel all the ugly and beautiful things this chaotic human experience offers for our 8 seconds that we are here. I am so glad I am alive at the same time as you 🤎@DasiaDoesIt .

[@DasiaDoesIt]

@liyay! Your words deeply touched me. Thank you for sharing such a vulnerable and heartfelt reflection-I can feel the weight of what you’re carrying, and I want you to know that you’re not alone in feeling this way. That realization of how deeply capitalism weaves into every facet of life is jarring and often painful, especially when it feels like it robs us of joy, time, and connection. It can make the world seem cold and mechanical. I want to affirm that what you’re experiencing is valid-grieving the loss of freedom to just *_be_* while navigating survival is a struggle so many of us face but rarely articulate so beautifully. The fact that you’re aware of this and thinking critically about your life path at 21 is mindblowing to me and shows how deeply you care about living authentically, even in a system that often pushes us to conform and consume. That’s a strength, even if it feels like a burden at times. I promise you. Pursuing what fulfills you while balancing survival is such a delicate dance. But even within the hamster wheel, I hope you can find small moments of resistance-whether it’s reclaiming a hobby, reconnecting with yourself or loved ones, or simply allowing yourself to *feel*. These small acts of defiance against burnout and disconnection are powerful, and they matter. Your decision to cherish the people in your life and embrace the full spectrum of emotions is an act of courage and optimism, even in the face of despair. Thank you for being open to exploring concepts like tragic optimism-it’s a perspective that has brought me peace and resilience in ways I can’t fully put into words. Life can and will be heavy, but it can also be beautifully profound, even in its chaos. I am so grateful to have crossed paths with you in this way, and I’m honored that my work could offer you a fresh perspective and some comfort. You inspire me to keep creating. Please remember that your life is inherently valuable, even outside of what you produce or achieve. You’re doing the best you can in a system that often feels stacked against us, and that’s enough. Keep finding your moments of joy and connection, no matter how small, and know that your existence truly matters. Sending you so much love and solidarity-thank you for being here, too.

[@vengefulemo]

@@Liyay yo articulation resonates so much with me. i find myself so far removed from what brought me joy in the past, forced to endlessly & teeth clenchingly claw for capital just to survive, and my strength has been wavering. i can’t een remember what it feels like to enjoy my past outlets. but my goodness did u instill some faith in me, een if it’s just slightly. faith to engage in what matters to me, and faith to re-invigorate myself with the passion my younger self so easily pursued. and for that i honest to god thank you. i feel so seen right now in my exhausted of moments.

[@melanie_creates]

The internet sometimes gives me gems of hope that I never expected. I work a physical labor job and I broke my ankle a week before the election. I’d like to think of myself as an optimist, but I had a relapse, my emotional state has been hard to manage, and I’ve been scared. It’s been a dark six weeks. I’ve had to reevaluate much of my life, and after this essay, I feel comforted and hopeful. Thank you ❤

[@deidrajohnson2143]

It’s such a delicate balance isn’t it? So much of my awakening as a human have been little gifts from people all over the world I wouldn’t have had access to if we didn’t have this dangerously complicated web of access. I’m so grateful for how these brilliant creators gift us with interpretations of their life’s work and put so much effort into producing quality content that helps us to understand ourselves.

[@VizzyInks]

I realized how bad my head was when I became phisically disabled and started fantasizing of being abused by capitalism like I was once before. Jealous of people being eaten alive by the system, because at least they had a chance to survive on their own. I'm terrified of having to rely on others on a highly individualistic society. And I have no choice. Seeing that others care, and that videos like these are being made makes me hopeful.

[@el_coaster]

when i was 16, i found out my old school had an active shooter situation. i found out through snapchat 500 miles away that 2 people i knew had passed and my hometown would never be the same. the 3 year anniversary of this just passed. i go through bouts of sitting with how senseless the loss was, especially after this election and knowing there’s people who just cannot be moved to care. but since the election i have made moves to show as much love, grace, and kindness for the people i’m surrounded by. i’m studying to be a teacher (despite how scary it is right now) in hopes of multiplying this love forever. i really have found that it is community and radical love/care that will get us through. again, thanks so much for this; your vulnerability and your intelligence.

[@andreapoulieva6717]

@@el_coaster I'm so sorry for what you went through. But reading that you will become a teacher feels healing, even from my perspective. I wish you nothing but the best ❤️

[@ADAJ3KINGANGEL]

The idea of there being no inherent meaning to life can be scary, until you think of the power we have because we can create our own meaning to life. As a non skater, I appreciate your channel’s recent content.

