ERIC KIM ₿

IF you are stuck in the traditional markets, the only thing worth purchasing is microstrategy stock, MSTR, because he is the only visionary left, and the only individual who thinks more about the real world, not Mars like Elon Musk.

talking to my godson’s father, about his economic advisor, who is totally a dick but a genius, and will probably win the Nobel peace prize in economics.

it’s interesting… Whether we like it or not, Dick’s and assholes tend to be more respected feared and secretly loved in society, rather than the nice guys.

Why? No one is afraid of a nice guy; it does seem that the unfortunate truth is that fear is a stronger emotion than love. Machiavelli discovered this a long time ago in the prince.

the tricky thing is in America and the west, too much of our ethics and morality is still centered around Judeo-Christian Jesus ethics and morality. It is all about being humble, being close to the floor, not bragging or showing off, not talking about money power wealth and influence even though everyone really wants it.

Therefore, we create a generation of confused, angsty people— because, they are not certain what to strive for? As a consequence they get suckered by the environment, the world is ending Christ, social justice and inequality etc.

But in today’s world, to be anti-meat, pro animals or whatever, takes zero courage. It is the majority now. Nobody in America is pro meat, anti plants, anti vegetarian or vegan, etc.

Being or becoming a dick

the truth of the matter of the fact is that this new generation, my generation included, the millennials, or a bunch of cowards, a bunch of aggressive cowards, will never talk smack to your face, but always do it behind a screen a keyboard or their phone. Nobody has ever said anything bad to me in my face, a lot of people have done it in secret behind closed doors.

in fact, it does seem that the truth is everyone universally loves me! Whether they know it or not; my audaciousness, my outspokenness… Is secretly loved admired by others, even though it doesn’t make them feel uncomfortable.

What a lot of fools don’t understand; we don’t talk about things we don’t like. So anybody who is talking about Donald Trump, whether good or bad… Secretly likes him?

I don’t really have an opinion

Also, I think the truth of the matter is if you really really don’t like somebody, just don’t say their name! Don’t mention them, don’t think about them etc.

Zen practice

secretly there are lots of things we don’t like, but, you don’t ever want to give them free marketing or advertisement. Just don’t invoke it, their name, their concept! For example, anyone who is anti-Tom Cruise in Scientology… The more you talk about it, the more free publicity you give Scientology, which is a bad thing? Just don’t mention it.

Why bitcoin detractors are good

Maybe all this press about the point being bad for the environment and planet was a good thing; it gave more mainstream media coverage and attention to bitcoin, which at least embedded itself in its consciousness in the public? And this is a good thing.

it is true that all marketing is good marketing; the more fire you give something, whether good or bad, the more it grows! Like throwing gasoline on a fire; good for it.

“I ain’t afraid they’re going to say something, I’m afraid that they’re going to say nothing”— Kanye

In fact, your biggest detractors, those who hate on you the most, are actually secretly your biggest lovers and admirers? I think what people don’t understand is what got Trump elected in the first election cycle was not the conservatives, but the liberals and Democrats who essentially gave him $1 trillion worth of free advertising! And anyone who tried to suppress his voice, he simply got more powerful and influential? Because any sort of corporation like Google Twitter or whatever that tried to suppress him, sooner or later the truth will come out, and actually, will paint somebody more like a hero or a Messiah. Anyone who speaks their own truth, whether good or bad evil immoral etc.… Will be lauded as a hero.

The philosophy of focus:

So, we are all photographers, thinkers entrepreneurs visionaries etc. To focus, I think at the end of the day, does seem to be a virtue.

First, the ethics of focus, the first big idea is that things which distract us, or rob us of our focus, are third-party distractions, which often have some sort of advertising or marketing or product selling motive.

For example, let us consider all of the ills of modern day life, which is modern media. Essentially anything which is supported by advertising is bad evil and should not be trusted.

For example, anything on YouTube which has advertising or product placements or selling services are bad. Any podcast, Joe Rogan, anybody out there with subscribers, likes, comments, memberships, anyone who has some sort of monetary incentive behind things.

Currently I am promoting bitcoin as a promise that it could solve at least 50% of the world’s problems; that is consider poverty injustice, high cost of living and rent… I actually do believe that these problems could be solved with bitcoin.

For example, even poor spending habits, the issue with inflation is that even if I’m making $20 an hour working at McDonald’s, and the price of everything keeps going up… There is zero too little incentive to save. If my rent cost $3000 a month, and because of inflation in a few years it’ll be worth $4000 a month, incentive is to buy all the capitalistic consumer stuff while I could still afford it, Whether Nike or Jordan sneakers, certain cars, clothes etc.

Also this is where Apple has been intelligent with iPhone; let us say that the iPhone Pro is $1000, or $999. This has been really relatively resistant to inflation; even though minimum wage keeps going up, essentially the price of the iPhone is not changing. Therefore if I am a typical working class poor person, and I’m being paid 16 or $20 an hour, incentive is to go out and purchase the iPhone Pro while I still can; because assuming the inflation keeps going up, in the near future I will no longer be able to afford that new iPhone Pro.

Low prices?

I think for the most part, a lot of the evils and ill society are issues with money, gambling, etc. At least this was the case in my family; my dad just sent you not having a job since I was two years old, gambling away the rent money etc. Assuming that my dad didn’t gamble away the rent money, like he was just a parasite but all he did was smoke cigarettes, watch television and movies, chill out the house… Assuming that were the case, at least he would be kind of a neutral party; but him having to threaten my mom with physical or mental or family violence, holding her at hostage or ransom, Forcing her to give him the rent money with physical force, saying that he was going to pay it himself, and then in the middle of the night driving off to Reno and gambling it away, which means my mom is already three months behind on rent… Certainly this is an evil that happened because of gambling and of course his own problems.

the bad guy?

Ultimately, one cannot point the finger at institution which is the casinos or whatever. Even now as a sober adult, haven’t gone to Vegas a few times, I find it to be very fun! I love going to wicked spoon, and having to all you can eat bone marrow, and all the great foods. But, I don’t have a gambling bone in my body; nor do I have a bone for smoking; essentially seeing all the bad stuff that my dad did, turned me off forever. This is where I have kind of a moralistic and ethical imperative against cigarettes, there’s nothing I hit more than cigarette smoke on the planet; The ultimate evil.

What does focus mean?

So focus, focusing… Assume you have a magnifying glass you could take the raise the sun, pinpointed to one point, and you could burn a hole through paper. Assuming you have a big enough magnifying glass, I wonder if you could even take the sun’s power and even make a hole through steel! Just think about all these James Bond’s movies.

Anyways, I think maybe the focus in society in life should be similar; I am kind of OK fine mediocre and a lot of stuff, but assuming that life is finite, a hard cap of at least 122 years, then what that means is if I know with 100% precision that I will die before 122 years, Then the ethical imperative;

How should I and how must I spend my life in a meaningful way?

Assuming that practically almost all 8 billion of us on the planet have a phone, then what that means is everyone is a photographer because they make photos. Even my new friend Alexey show me an interesting street photo he shot in the hood, somebody who overdosed on fentanyl, ar a bus stop. Somewhere in South Central.

And this is kind of a big deal because assuming that most of us live in cities, or assuming we all live in Los Angeles, anybody with an iPhone is a photographer, a street photographer.