[@DasiaDoesIt]

You called it perfectly. scary and freeing at the exact same time. Thank you for being here.🫶🏾

[@MarkPTP7000]

It's the difference between having a blank piece of paper versus a form you need to fill out. The form gives you a structure but the blank piece of paper has a far wider range of possibilities.

[@yoonahkang7384]

that only works if you live out of the system. If you are in the system it's pretty difficult to create meaning when you work 24/7 and when not, you are shopping with the little money you gain.

[@JackDanielsDayLewis]

Sounds like the Absurdist philosophy. Albert Camus it was I believe.

[@DasiaDoesIt]

@ definitely a lot of absurdism weaved in.

[@Pro-gressive]

I needed to hear this. Such a thoughtful and heartfelt video. Thank you.

[@ipeefreely9865]

This is an excellent, excellent, thoughtful video!! It's wild how many regular, working class people go hella hard in the paint for the wealthy elite class. Statistically were highly unlikely to out earn the socioeconomic class of our family. Also, social capital is something else that well to do and the wealthy elite class use to propel their "success." I've worked most of my career advocating for the most vulnerable and underresourced people. So many working class people vilify those who experience homelessness or extreme abject poverty not realizing that most people are a paycheck or an illness away from housing instability. 😔😔

[@JackDanielsDayLewis]

We have to keep teaching class conciousness

[@ppss.6302]

Republicans get the working class and capitalize handsomely on understanding human nature, and you don't.

[@m.talley1660]

@@ppss.6302 who is this comment pointed at? I see tacit class awareness on both sides of the party divide in this country. I'm living insecurely sidelined with severe injuries and aware I've lived some of the worse of life's outcomes. Easy to get why the algorithm connected me to this youtube channel. I've watched a right-wing Christian sister of mine (who turns out has always lived food insecure having seven kids) as she drifts from church to church (mega church usually) and sees her fellow devotees for example use "bougie" in their business name unaware the term gained attention from describing class-conflict. Likely from a theorist about which the right seems finds ill-ease (Marx). I see class awareness in my left-leaning mother in a retirement self-concious of not arriving as comfortably as others of her generation (to be expected from - being raised steeped in this mindset) I've thought of my sister as using "toxic positivity" when she has cruelly dismisses other's difficulties. This video will help me revisit whether or not I'm seeing tragic optimism or not. Sidelined I realize I have to feel my feelings and avoid being manipulated to be down when someone points to unhealthy solutions to get through rough patches. Sorry about the length - just trying to personalize the confusion that appears all around in my corner of the USA. This video offers a kind of attainable hope. I'm grateful for this.

[@Krazie-Ivan]

@ipeefreely9865 ...thx for helping people. it's easy to get swept-up in the effort to fix the causes of people's struggles, and not provide in the moment they're in need.

[@Krazie-Ivan]

@@ppss.6302 ...GOP has been great at using the "other" to motivate support against the interests of the working class. most Dems just fight to maintain the illusion of a functional system. understanding manipulation & using it for personal gain, is not a virtue.

[@phaunvods]

Your timing of posting this so people can find it during a doom scroll or in the morning is so nice (at least for americans). I listened to this during a workout and it really helped center me.

[@DasiaDoesIt]

@@phaunvods thanks for letting me join your work out. Such lovely imagery you’ve given me today. 🥰

[@tofu1608]

I saw this video title while experiencing extreme nihilism. Immediate subscription. This is something very valuable to everyone who is growing up or growing old under the crumbling shadow of the dying American Empire. Just remember: it will only get harder as the empire dies.

[@jnaught1358]

I say this with ULTIMATE RESPECT… I wish this woman was my neighbor. Just for tea and conversation. Mr. Baldwin was a personal friend of my dad. As a youngster, I had no clue whom I was talking to, I had no clue the jewels I was given amongst his cigarette smoke and raspy voice. I do now.. And wow! This was DOPE!!!

[@JackDanielsDayLewis]

Lord what a beautiful, wonderful expression of humanity you are!

[@nin9249]

Im sat here, 48 years old, penniless, no furniture or posessions, alienated by my kids and exploited by every single man i trusted ever, also neglected by my mum and beaten by my dad. Still, i want to plant some local wildflowers and live to 80. I want to enjoy my future ven if it is alone x

[@r.p.6452]

@@nin9249 it's never too late to make this life truly yours. I wish you well.

[@tigerstripepudding]

I believe in you, and I hope that your garden grows beautifully🩷

[@YouGotOptions2]

BARZ

[@pantherzzz111]

I agree with everything you say, born in 1963 in my life time alone I have seen the tragic shift of human consciousness to that of complete capitalism, money is everything, and people are to be used to get ahead. I don’t want to come across as a Bible basher, because I most certainly am not, but it is the beliefs of humanity that has us the way we are, I have witnessed many friends, who did very well in life, but are not happy and are not nice people, to get rich you have to become ruthless. The answer lies in reconnecting to our true selves, people are ruled by the ego mind, which is the false self. Meditation allows us to reconnect to our true selves, and is a very powerful practice, you loose this sense of isolated self and care about others because you see that we are all connected. It also allows us to be in the present moment more. As tough as life is, imagine trying to survive in this world when you have connected to your true self, where you could do no harm to another living being, where all greed and malice has left, where you could not even hold a bad thought about another. Problem is, are we too far gone for everyone to realise we need to change our mindset, great video, very well put

[@shadeaquaticbreeder2914]

3:29 lemme stop you there. Here is the true and only answer to what we face. Community. We need to recreate and establish real communities and live communally not individualistically

[@leftielori1312]

How embarassing for them every time you ask them to define that word. Love it.

[@Endrick-real]

Girl I just love your vibe , fan from Kenya

[@DasiaDoesIt]

Thank you so much for being here.🎉

[@fast.jortimer]

Jambo!

[@kbr517]

16:26 Holy cow this idea is so simple but actually genius. Communal sharing of a lawnmower with neighbors is so brilliant.

[@kludgecraft813]

Simple, but radical. It would be very difficult to implement that one idea alone, but as part of a shift to increased collectivism among neighbors, it makes so much sense. Gotta start even smaller, however you can. Say hello to neighbors. Lend a helping hand when you see the opportunity. Share produce from your garden with neighbors. Really any tiny gesture so show that you care about your neighbors, and they can ask for help if they need something.

[@jem-j1j]

My Mom let her neighbor borrow her lawn mower once. They returned it caked with grass, a broken wheel and out of gas.

[@seriouskaraoke879]

@@jem-j1j Hahhahahahaha --- goddammit. Just when we were on the cusp of a societal paradigm shift you had to point to the turd in the punchbowl. Hilarious. Have you considered Stand Up? That is some serious observational comedy right there. ~clap~clap~clap~

[@JackDanielsDayLewis]

Even the yards we have are a capitalist concoction. Instead of gardens to feed ourselves and others we only have grass. We are taught dandelions are weeds instead of edible nature. They sell us stuff to make the grass grow more. Then pesticides to kill everything not grass. Then mowers to mow the grass. Then we waste water to grow the lawns. Then spend more on food than if we had grown gardens. Etc etc

[@badomaji]

@@kludgecraft813 For many lost souls, these behaviors are viewed as weakness or foolishness.

[@Desta2086]

As I navigate existential depression and anxiety while managing motherhood and grief I find this video so “right on time”. It’s brought me to tears and I feel like I’m not alone. Thankful for these specks of time and all the wisdom they have brought me.

[@Lyra0966]

As a Brit who lived in the US during Bush junior's presidency I experiences the vacuity of what passes for mainstream American culture. But what bothered me most during my time there was the culture of, shameless consumerism and the very evident disparities in wealth and opportunity. These things bothered me to such a degree I made the decision to return home to Blighty, only to discover that the UK was rapidly going the same way.

[@helpfulharm]

uk and west europe was the original capitalist society they gave the us that culture. but tv/film propaganda put the us in front as a figurehead around the time zionism rose bc it was the only way to keep the colonies in line w the old western wealth powers

[@AB-wf8ek]

@@Lyra0966 :(

[@NimmiCat]

The consumerism is a distraction and the opiate of the masses in a way.

[@MalcolmoreAnims]

cried several times during this video. your content always give me so much clarity and relief and I know that watching this is one of the memories I will look back fondly on!

[@phumlanindlovu5653]

As a South African 🇿🇦 I fully agree with what's said on this video, because individualism success has been more glorified more than doing things as a collective which end up benefitting a few people while a majority suffers.