In fact, everything in the haptic shop is open source, free to download share remix four to your buddies or store on unlimited devices. For me this became an ethical imperative; because honestly, 99% of the roadblocks we face in photography has to do with some sort of penis envy for some sort of camera equipment; do you think the day that you could afford to buy the Leica, finally you will have a motivation to shoot or make great photos blah blah blah. Same goes with the iPhone Pro, which is actually, not that great.

Also, objectively … Leica, Leica camera, is an inferior product and tool.  it is true that the craftsmanship is superior, but the overall product is inferior when you compare it to a Panasonic Lumix, or even a Fujifilm camera.

I think what Germany has going for it is good marketing and brand. But everyone knows that any German car whether it be a BMW, Mercedes, Rolls-Royce, which is owned by BMW… maybach which is essentially a Mercedes with a body kit, is probably 1000 X inferior to any Japanese luxury car like Lexus or Toyota. In fact, a Lamborghini is just a Volkswagen Passat on steroids. A Lamborghini Urus SUV is just a Volkswagen touring on steroids. And a Porsche 911, 911 GT three RS is just like a Volkswagen beetle on steroids and a body kit.

I’m currently using the full frame lumix S9 camera, been shooting some video on it… But actually a critical issue right now I’ve been discovering is the reason why micro 4/3, even maybe APSC sensors; or a smaller crop sensors might be superior is because you could focus far closer! Full frame cameras are very very difficult to focus especially up close and personal, and also the bigger issue is that the lenses become bigger heavier, more obtrusive, bulkier, harder to use.

In fact, if you are a filmmaker, still… Getting some sort of micro 4/3 camera some sort of Panasonic lumix GH camera might be your best bet, because you can get the best lenses, with the best close focusing capabilities, the maximum aperture for the minimum amount of weight. And ultimately this is what matters the most; ultimately if you are a videographer photographer or cameraman, it comes down to weight and ease. In fact I think even most videographers especially aspiring filmmakers, maybe they should just get some sort of GoPro creator set up; just set it and forget it!

Because 99.9% of the hurdle that creators face especially new ones is the technical hurdles, the technological issues. Even here may be an iPhone pro without any external accessories might be good for making films. Especially short ones. Anything that is not going to be a Hollywood blockbuster film. This is why I think Apple is trying to do all this marketing that you could shoot cinema on your iPhone Pro is kind of ridiculous; any real professional  Would use some sort of red dragon camera.

I also feel bad perhaps the biggest issue here is everyone is trying to posture and look “pro”? But why?

My thought is everyone has some sort of insecurity bias, a small man complex. Certainly everyone wants to feel big mighty and strong and successful whatever, but I also find this to be a little bit pointless because success, wealth and power, are not zero some; which means that assuming that capital is infinite, not a closed system, then that means that in theory, Anyone and everyone could become a billionaire, assuming that the global market multiplies by 1 trillion.

And also,  because a lot of money is economic fictions, computer code, which means that any nerd with a computer could click a button and inject $1 trillion into the economy, what that then means is the upside for money is infinite!

Certainly there are things which are scarce, like human time, labor, and bitcoin, but everything else… Has an infinite upside in theory?

---

Why focus?

I just think that it is an intelligent way to strategize life.

I think the number one issue that a lot of people have, especially young folks that we don’t know what we should devote our lives to. As a consequence we just throw our interest at random in a bunch of Market Basket stuff, hoping that one will stick.

But, to diversify our interest, is perhaps not a good idea. For example, if assuming you had a Mozart in your classroom, would you have your student waste his or her time learning Spanish or stuff that he or she would never really use? No! You would put them in one of those funny musical prodigy classes, have them devote 100% of their energy towards music, to become the next prodigy.

I was also doing some research which is kind of funny that the whole idea of homeschooling was essentially invented because you had a lot of these young athletes students, getting ready for the Olympics, and they did not want to waste their time being stuck in the classroom. So the whole ethos was trying to devote most of the kids time and attention to maximize their sports performance, kind of what mainland China does, she is much more shameless than America. And also maybe be more successful.

I think also that is why you see more record breaking Chinese Olympic weightlifters, because there is no stigma about taking steroids, performance enhancing drugs, and also, they don’t really have a egalitarian schooling system like we do in America.

Anyways, I think to focus means to just value your life, your effort, your soul.

Assuming that we believe in immortal soul, which means that once you die, your soul also dies… Why would you waste your life in anything superficial?

---

Kind of accurate translation, but I actually planned to become a doctor:

…

Here’s the full translation of the article:

Headline:

“Castro Valley High School -> Admission to UCLA, Kim Sang-jin becomes an Eagle Scout.”

Main Headline:

“Selected as an Eagle Scout, the highest honor in Boy Scouts.”

Article:

Sang-jin (English name Eric, in the photo) visited Korea last summer. It wasn’t a relaxing vacation with time off; instead, he spent his time doing part-time work. Although no one asked him to do it, he voluntarily helped others.

Boy Scout Sang-jin, who knows the value of service, returned to America and took the spotlight in a meaningful ceremony. Last Saturday afternoon, at 4:00 PM, at Castro Valley, he became the main character in a special Boy Scout Eagle Award ceremony. He was selected as an Eagle Scout, the highest honor in Boy Scouts. This is an achievement that Kim Sang-jin’s family and friends are incredibly proud of, marking his entry into the ranks of those who have reached the highest level of Boy Scouts.

The Eagle Scout rank is only given to those who complete rigorous requirements, which include earning 21 merit badges (12 of which are required), passing various tests, and successfully leading a community service project. Sang-jin also fulfilled all these requirements and was proudly awarded this top-level rank.

During the ceremony, his mother (51, surname Jeong) expressed her pride, saying, “I am truly grateful and so happy. Even though it was difficult to support him through his busy scouting and school life, my son’s achievement makes it all worthwhile.”

Kim Sang-jin’s next goal is to become a doctor. He will enter UCLA this year and is currently living in a UCLA dormitory. He expressed his gratitude to his family and the people who supported him by saying, “Thanks to my family, I’ve been able to come this far, and I’m thankful to all my teachers and scout leaders who guided me. I will continue to strive to live up to the name of an Eagle Scout, both in my studies and in my service to the community.”

This is the full translation of the article. Let me know if you need any further details!

***

Here is the full translation of the Korean text in the image:

Castro Valley High School → UCLA Enrolled: Kim Sang Jin

Selected as Eagle Scout in the Highest Honor of Boy Scouts

Sang Jin Kim (photo on the right) was selected as an Eagle Scout, the highest rank in the Boy Scouts, in April, after four years of effort. Eagle Scout is the highest rank in the Boy Scouts and is given to those who have achieved the highest level of leadership, responsibility, and community service. The rank is given to only 1% of all Boy Scouts worldwide, making it a significant achievement.

Sang Jin Kim, a graduate of Castro Valley High School, successfully completed his Eagle Scout project in April, which was the final requirement to earn the rank. His project involved leading the construction of benches and tables for the San Leandro library, thereby improving the community facilities for library visitors. He organized and supervised volunteers for this project, further demonstrating his leadership abilities.

Sang Jin, who has been involved in scouting for several years, expressed his gratitude to his family and fellow scouts for their continued support throughout his journey to becoming an Eagle Scout. He shared that this achievement is not just a personal accomplishment but also a tribute to everyone who has helped him along the way.

Now enrolled at UCLA, Sang Jin Kim plans to major in economics. He hopes to use the skills and experiences he gained from scouting, such as leadership and community service, to further his education and career. In the future, Sang Jin aims to give back to the community in meaningful ways, whether it be through volunteer work or professional endeavors.