[@smilleur]

If this isnt one of the most if not the most empathetic discussion about this subject I have ever heard. You radiate compassion. Continue to be you forever

[@maebaby]

This made me sob just like Everything Everywhere. It really let me release some of the guilt I feel for wanting to be happy despite all the suffering our world is going through. I choose to live by the notion that everyone deserves happiness and joy, including me ❤

[@LifeAsMarie7]

I had to make a playlist called “Important” just for this video. Thank you so much.

[@Lind_Slay]

Dasia, I had never heard of tragic optimism before your video and your explanation of it has touched me profoundly. I have been someone who sways towards nihilism through much of my life, but your presentation of this shift in perspective has given me so much to consider, and some hope in what I have been feeling is an absolutely bleak future. The Vondlepark park story that you shared was so beautiful. Just, thank you, so much for putting this together.

[@NiazRaki]

As a Philosophy BA, this is the most profound and dense video essay i have ever stumbled upon. I look forward to more thought-provoking labors of love in the future. ❤

[@melissacochran1760]

Dasia you inspire me. Thank you for being vulnerable and knowledgeable and so fun to watch. I love your channel so much. I don't have a lot of money, but I wanted to send you something. I'm rooting for you always ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜

[@BrianaBird3]

I've been suffering and struggling to cope with despair and grief since my brother took his own life earlier this year. I get so lost in the what ifs and whys, I try to wrap my head around the reasons for this and ultimately causing myself unnecessary suffering. I took a lot of lessons from this video and will keep this in my bookmarks. You spoke to a part of me that yearns to be fully whole again. Thank you, Dasia.

[@felishaspersonalmail4953]

@@BrianaBird3 I'm sorry bri

[@createone100]

💕💕💕🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🇨🇦

[@dopaminey9946]

How terrible. So sorry for your loss. Suicide is very high these days. Which means society is failing us humans. Humans are saying there is a lack of fundamental needs that leads to horrible thoughts.

[@BrianaBird3]

@@dopaminey9946 I absolutely agree with this. In my coming to terms with my younger brother's passing I've found the holes in our society that could so easily be remedied that aren't because of greed.

[@andreapoulieva6717]

I am so very sorry for your loss ❤

[@icomplain2006]

Seeing Deonte talk to those young brothers made me tear up because I've seen so many of us hurting on the streets just trying to be human in the only way we've been shown. Sooo many gems in this. Thank you!

[@icomplain2006]

I am in tears again seeing the Amsterdam stage dance section. This is a deep learning about pain and joy, thank you again!

[@tjsuperwierd]

I understand why I was shown this from algorithm, but I don’t know where this came from. And still thank you for your existence

[@greenmountain3718]

This is one of the most articulate, well made and incredibly powerful videos I've seen on KZbin in a long time. Thank you

[@DasiaDoesIt]

Thanks for checking out my video.❤️

[@00NOTICA]

The ease of tension between the reporter and the kids, just by speaking to them as people, really resonated with me. The eagerness to listen and to be heard. Thank you for this exceptional video, it was a great watch to start the day:)

[@heyimbtk]

KZbin recommended your video to me at such an opportune time. I’ve been in a do-nothing era of sorts, but up until 3ish years ago, I was always productive somehow. I think I just hit a place of burnout while not being too bothered by it. Anyway, your story of skating in France reminded me of my own heaven moment, while also reminding me that my suffering is never permanent. Great video, wonderful voice and presence. Thank you 🙏

[@TimeToTalkShow]

You are absolutely one of the most interesting, profoundly enlightening, engaging people I've come across.

[@Minilove101]

Came for the rollerskating help stayed for the thoughtful life advice 🙌

[@tessjune88]

lol!!! Me too. Dasia is amazing.

[@charlesburkard3289]

I feel a great shift in me. I am so grateful to have landed here. You’ve helped me connect a ton of dots. I’ve got a lot to unpack here. Genuinely, I’m filled with gratitude for you.

[@Sekhet-Ra]

Love it, tragic optimism!! Within the laws of maat, there is the law of rhythm, meaning seasons of change. Every season has its highs and lows; to build you must destroy; etc. The key is to grow and change into a better version of self and to know that the friction change creates, is only for a period of time. Change is supreme in the universe. It's not easy but necessary. Without growth and change, is death. Enjoyed the msg!!

[@EmpressMoxie]

Thank you Dasia, as an environmental scientist your video resonates with me and makes me feel grateful that you broke down so many barriers to understanding the cycle we all currently live in. 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@jreicher]

I am not a particularly philosophical person and over the past few years I sort of arrived at tragic optimism without having a name for it or realizing it was an overarching framework. This reboot helped me recover from a world gone mad. Strangely, the people who witnessed my recovery - the people still forced into the rugged individualism mindset that is tearing our society apart - cannot seem to understand it. By watching your video, I think I may finally have the tools and the words to help others break out of the existential grief they experience nearly every moment of their lives. A valuable set of skills to help others grapple with the next four years. Thanks for taking the time to create a long-form video that I can refer others to.

[@KrisWitAKapitalK]

TW: I’m so glad you spoke on absurdism and the story of Sisyphus. Recently this year I discovered that story on a Reddit board while I was looking at nihilism posts and trying to give myself more of a reason why my suffering was valid so I was allowed to leave the world behind and unalive myself. I saw a meme that had the two sides on the train and one side was like “you’re gonna die anyway so nothing matters” and the other side said the exact same thing. I interpreted that as you’re gonna die anyways so you might as well enjoy yourself and do everything you want. You only have approximately 60 years of life and while that may seem like a lifetime I realized the things that were stopping me from unaliving myself weren’t the people I was gonna miss, it was the experiences I would miss out on trying to become the master of my own fate. A lot of people could use this video and really resonate with it. I also appreciate your non forceful but still informative approach to providing information that can save someone’s life potentially.

[@jem-j1j]

So glad you're still here. Enjoy it all.

[@DasiaDoesIt]

I am glad that you're here. We are not allowed to talk about the reality that opting out is an option. But it is. At the end of the day, you don't have to be here, but also...it's going to happen anyway..a blip of time. Why speed up the clock and maybe not experience more beautiful things that you didn't even realize were possible? I think the people who consciously choose their life..are so much more powerful than they realize. Most people just go through the motions, but to consciously choose to say.."okay, I am going to give this life thing my best shot, I am going to squeeze life out until the last drop."is so so powerful. I hope you know that you are more powerful than you realize. ❤

[@GreatBigBore]

13:10 - let’s clarify what America’s “unfettered capitalism” is. It’s not the fantasy system where the free market would optimize everything if the government would just stay out of the way. Rather, it’s the real system where the people we elect to serve the broad public interest are really serving the interests of the corporations and their wealthy owners, at the expense of us commoners

[@MehItzMe]

@@GreatBigBore I agree with almost everything except the part where you said “the people WE elect” I truly believe this to be false. I believe money chooses them, WE do not. We are like the rats and mice used in labs, no say, just do. If you can make it to the top, then you can become one of them and pay for your representatives for office. Not just an American thing, a global theme. Everything else I agree

[@fast.jortimer]

remember when the Senator from MBNA became President because the alternative was the guy who gave Kevin McAllister directions to the bathroom one time and everyone acted like this was good and normal?

[@rubberbiscuit99]

@@GreatBigBore It seems even more than being "at the expense of" us commoners, this system requires us to serve as fuel.

[@dopaminey9946]

Yes, which is why that old social contract helps to prolong a healthy society. Community is good but it must encompass a Nation where community is in all directions. We are like family bound together by a social contract that urges us to help our neighbor or neighbors; or just sit and chat or watch our kids and pets play together anywhere we are in this vast country. If only.

[@chrisd1]

Parts of this, the mindfulness and presence "in the moment", what Brooke McAlary calls "single tasking", along with the appreciation of the "small joys", and of community , remind me very much of the Voluntary Simplicity movement and how much that resonated with me, and still does. Thank you for this

[@RedScareClair]

You have no idea how timely this video was for me. Thank you ❤️ Also, I need to read Baldwin

[@DasiaDoesIt]

Thanks for being here! He’s truly a gem and I think a lot of his work can put words to what so many people are feeling.

[@seriouskaraoke879]

"I need to read Baldwin" -- exactly. I was just thinking the same.

[@Dork2099]

Baldwin is the best. I started with “The Fire Next Time” then went on to “Gionvanni’s Room”.

[@KarmaKittyFubarZen]

YES! Thanks! Sharing this everybody

[@DasiaDoesIt]

@@KarmaKittyFubarZen thank you so much for being here and sharing. 🥰

[@deidrajohnson2143]

So about a week ago, I was asked to provide my annual Xmas wishlist that I was supposed to produce a month ago. I just haven’t been able to bring myself to want to fill my home with anything else. Sure, there are things I might need or like to have but the idea of having to reckon with yet another thing or sets and piles of things makes me kind of sick. Then, Dasia’s short video came up on my FYP and I was hooked. I’m so happy to see her on KZbin. This is really helping me to understand my disillusionment.