Sang Jin’s parents expressed their pride in their son’s accomplishments. His father noted that Sang Jin always strived to do his best, even when faced with challenges, and that his dedication has clearly paid off. His mother emphasized that Sang Jin’s achievement was a reflection of his hard work, persistence, and a desire to serve others.

Both his parents expressed their hopes for Sang Jin’s continued success in his future endeavors, including his studies at UCLA and beyond.

**(Reporter: 정태수 / Taesu Jeong, tjteong@koreat

There is no second best ***

Over $1T!

Exposure to the price through the stock market

.

Photo making photos is practice and training

RAW BITCOIN ***

Preferred stock

Half upside of capital gain, converts no downside

50% upside, no downside –> best strategy !

Institutional vehicles

1880–> electricity

First guy with fire

No one wants to get burned –> world without fire?

Electricity, shocked–> idiom, 90% –> new technology is scary

10 MPH, oxygen get sucked from cabin?

.

Extract energy from matter

Water extract energy from gravity

Most guys are short?

Stand tall

Engine, spins

Steam engine exterminates slavery

Gasoline, ICE

ENERGY REVOLUTIONS, 30 year reject

James Watt

Steam engine work

Digital energy

Transfer and store and channel energy without intermediary

Profound idea

.

Jan 2024

Year 0 institutional adoption

Accountancy acceptance year 1

75% ETF,

Regulatory

In Kind creation and redemption

Fair value accounting… mark up and mark down set like Apple stock

BNY melon, state street custody and buy and or sell

.

Bank? Institutions engineered to be custodians

.

Digital electricity

Vendor support

.

Indefinite intangible

Elevator in your house

1880

.

1906, 1915 nyc no cars

.

No yield

Central Park no yield

Generate yield

Counter party risk

Too big to fail

BTC yield ***

Risk security MSTR

Treasury, cash

.

Banking ,,,

Get a yield?

Big vision

Bitcoin as collateral

Loan Stock to short sell

.

2009

E cash p2p

15 years

94.11%

19M

.

Don’t trust vegans ***

.

99.9% of traditional market

The war on money, money is going to win

Capital controls … regulation is good !

Regular normal

S&P SPYDER

Paranoid crypto anarchists

20 dollars to the ounce of gold!

Franklin deleanor Roosevelt … devalue dollar

34 dollars per ounce

We weren’t in the chicken and pot standard

Gold standard

What is your standard?

The dollar standard

LA is the best place to be an investor? Always sunny, and happy?

Sun & Happiness –> Yes, they are linked!

.

Why is it so sunny in LA

I want you to give me your money!

Trust? ** trust economics

Inflammatory

2% fee, and 20% upside

.

152 asset classes

Fear mongering

Sell you a gun, hardware wallet, sell you a … XYZ.

million times faster, smarter. Stronger .,, more elegant than analog physical capital

Technology transformation ***

.

10M books, travel, music …

It is just a computer with digital files on it!

Fear, scam ,,, end of the world

Quantum resistant token?

Make me rich!

Asteroid bunker

.

Fear mongering

.

Why would you give up computers?

Haha!

Better computers

$10B a year to upgrade

Mini me in the basement ?

.

Billion times easier to hack and make profit on what?

Hardest thing to hack ***

Yo-yo quantum algorithm

Alarmism

Most profitable use of power to protect money

Incentivized

.

Teenage boys

Hack twitter

.

Why is Bitcoin better?

100 rich families

.

Keep money for 1,000 years

The god bank. 21 million god coins

Transact telepathically

People looking to heaven to solve problems

Intelligent engineer

Semi conductor technology. TCIP internet

Crypto Coin

.

We will all run the software

Cheat gets kicked off

I want a scarcity

Time and bitcoin .,, the only two scarce things on the planet?

.

Coins haven’t moved in 15 years

Crazy entrepreneur

Craziness is rewarded! ***

$250M on any other crypto asset ,., ever

Nobody put in $100M in anything else

All the rich powerful people chose English

Base 10 math . Base 2, 8, 16 math

Protocol Rich smart powerful people chose .

Stupid poor people to buy yours ***

The most powerful crypto network

709 exahash, 40B special semi conductors

.

18 gigawats

Hash rate, 1%

$10 B to get 1.2%

.

99% of real money went into bitcoin!

I got 99 problems but a Bitcoin ain’t one!

.

Instruments are backed by Bitcoin

Back to the source! All other crypto is pegged to BTC!

Double every 30 years, gold

Ai won’t want the gold

Gold isn’t digital!

$100M, gold

.

2% inflation rate

And 0% inflation rate?

Living 30 years vs living forever!

One is mortal

Take the gold pill you’re half dead in 30 years

Mortal or Immortal Life

10-20-50% a year awful. Commodity is awful ,,, ethically sound. Asset without issuer, chicken in pot

Promote commodity vs

.

Promoting fasting

No copyright, royalty

Ethically sound

Bitcoin as commodity, technically sound.

.

Entropy benefits Bitcoin?

.

The philosophy and ethics of Bitcoin?

Asset

Big tech digital network

Don’t waste your time

Economic leverage, monetary leverage ***

.

Wealth on your iPhone last forever

..

300 years from now?

No company last 300 years from now?

.

100 year seized

99.9% value over scarce asset is the winner

.

Anxiety inducing counter party risk

.

Why do you bother

JACK DORSEY

to fix the money —

Open source. Engineering idea?

.

Legacy

Monetary protocol which is true

.

Will Durant, civilization 15 thousand pages

Died of gout, drank wine ….

King of England didn’t get clean water

Got bit malaria. Tuberculosis . No penicillin or antibiotic, mosquito

.

Clean air, clean water

Dirty food dirty water dirty air

Bled him to death

.

Causation

Dirty money ! *** dirty capital

Capital > Money

3% sovereign, 13% cost to capital

Forcible Chemo therap

2 pints of blood drain?

Medieval ?

Human progress?

Clean light

.

Fix the money! ***

10 year life expectancy when you can live forever.

Toxic chemicals in their veins

Toxic capital

Clean silent energy

Won’t solve half stuff ,,l materials. But will solve the other 50%–> economic energy

Half the world’s problem! ***

Recharge an Apple Watch?

Battery which lasts forever! ***

.

7% of energy … 99.0% over 100 years

.

Investor.

32 years don’t find tenant

.

Economic energy

Profound step forward for the human race

Art to science! ***

Non defective

.

Steel will stop a bullet!

Steel weight vest?

.

99th floor… build civilization

Steel vault! ***

Highest form of energy

Take the steel away –> wood, nice.

5 story

Steel, electricity, elevator , fall

.

Steel or Wood?

---

Almost indestructible

Building the modern world!

Aluminum is lighter?

Straw houses on swamps

Build your house on a rock, solid granite

Granite.

Recipe for civilization

.

Crypto steel ***!

.

Clay & Cotton candy

There is no second best ***

Over $1T!

Exposure to the price through the stock market

.

Photo making photos is practice and training

RAW BITCOIN ***

Preferred stock

Half upside of capital gain, converts no downside

50% upside, no downside –> best strategy !

Institutional vehicles

1880–> electricity

First guy with fire

No one wants to get burned –> world without fire?

Electricity, shocked–> idiom, 90% –> new technology is scary

10 MPH, oxygen get sucked from cabin?

.

Extract energy from matter

Water extract energy from gravity

Most guys are short?