[@Justchantel]

Thank you for bringing back old school KZbin with the long form content. It is greatly appreciated and adds much needed depth to this space. 💜

[@hannievee]

Somehow this ended up on both mine and my 75 year old fathers KZbin algorithm but we watch totally different things. This is the content we need.

[@Freakforphotos]

I'm so sorry that you've had to sit with so much suffering, and I hope you know how much good you're putting out into the world by helping people understand these concepts. We can hear or read about something a thousand times, and it might not click until that thousandth iteration - that may be you. Thank you for taking the time to put in this work. It is much appreciated.

[@kvbo2564]

Thank you so much for this video & all the work you put into it 👏🏿❤

[@DasiaDoesIt]

Thank you! I’m glad it resonated. 🙏🏾✨

[@hernehill6282]

It was an all-time low after the holiday. But then there was you. You really helped me move forward in a big way. Dasia, infinite thanks and blessings to you.

[@tigren37]

This video showed up for me at the absolute perfect moment. I was just telling my therapist the other day that I feel like I'm wearing these glasses that let me see what no one else can see. But that I know it's not that they can't see it, it's that they're too tired and overwhelmed and stuck to see it. I knew I'm not the only person feeling this way, but I didn't have anything or anyone to connect to. But now I'm here crying after watching this video and reading these comments and truly knowing I'm not alone instead of just "there's no way I'm the only one." Thank you. Thank you thank you thank you.

[@RedMei126]

Thanks!

[@DasiaDoesIt]

Appreciate you being here!

[@nicolasbourgoignie424]

DAMN. Now this is the realest shit I have ever seen on any media platform, I am truly shocked at how genuine and on point all of your arguments and way of thinking is, as it's not something we see much of today. Congrats to you Dasia and to the viewers for choosing to partake in this ideology, the whole world needs to hear you!

[@Sencman1]

Hello from Trinidad. Perfect. At this moment , for me , this is like arriving at an oasis and getting the first drink of sweet water after travelling through arid wasteland. Thank you very much.

[@rosef5801]

Very moving. I have been struggling with myself and where I fit in the world. I used to get panic attacks about how big and broken the world is and when and how I could fix it, but you have to start with community and mindfulness. I’m still learning but this video helped guide me, thank you.

[@ichewsme]

just read this in democracy matters, cornel west . also just thought today, our generation is missing people like him, like you! not new ideas but ty for putting them back into the now

[@Youtuber1045]

This is hard for me to swallow because of everything I’ve experienced. I worked at a homeless shelter with ass backward policies for staff. I worked so hard to make things better, even denying a wage increase for myself to split among my employees. I saw major wage inequity among executives and listened to them tell us to lie about the budget to donors. I watched executives get away with sexual harassment all because they desperately wanted the money to fund their non profit which funnels over 500k annually into the pockets of the executives and leaves a small percentage for the rest of the staff, including the ones who are expected to get assaulted on shift and don’t have any security watching the place. It breaks my heart. What did I get for it? I got fired. So much for trying to make a change.

[@aliciaknott8109]

Wow, this is so enlightening! So true that community connection are no longer we're define by our productivity. The system is not built for humanistic but economic gain. I grew up that where neighbors helped everyone, we had block parties etc. We raised our daughter the same way. I hate to admit this it all changed after Obama won his 2nd term. I don't think those block clubs will ever comeback in some cities (blocks) due too various reasons. People don't trust folks now. I navigate by reading, walking, cleaning and doing a good deed for someone.Thanks for the refreshing quotes by Mr. Baldwin. Thanks for sharing some of your personal stories with us. So sorry for your loss. You dropped a lot of nuggets in this vlog. I believe your personal one will definitely help someone that's grieving.

[@dkdoodle]

@@aliciaknott8109 What happened in Obama’s 2nd term?

[@aliciaknott8109]

@dkdoodle People didn't want him.to win his 2nd term even those in Democratic Party. If you recall in 2010 the Democrats lost seats because of their own party.

[@èè-fày-chóó-qóó]

ughhh the PRODUCTION QUALITY!!!! this is soooo good, i found this at 6:30am on a saturday morning and my godddd...connection is secondary to competition is insaneee.