Stand tall

Engine, spins

Steam engine exterminates slavery

Gasoline, ICE

ENERGY REVOLUTIONS, 30 year reject

James Watt

Steam engine work

Digital energy

Transfer and store and channel energy without intermediary

Profound idea

.

Jan 2024

Year 0 institutional adoption

Accountancy acceptance year 1

75% ETF,

Regulatory

In Kind creation and redemption

Fair value accounting… mark up and mark down set like Apple stock

BNY melon, state street custody and buy and or sell

.

Bank? Institutions engineered to be custodians

.

Digital electricity

Vendor support

.

Indefinite intangible

Elevator in your house

1880

.

1906, 1915 nyc no cars

.

No yield

Central Park no yield

Generate yield

Counter party risk

Too big to fail

BTC yield ***

Risk security MSTR

Treasury, cash

.

Banking ,,,

Get a yield?

Big vision

Bitcoin as collateral

Loan Stock to short sell

.

2009

E cash p2p

15 years

94.11%

19M

.

Don’t trust vegans ***

.

99.9% of traditional market

The war on money, money is going to win

Capital controls … regulation is good !

Regular normal

S&P SPYDER

Paranoid crypto anarchists

20 dollars to the ounce of gold!

Franklin deleanor Roosevelt … devalue dollar

34 dollars per ounce

We weren’t in the chicken and pot standard

Gold standard

What is your standard?

The dollar standard

LA is the best place to be an investor? Always sunny, and happy?

Sun & Happiness –> Yes, they are linked!

.

Why is it so sunny in LA

I want you to give me your money!

Trust? ** trust economics

Inflammatory

2% fee, and 20% upside

.

152 asset classes

Fear mongering

Sell you a gun, hardware wallet, sell you a … XYZ.

million times faster, smarter. Stronger .,, more elegant than analog physical capital

Technology transformation ***

.

10M books, travel, music …

It is just a computer with digital files on it!

Fear, scam ,,, end of the world

Quantum resistant token?

Make me rich!

Asteroid bunker

.

Fear mongering

.

Why would you give up computers?

Haha!

Better computers

$10B a year to upgrade

Mini me in the basement ?

.

Billion times easier to hack and make profit on what?

Hardest thing to hack ***

Yo-yo quantum algorithm

Alarmism

Most profitable use of power to protect money

Incentivized

.

Teenage boys

Hack twitter

.

Why is Bitcoin better?

100 rich families

.

Keep money for 1,000 years

The god bank. 21 million god coins

Transact telepathically

People looking to heaven to solve problems

Intelligent engineer

Semi conductor technology. TCIP internet

Crypto Coin

.

We will all run the software

Cheat gets kicked off

I want a scarcity

Time and bitcoin .,, the only two scarce things on the planet?

.

Coins haven’t moved in 15 years

Crazy entrepreneur

Craziness is rewarded! ***

$250M on any other crypto asset ,., ever

Nobody put in $100M in anything else

All the rich powerful people chose English

Base 10 math . Base 2, 8, 16 math

Protocol Rich smart powerful people chose .

Stupid poor people to buy yours ***

The most powerful crypto network

709 exahash, 40B special semi conductors

.

18 gigawats

Hash rate, 1%

$10 B to get 1.2%

.

99% of real money went into bitcoin!

I got 99 problems but a Bitcoin ain’t one!

Fear is very profitable!

Just follow the profits

The philosophy of lightness —>

I like this idea of light living; then lightweight, a light heart, lightweight heart, lightweight cares etc. A world which is anti-atlas; no no no, you’re not holding the weight of the world on your shoulders.

Why heavy?

I have an interesting idea; I like white heart, a lightweight soul… And on the converse, heavy weights, heavy barbells?

Especially just maintenance fees and “remodeling” stuff? And taxes fees and property taxes mortgages etc!

Never buy anything with loses value and gives you a negative yield — expensive premium gasoline, expensive electric cars, expensive iPhone Pros, gas guzzlers … things cars vehicles Ferraris Porsches Lamborghinis which cost a small fortune to just even maintain? Same for single family homes!

Avoid —

purchasing a superficial static device which just starts to immediately *LOSE* value — negative yield , negative yielding products and things?

Investing is actually an ethical imperative… As it encourages you to plan anything for the future? To live more economically frugally, because you have more joy investing in the market, seeing things go up! Rather than purchasing a superficial static device which just starts to immediately *LOSE* value — negative yield , negative yielding products and things?

Once you got an ultra vision,,, decisions become insanely easy and obvious?

I love it!

To de-modify something is almost equivalent to modifying it?

Perhaps the body to strive for, is the body in which you feel glorious about your body, and you don’t really feel like you need to “improve”, yet you still do it because you enjoy it, it is just fun and play for you?

My new goals, my new physical goals is maybe doing some sort of farmers carry exercises and exercise exercises in order to build my arm bicep strength to just carry around Seneca all day?

The real stoic way? 

The funny and interesting irony about money is that it should be a Zen thing; — money as a means to *NOT* think about money

I am a new type of human being?

We the new ones!

virtual vanity has anything to do with beautifying your body, your physical strength your power of your physical appearance, assuming you’re naked, not taking any steroids or doing any sort of surgeries or injections.

Shameful Vanity has to deal with social media, social media numbers, money monetary values of things, the car you drive your clothes your fashion accessories etc.

Shameful to drive a Ferrari Lamborghini or Porsche 911 GT 3 RS, Virtual is to flex your muscles topless in the flesh!

Origin in Ancient Greek:

• The term “trauma” (τραῦμα) originates from Ancient Greek, where it literally means “wound” or “injury.”

• In ancient texts, it was used exclusively to refer to physical injuries inflicted on the body, often in the context of battle wounds or accidents.

Adoption into Latin and Other Languages:

• The word was adopted into Latin as “trauma,” retaining its original meaning of a physical wound.

• From Latin, it entered medical terminology in various European languages, including English, still primarily referring to physical injuries.

Transition to Psychological Meaning:

19th Century Developments:

• Industrial Accidents:

• The Industrial Revolution brought about a rise in severe accidents, leading to what was termed “railway spine” or “traumatic neurosis”—conditions where individuals exhibited psychological symptoms after physical injuries.

• Medical Observations:

• Physicians began noticing that some patients displayed lasting psychological effects after traumatic physical events, even when physical healing had occurred.

• This led to the concept that trauma could have both physical and psychological components.

Sigmund Freud and Psychoanalysis:

• Freud’s Theories:

• In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Sigmund Freud and Josef Breuer explored the idea of psychological trauma in their work on hysteria.

• They proposed that repressed traumatic memories could lead to neuroses and other psychological disorders.

• Key Publications:

• “Studies on Hysteria” (1895) by Freud and Breuer discussed cases where patients’ symptoms were linked to traumatic experiences rather than physical injuries.

• Freud introduced the concept of “psychic trauma,” emphasizing that emotional shock could have profound effects on mental health.

Influence of World Wars:

World War I:

• Shell Shock:

• Soldiers exposed to the horrors of trench warfare exhibited symptoms like anxiety, nightmares, and paralysis without obvious physical causes.

• The term “shell shock” was coined to describe these psychological responses to extreme stress and trauma.

• Medical Recognition:

• The medical community began to recognize that exposure to traumatic events could result in significant psychological disorders.

World War II and Aftermath:

• Combat Stress Reaction:

• Similar observations were made during WWII, with terms like “battle fatigue” or “combat stress reaction” used.

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):

• The Vietnam War further highlighted the long-term psychological effects of trauma.