[@bluebassboy22]

I truly appreciate your video. I'm at a point in my life where i have been working tirelessly for 5 years to get a career at the age of 37. College full-time, work full time, no car, poor. And it all hit me this week: why am i killing myself for a society that doesn't care for me? At first, it was because i didn't want to work in a restaurant my whole life, but then i recently got a job that i love, even though it isn't much money. This was only able through that hard work. But then I also wanted to get a car and a house one day, and school is a great challenge, which I enjoy. But I don't want to take out any more loans. I also thought that it was my ethical duty not to waste my brain, to give back. But now I'm thinking, why? To give back to a society that topples governments without a centralized bank? That kills its own citizens? That values shareholders over well-being? I am perfectly fine being poor. I can also see that I am chasing something that really has no meaning. I love learning. I can ready my books, I don't have to prove it in a classroom to get a degree for a job I might not ever get. Now I am in reality, and now I can finally rest finding this acceptance. I accept my situation, and now I am free because I understand the truth. There is nothing in this world for me. I will only trust in God.

[@RedMei126]

I truly appreciate your videos ❤ Your voice has been a light for me. Your last video inspired me to get involved again, and I just got accepted to a local civics program in my city!

[@DasiaDoesIt]

Im so so proud of you, I cannot even express how much you taking action inspires those around you! Thank you for being here.❤️❤️

[@icomplain2006]

Power and purpose to you big sis! WE are proud of you!

[@itsallgoodb]

Dasia let me just say if you had a course I would take it! You have a such a knack for breaking down complex topics and make it easy for the average person to understand. Thank you for your work, and remember to care for yourself during these crazy times ❤

[@jadedphoenixprojects]

I am so glad that I found you. This is something I've been working through for a long time. "The struggle" is a feature of our system.

[@Eveseptir]

Many parents just don't have the tools to help their children navigate a world that is struggling to find meaning beyond materialism. The age of information and disinformation bombards us relentlessly with conflinting narratives that is hard to stay on top of, but we must try. When our kids watch us struggle and try, success is less important then how we deal with failure. Anyway loved your essay, you'd make a good shrink 😊. Accepting life and engaging it with virtue opens the door to moments of serendipity and joy. The moments that make life worth living. Those comments about black women are horrible. Sisters be the sharpest, funniest, warmest and most genuine people on earth. That's my crew if I'm around when the wheels come off; I'll be with survivors.

[@Ithel-gd7ex]

You "survivors" are just gonna keep walking in circles subjecting your kids to the meat grinder. Ya'll are just sadists

[@LeftTenantCaprice]

@@Eveseptir my 7 year old asked me what the purpose and meaning of his life was. It has rapidly become so important to me that I have a good answer for him. I think about how lost I’ve been most of my life because I was expected to pursue “rugged individualism” without even helpful guidance. No ethical system, no philosophy of life, no meaning was even shared with me by my caregivers. I’ll be damned if my child is going to wade out into this hellscape without a compass.

[@JoshuaLuellen-rg8xp]

Thank you! I get so discouraged when it seems everyone just demonizes certain youth without understanding them

[@vlogo4371]

Anthony Bourdain having left the party early does start to make sense when watching his content. Even after editing, his existentialist depression seeps through. The anger and grief are right there, made pretty and profitable for the camera. Many of his friends and people he met on travels exited the stage in gruesome ways in war zones. Of course all of that could crack someone of his temperament. It could crack so many of us.

[@SyntheticLiquor]

This video brought me to tears. Thank you. I hope you continue to make the same choice I did, which is to keep on living.

[@teasea33]

This was the first video of yours I've seen but man did it resonate. Not only did it give perspective and comfort in its themes, but your voice is also very calming too. I needed this today.

[@colinjordan8335]

I visited another country last weekend. First time being out the U.S. in almost a decade. I felt alive for the first time since being a kid. I don't know how much of my future will actually be spent in the states

[@Griot-Guild]

Which country?

[@MrDjdanieljose]

@@Griot-Guild North Korea

[@charnaeyoung9815]

@@MrDjdanieljose LMAO this radical, trollish response actually made me laugh. Sh!ts funny.

[@michelleLE974]

Wow, I think this video altered my brain chemistry. I have a hard time understanding philosophy, and I’d admit I often fall on the side of nihilism that leaves me depleted, but the way you explained it through your personal experiences and the ability to see impermanence through it all really stood out to me. Thank you. ❤️

[@hiddenechoes]

❤🫂