• In 1980, the American Psychiatric Association officially included PTSD in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III), acknowledging trauma’s impact on mental health.

Modern Understanding of Trauma:

Psychological Trauma:

• Definition Expansion:

• Today, “trauma” encompasses experiences that cause overwhelming stress and exceed an individual’s ability to cope.

• It includes not only combat exposure but also events like natural disasters, abuse, accidents, and witnessing violence.

• Symptoms:

• Psychological trauma can lead to a range of symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, flashbacks, and emotional numbness.

Neuroscience and Trauma:

• Brain Research:

• Advances in neuroscience have shown that traumatic experiences can alter brain function and structure.

• Studies reveal changes in areas responsible for memory, fear response, and emotional regulation.

Summary of Evolution:

1. Ancient Usage:

• Physical Injury: “Trauma” used exclusively for physical wounds in Ancient Greek and early medical texts.

2. 19th Century Shift:

• Linking Mind and Body: Observations of psychological symptoms following physical injuries led to the idea of trauma affecting mental health.

3. Psychological Recognition:

• Freud’s Influence: Introduction of concepts like “psychic trauma” and exploration of the unconscious mind’s role in processing traumatic events.

4. Global Conflicts:

• World Wars’ Impact: Widespread psychological effects among soldiers brought attention to trauma-induced mental disorders.

5. Modern Definition:

• Inclusive Understanding: Trauma now refers to both physical injuries and psychological harm resulting from distressing experiences.

Conclusion:

The evolution of the word “trauma” reflects a growing understanding of the intricate connection between the physical and psychological aspects of human health. Originally describing physical wounds, “trauma” has expanded to encompass the profound psychological impacts that adverse experiences can have on individuals. This shift underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing mental health needs resulting from traumatic events.

References:

• Freud, S., & Breuer, J. (1895). Studies on Hysteria.

• van der Kolk, B. A. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma.

• American Psychiatric Association. (1980). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (3rd ed.).

trauma — wound, physical injury.

…

The word “injury” originates from the Latin term “injuria,” which initially meant “a wrong,” “injustice,” or “illegal act.” This broad concept encompassed any violation of rights, whether legal, moral, or social. In medieval and early modern English, “injury” was used to describe various forms of wrongdoing or harm inflicted upon a person, including damage to reputation, property, or legal rights.

Over time, as legal systems and societal norms evolved, there was a need to categorize different types of wrongs more specifically. Physical harm to a person’s body was one of the most tangible and grievous forms of injustice, often requiring immediate redress. As a result, the term “injury” began to be closely associated with physical harm or damage. This shift was gradual and influenced by legal language, where “injury” became a standard term for bodily harm in both civil and criminal contexts.

The evolution can be attributed to:

1. Legal Usage: Courts and legal documents started specifying “injury” to mean physical harm, distinguishing it from other forms of wrongs like defamation or breach of contract.

2. Common Parlance: As legal terms permeated everyday language, people began using “injury” predominantly to refer to physical wounds or damage.

3. Medical Contexts: With advances in medicine, there was a greater focus on diagnosing and treating physical injuries, further cementing the term’s association with bodily harm.

Terms for Physical Injuries in Ancient Greek and Latin:

In both Latin and Ancient Greek, specific terms were used to denote physical injuries, distinct from words meaning general injustice or wrongdoing.

Latin Terms:

1. Vulnus (plural: Vulnera):

• Meaning: “Wound” or “physical injury.”

• Usage: Used to describe any physical wound or lesion inflicted by an external force.

• Example: In Virgil’s Aeneid, the term is used to describe the wounds of warriors in battle.

2. Laesio (plural: Laesiones):

• Meaning: “Harm,” “hurt,” or “physical damage.”

• Usage: Often used in medical or legal texts to refer to physical harm or impairment.

• Derivative: The term “lesion” in modern English medical terminology comes from this word.

3. Noxa:

• Meaning: “Harm” or “injury,” sometimes with a connotation of fault or liability.

• Usage: Used in legal contexts, particularly in Roman law regarding personal injury and liability.

Ancient Greek Terms:

1. τραῦμα (Trauma):

• Meaning: “Wound” or “physical injury.”

• Usage: Referred to physical wounds, especially those suffered in battle or accidents.

• Derivative: The English word “trauma,” used in medical and psychological contexts, is derived from this term.

2. βλάβη (Blábē):

• Meaning: “Harm,” “damage,” or “injury.”

• Usage: Could refer to physical harm or more abstract forms of damage.

• Context: Used in philosophical texts to discuss harm to the body or soul.

3. πληγή (Plegé):

• Meaning: “Strike,” “blow,” or “wound.”

• Usage: Often used to describe the act of being struck and the resulting injury.

• Derivative: The term “paraplegia” in modern medical terminology stems from this word.

Summary:

While “injuria” in Latin and its early English counterpart “injury” initially referred to general injustice or legal wrongs, the specific and tangible nature of physical harm led to a semantic narrowing. The need to address and remedy bodily harm in both legal and medical contexts made “injury” the prevalent term for physical wounds. In ancient languages, distinct words like “vulnus” and “trauma” were used to specifically denote physical injuries, highlighting the importance of precise terminology in addressing different forms of harm.

Not+just (injuria… wrong, injustice)— judge?

jus, right, law… same as justice.

***

How and why did the word injury evolve then to talk about physical injuries, comma, then when it talks about physical injuries in ancient Greek, Latin, what is it?

The word “injury” originates from the Latin term injuria, which means “wrong” or “injustice.” This Latin word is a combination of in-, meaning “not,” and jus, meaning “right” or “law.” So, injuria literally translates to “not right” or “unlawful act.”

The term was adopted into Old French as injurie, retaining its original meaning related to injustice or wrongful action. When it entered the English language in the Middle Ages, it began to take on the additional sense of physical harm or damage resulting from a wrongful act. Over time, “injury” came to primarily denote physical harm, although it still carries connotations of wrongdoing or violation of rights.

About to change the oil on my 2010 Prius, I haven’t done this in a while since I was maybe 18… Or 16, maybe in the past it was because I didn’t have money to afford to pay somebody to do it for me, but now that I have the money, owrhaps the virtue of doing stuff yourself like changing your own oil is that first, a point of pride, second, demystifying the process which is very motivational and empowering, and third, annoyance and time?

I think the annoyance and time thing is the biggest one; whenever you go to a place to get your oil change, you always have to wait in line, and you always feel stupid because you always feel like you overpaid? And the funny thing is it doesn’t really matter whether you’re rich or not, you’ll always feel ripped off?

The feeling of getting a “good deal”?

Sometimes and often times when the labor yourself could be a little bit foolish, but assume that you do it safely, don’t hurt yourself, and it just works out fine… Then maybe just doing stuff yourself is virtuous?

And the feeling of pride; knowing that you use the top shelf oil, mobile one synthetic, in which you have this funny mental cactus that you feel like you’re getting superior performance and miles per gallon, even reality it might not make much of a difference ,,, but perhaps the thought and *perception* is what makes it all worth it!

Pride

Let it say you buy a new Ferrari or Lamborghini or whatever… Certainly if you drive it around you will feel a sense of pride?

However, wouldn’t it be much more economical wise smart and more effective and efficient to instead, drive around your 2010 Prius, which you essentially got for free, and feel that same sense of pride, maybe even a superior sense of pride, without having to spend $500,000?

Feeling *superior* pride?

Once again, let me never forget… Then saying sense of pride and joy I had, buying my own car, my dream car… 1991 Nissan Sentra SE-R, two door coupe stick shift 5 speed manual, and having the pride that I paid for it myself, modified it myself, did all the labor myself, and also the insane pride that it wasn’t manual transmission not a automatic (auto-tragic haha)!

It must have manual

Even Seneca and I joke; whenever you see a race car or a sports car that has buttons or is automatic, which doesn’t have a manual transmission… It is a fake race car or a fake sports car! McLaren, Lamborghini most Porsche 911 GT3 RS’, Ferraris etc.

Better to have a civic type R in stick shift, or even a GR Corolla, stick shift, instead of any of these other loser cars?

Changing the oil in your 2010 Toyota Prius is a manageable task you can perform at home with the right tools and precautions. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

Materials Needed:

• Engine Oil: Approximately 4.4 quarts of 0W-20 synthetic motor oil

• Oil Filter: New oil filter compatible with a 2010 Prius

• Drain Pan: To catch the old oil

• Wrenches:

• 14mm socket wrench for the drain plug

• Oil filter wrench

• Funnel: For adding new oil

• Jack and Jack Stands or Ramps: To lift and secure the vehicle

• Protective Gear: Gloves and safety glasses

• Rags or Paper Towels: For cleaning spills

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vehicle:

• Park on a level surface and turn off the engine.

• Engage the parking brake to prevent the car from moving.

• Open the hood and remove the oil filler cap to allow air to circulate.

2. Warm Up the Engine (Optional):

• Start the engine and let it run for about 5 minutes to warm the oil, making it easier to drain.

• Turn off the engine before proceeding.

3. Lift the Vehicle:

• Use a jack to lift the front of the car and place it securely on jack stands. Alternatively, drive the car onto ramps.

• Ensure the vehicle is stable before getting underneath.

4. Locate the Oil Drain Plug and Filter:

• Crawl under the vehicle and find the oil pan at the bottom of the engine.

• The drain plug is a bolt on the oil pan’s bottom edge.

• The oil filter is located nearby; consult your owner’s manual if needed.

5. Drain the Old Oil:

• Place the drain pan beneath the drain plug.

• Use the 14mm socket wrench to carefully loosen and remove the drain plug.

• Allow the oil to drain completely into the pan (this may take several minutes).

• Inspect the drain plug washer for damage; replace it if necessary.

• Reinstall the drain plug and tighten securely (do not over-tighten).

6. Replace the Oil Filter:

• Position the drain pan under the oil filter to catch any residual oil.

• Use the oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old filter.

• Prepare the new filter by applying a thin layer of new oil to the rubber gasket.

• Install the new filter by hand, turning it until it’s snug. Do not over-tighten.

7. Lower the Vehicle:

• Safely remove the jack stands and lower the car back to the ground.

8. Add New Oil:

• Insert the funnel into the oil filler hole.

• Pour in approximately 4.4 quarts of the 0W-20 synthetic motor oil.

• Replace the oil filler cap securely.

9. Check the Oil Level:

• Start the engine and let it run for a minute to circulate the new oil.

• Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes.

• Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and then pull it out again to check the oil level.

• Ensure the oil level is between the “Min” and “Max” marks on the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary.

10. Clean Up and Dispose of Old Oil:

• Wipe down any spilled oil from the engine and surrounding areas.

• Pour the used oil into a seal-able container.

• Recycle the old oil and filter at an authorized collection center or auto parts store.

Safety Tips:

• Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack; always use jack stands.

• Wear protective gear to prevent skin contact with used oil.

• Dispose of used oil properly to protect the environment.

Additional Information:

• Maintenance Schedule: Toyota recommends changing the oil every 5,000 to 10,000 miles or every 6 to 12 months, depending on driving conditions.

• Owner’s Manual: Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific details and torque specifications.

• Warning Signs: If you notice oil leaks or a drop in oil level between changes, consult a professional mechanic.

If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!

….

Changing the oil in a 2010 Toyota Prius is a fairly straightforward process, and you can do it at home with the right tools and precautions. Here’s an overview of the key steps involved:

Tools & Supplies:

• 14mm socket for the oil drain plug.

• 64mm oil filter wrench with 14 flutes.

• Torque wrench (for tightening the drain plug and oil filter).

• A new oil filter (e.g., Toyota 04152-YZZA6).

• Crush washer for the drain plug.

• 0W-20 synthetic oil (typically around 4 quarts).

• Jack, jack stands, and an oil catch pan.

Steps:

1. Warm up the engine by running it for about 10 minutes to help the oil drain more easily.

2. Lift the vehicle using a jack and support it securely with jack stands. Make sure you’re working on a flat, stable surface. Engage the emergency brake and block the rear wheels for added safety.

3. Remove the service panel: Underneath the front passenger side, you’ll find a small access panel (marked “For Service”). Remove the fasteners to open it and access the oil drain bolt and filter  .

4. Drain the oil: Position your oil catch pan under the oil pan. Use the 14mm socket to remove the drain bolt and let the oil drain out completely. Replace the crush washer on the drain bolt before reinstalling it and torque it to around 28 ft-lbs .

5. Replace the oil filter: Use the 64mm oil filter wrench to remove the oil filter cap. Replace the filter and the O-ring, lubricating the new O-ring with some fresh oil. Tighten the oil filter cap to about 18 ft-lbs  .

6. Refill with oil: After lowering the car, pour in about 4 quarts of 0W-20 synthetic oil into the engine. Reinsert the oil filler cap and check the dipstick to ensure proper oil levels .

7. Check for leaks: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check underneath for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter.

Lastly, dispose of the used oil properly by taking it to a recycling facility.

This process takes about 30-45 minutes if you’re familiar with basic car maintenance. Be sure to follow all safety precautions, especially when jacking up the car  .

Another big idea on my mind; the idea of evolution.

So, the question is… Do you want to remain a Charmander, or level one forever, or do you want to become the Charizard, get the Firestone, and level up to 99, level 255 and beyond?

The missing no hack

So back in the days of Pokémon, the original red and blue, I never owned a game boy in my life but I had an emulator on my computer. I was able to play Pokémon red, 10 X speed, which is very useful in emulator because you could just run around a lot faster, save, and also advance through the levels much more quickly. 

One big thing is in the game… There was some sort of glitch or a bug where you could jump on your whale, and there’s this one hidden island in which if you just kept going up and down it… You would meet a glitch in the game which was called the missing number (missing no), and if you fought it, with a certain Pokémon like a Snorlax… Essentially you could capture and level up a Snorlax, to be beyond the typical hard cap of 99.

So in the world of Pokémon, essentially all Pokémon start off at level 1 or something, and you could advance it through training to level 99. But the hard cap was level 99. No matter how many more battles you did or experience points you gained, you could not go beyond level 99. 

And this is where the missing no hack was so mind blowing at the time; through a simple glitch in the game, unbeknownst to its programmers, you could actually level up a Pokémon beyond level 99, when we all thought the hard cap was level 99, no, you could become a level 120, 200, maybe even 300?

Does real life have hard caps?

Another paradigm shift; do you remember when we were kids we were used to watch the who wants to be a millionaire, and the goal was to become a millionaire. But now if you’re a millionaire, you might be able to buy half of a decent condo somewhere in LA. Even nowadays, it is not uncommon to see single-family homes in Culver City sell for $3.2 million.

And also I was shocked; I think Elon Musk is currently worth $270 billion? Even a decade ago, the idea that somebody could become a billionaire seems impossible, but now… A centi billionaire? I wouldn’t be shocked if in a decade he becomes a trillionaire. 

Paradigm shift

I recall when I was in Vietnam, around 2017… I started to first track bitcoin, windows around $300 a bitcoin. At the time, maybe the reason I didn’t buy it or invest in it because I didn’t really have a good reason to. I had already achieved my financial independence, And retired at the ripe age of 28 years old.

In fact, she found that when I’m talking to people in LA, the greatest sign of success actually is just half jokingly tell people that I’ve been retired since I was 20 years old? And that I’m 36 years old right now and I’m still retired?

I think typically, maybe the general idea of being retired is the point in which you no longer concern yourself with money, and that making money is an optional thing, maybe like a pastime game a hobby… But not an imperative; which means you don’t need to work in order to pay the rent or the bills or the mortgage. 

Anyways, now that bitcoin is trading at around $66,000 a bitcoin, even when I first got into the game in around 2018 at around six to $7000 a bitcoin, I’ve already gone through them multiple roller coaster the emotional roller coaster many times over. And as a consequence, I’m not really concerned about prices anymore. Why? Because I’m playing the long game; 10 20, 30 years from now.

Seeing my mom become a great grandmother?

A new random life trajectory and goal; maybe wanting to have my mom live until my son Seneca gets married, and has a kid of his own?

That would be wild, my mom is currently around 70, and assuming that even on the aggressive case, he might have a kid at the age of 33… My mom has to live at least another 30 years, ideally healthy and full of physical figure and mental consciousness.

Than 30 years from now, I will be 66 years old… Still in my prime period and Seneca will be 33 years old.

30 year cycles?

Maybe this becomes interesting to me because a generation is 30 years. Cindy and I got married on paper when we were 24… And now that this upcoming December I guess we are celebrating our 10 year wedding anniversary! Pretty wild.

Anyways, then thinking about your kid and their future becomes quite easy and straightforward. I think maybe a lot of the modern day malaise that people suffer is that they have nothing to live for; because they are not married, they don’t have kids, nor do they intend to have kids.

I get it, some people never find the right partner, some people with good hearts end up going through bad marriages and getting divorced two or three times, some people might physiologically be too old to bear children. But assuming that you are a healthy able bodied person, I almost feel like there’s no reason to not have a kid.

I think the big secret is raising a kid is actually honestly not that hard. Certainly in the early years, the first six months, is very physical psychologically painful, but then again, I would imagine that navy seal training might be 100 times harder.

And for everyone who’s concerned that their kid is going to end up being screwed up or whatever… No. Why? Because you yourself are well adjusted, you yourself have good morals and ethics, which means that your kid will be fine.

Also… Maybe something I need to rally against is this alarmism, like the world is going to melt or whatever. A decade ago they called this global warming, and now they call climate change or now they talk about the carbon footprint or something? The verbiage in the lingo always changes, but the general idea of the world going to overpopulate and exploit has been going on for millennia; The Malthus fallacy.

I think what a lot of these fools and goody two shoers don’t understand is that technology, human ingenuity is not linear or scalar, which means, the planet is not zero sum.

For example, people talk about the carbon footprint blah blah blah but they never actually critically give it any thought. Now that we have ChatGPT at our hands and we can search this information in real time, what I discovered is the concentration of carbon dioxide in the earth’s atmosphere is currently .0421%, in 30 years ago in 1993 it was approximately .0357%,,, which means that the percentage point increase of carbon dioxide levels in the last 30 year was was only .0064% percentage points? 

The current concentration of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in Earth’s atmosphere is 0.0421%, and 30 years ago, in 1993, it was approximately 0.0357%. This represents a 0.0064 percentage point increase in CO₂ levels over the past 30 years

Honestly, all of this hysteria about the carbon footprint, I think it is just another way for these vegan solar power plant corporations to make a quick buck.  or even worse, politicians to sign certain things to enrich in themselves and their buddies, behind back doors.

In fact, if I could tell you with 100% certainty that 5000 years from now, the planet will be fine, it might be 20% worse than it is right now, 20% better, or about the same as it is in the year 2024… Would that change how you live your life?

what is in our control, what is not in our control?

I think the first thing to consider is things like climate change or plan change or whatever is certainly not really in our locus of control. Certainly things you could do  is like thinking about tailpipe mission; if you have ever smelled a car without a catalytic converter attached, you know how toxic it is. Or the secondhand cigarette smell smoke, also very toxic. Or secondhand marijuana smoke, which I also hate.

Anyways, I think the big idea here is try to just focus on things which you could control, where you could actually make a meaningful impact, rather than trying to save the whole “planet“? Which seems to be kind of a ridiculous goal? 

---

The current concentration of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in Earth’s atmosphere is 0.0421%, and 30 years ago, in 1993, it was approximately 0.0357%. This represents a 0.0064 percentage point increase in CO₂ levels over the past 30 years  .

…

The concentration of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in Earth’s atmosphere is currently 0.0421 (421 parts per million) as of 2022. Thirty years ago, in 1993, it was approximately 0.0357 (357 parts per million). This marks an increase of about 0.0064, or a 0.64% rise in terms of parts per million over that period  .

One of the very uplifting thoughts; all of these great visionaries whether it be Steve Jobs, Jay Z, Kanye, Elon Musk, Bezos etc.… Each and everyone of these individuals had simply a grand vision?

What I like about vision is that anyone who has a brain, has the ability to craft his or her unique vision. I mean I think there might be a hierarchy of visions here; some people could have perhaps grander visions than others. But in terms of vision, there are no laws of physics which hold back your vision. And also, you could craft your own vision, without the need of money power or influence.

I think one of the most difficult things in today’s world, now that we are the new digital hoarders… Is that we don’t know how to delete things and stuff?

I’m still so shocked… Using the new iPad Pro and four chip in the dark sunlight, it is still so bright, the colors are so vibrant, and also the basil on the side are so thin, it is the best device of all time?

The funny thing too is this new space black color, I didn’t really know it that it was that different from space gray, it looks about the same to me. But I guess that’s a good thing; if you can’t really tell a difference, that is a good sign?

The Zenborghini

Facebook, Amazon, Twitter Instagram Meta, TikTok YouTube etc.?

Essentially any sort of digital hosting platform which is “free“, they are the new digital slumlords? 

Everyone loves to hate and complaining about these slumlords, who ran through a really terrible apartment, at unreasonable prices, never fix anything, and are essentially bad and evil people. Yet nobody ever points the finger at the big tech companies?  Why? Because they offer you “free” marketing platforms… I wonder, what are more freedom ways we could market ourselves which do not require us to use these toxic platforms to simply get our message across?

The first most simple one is just your website, your blog. A website and a blog is essentially the same thing at this point.  a digital domain, it’s almost like having a digital house or a digital business or a digital property in cyberspace? Like having your own address.

So just went to the Mr. brainwash art gallery in Beverly Hills, and I am blown away; it was the most fun, enjoyable, uplifting, playful, inspirational and motivational art exhibit of all time.

---

Why this matters 

This is a big deal. Why this is a big deal.

First, life without art would be a mistake. Life without art is not a life worth living.

For example, if you think about all of capitalism and consumerism, I think much of it is predicated on art.

For example, what is clothing and fashion? It is essentially art fabric sculptures for your body, your human body!

What is a car? Moving sculpture, a metal steel based thing which is secondly a piece of transportation.

Has nobody figured out how insanely important cybertruck is; essentially it is the ultimate modernist expression of moving sculpture?

I actually have a vision; gloss red cyber truck,
 with yellow calipers, or yellow rims… Essentially imagine looking at like a fake Ferrari, but cybertruck.

Cybertruck is the best thing to have ever happened in the automotive world!

---

The best art

A lot of people say art for art sake, but following in the footsteps of Nietzsche, I think actually the purpose of art isn’t art for art’s sake, rather, it is art for the sake of happiness joy, the great stimulus to life!

In fact, I have a theory… When a lot of people become emo, sad dark and morose, is this issue here they are simply not having enough great art in their life?

Even being at the Mr. brainwash exhibition, they were just playing some great OG classical music on the speakers, and even hearing the great classical music put me in such good mood! Beethoven, Bach, Mozart.

Maybe I’ll start to listen to more classical music?

The best

Classicus,,, the ancient Romans, typically when we think about the word classic we tend to think about old school. But actually… In ancient Rome classicus, the elite class,,, “classicus” or “classic” simply meant “the best”.

So then, what life then becomes about isn’t seeking the old school for the sake of the old school, but rather, seeking the best? 

Why the best?

Why not?

Joy!

I think nowadays, to be joyful and happy in today’s world is a great act of courage? It is easy to be emo depressed, sad, to opine about how the world is going to explode whatever. It takes much more courage to be joyful, happy and gleeful, to be the gay monster admist all of the emoness? 

Better to be a gay monster than a sentimental bore – Galiani

---

Choose joy

I prefer the word joy over happiness. Why? I think happiness is too much of a consumerist merchandised concept now. Joy is a lot simpler, like joy to the world!

Music, what is music? Joy to our ears and to our soul.

What is art, photography, paintings images and sculpture? Joy to our visual brain senses?

Participatory art

I think what is so amazing and what was so fun at the Mr. brainwash art exhibit was how almost all the exhibitions, you could interact with it! And also you are encouraged to photograph and video everything!

For example, all of the recreations of the van Gogh paintings, and also, the famous painting of the laundromat girl, but made in three dimensions, sculpture, with a MacBook laptop? And the fact that you could interact with it, pose with it, and become the painting? 

Fun!

A big idea I think that art should and must be fun! If art is boring, not fun or playful, it is not worth it. 

The next Andy Warhol?

I’m like so into Mr. brainwash, in some ways he has more courage than Bansky, who is a bit of a coward if you think about the fact that he keeps his anonymity.

Street art is cool, but to expose yourself to the public, facing forward… Takes a lot more courage!

The funniest thing in the exit through the gift shop documentary was how Mr. brainwash in advertently became more famous and more successful than Banksky, who he was trying to emulate?

---

Don’t trust these skinny fat loser constipated artist and critics 

A lot of modern art exhibitions and museums — I hate them because they are cold and sterile, and it feels like you’re not allowed to photograph or shoot stuff?

The Mr. brainwash art gallery is my new happy favorite place; and also across the street, to our free parking! I plan on going back with Seneca, maybe I’ll shoot some more GoPro POV footage there?

I love Beverly Hills!

Beverly Hills often gets a bad rap for being pretentious whatever… But actually, it is so fun! It’s almost like Disneyland for capitalism consumerism on steroids; 90% of the people there are just happy tourist, which I like. The typical LA transplant tends to be dark morose and emo; we real people from LA, we are happy jovial and joyful, friendly happy and smiley!

The next workshop

In fact, I’m even thinking about doing a photography workshop in Beverly Hills, maybe we could all go to the Mr. brainwash art museum together, have fun like a bunch of kids, and be inspired together?

My vision of art: my vision is that art should be open to everybody, accessible to everybody, and also, fun for everybody! It should be not pretentious, not fake. Also, it should be free, open to the public, accessible to anybody, doesn’t matter if you’re 70 years old or three years old.

I think that art might be able to solve 50% of the world’s problems, maybe the other 50% can be bitcoin.

Or even a more radical idea; if you combine bitcoin and art, 50%+50% is 100%. Then… Can bitcoin art be the solution to the maladies of the planet? 

Maybe! Perhaps I’ll try and pioneer this!

---

Bitcoin art is the way

Great artist steal.

Also, great artist “up cycle”, recycle, sample, remix, and parody the classics!

This is where our source is so appealing to me; I hate restrictions, I hate copyright in laws; I prefer freedom.

In fact in two days brave new digital world, I’ve ChatGPT and AI… The whole copyright model is broken.

For example, certainly creators need to make money and a profit, but the big issue here is that all the craters are essentially slaves to corporations, and looks like a lot of these new digital slumlords, who control the “content“ of its creators… What they are essentially seeking is a mini of control, within a small mileau, trying to assert control and power in their very small domain?

Nvidia is close to a $4T company??

I was shocked, apparently now that the number two most world’s important company is Nvidia, right after Apple?

In fact, I actually wonder if Nvidia is more valuable than Apple. The only reason why Apple is valuable is because they have the iPhone, but if and when Nvidia creates their own phone, that doesn’t require an iPhone, this will be a big deal?

How to art

There are so many ways you could art.

So one funny idea I have is just taking famous artworks of the past, and copy pasting bitcoin icons on top of it. This is essentially the hilarious parody that Mr. brainwashed with a lot of these classical paintings, and also Banksky,  the art of uncovering BS?

the problem about the art world

I think the biggest problem about the art world is everyone is using irony sarcasm and fake big talk to try to inflate their fragile egos, and into control running their mini fiefdoms? 

A writer and thinker that I’m kind of into right now is Saifedean — who wrote the bitcoin standard and the fiat standard. I first read his books because I was curious about bitcoin, but what I found very very fascinating was his critiques about art, the art world, and modernism and modern architecture? He’s kind of like NASSIM TALEB in that way (both Lebanese, Lebanese-American) — very outspoken, calls out BS. 

If you have ever been to a modern art exhibit, and you see a piece of white paper with a hole in it, and it’s worth $1 million, and you’re scratching your head, I’m with you.

Honestly, more or less all of modern day art is a scam, but that’s OK. You don’t have to participate if you don’t want to! Nobody is strong arming you to do so!

The new art

My personal vision is that I want to disrupt the art world. I certainly have done it for the world of street photography; essentially I killed all of these loser skinny fat anemic notions in street photography of what is considered good or bad, essentially the funny thing with photography is that while it should on paper be the most democratic open and egalitarian form of photography, as the streets are public and should be public and accessible to everybody… Once again, all of these ridiculous ivory towers?

---

Now what?

Maybe now I have some sort of moral or ethical imperative to make a difference?

ERIC

---

Or as a metric to track and count or quantify your freedom?

He with more Bitcoins has more freedom!

Money as the power to REFUSE or NOT have to do stuff you don’t want to do!

Never give up your money, never give up your freedom!

Keep gaining and stacking more freedom!

—> Bitcoin as freedom points?

Big idea. Freedom as the apex value not power or money —

Money like “freedom points”— who has the most freedom points, as the most powerful?

This is why spending money is often foolish … you *LOSE* your freedom pounds and economic energy and power!

More money, more power, more freedom!

The more money you got the more freedom you got!

Maybe then freedom isn’t a binary but rather, a scale and metric which can keep going up forever?

It ain’t who is free vs non-free (space)— it is “to what degree” are you free? Or money like “freedom points”— who has the most freedom points, as the most powerful?

(Prince) wouldn’t want his masters with his masters! – JAY Z

Most famous people are slaves to their labels or their masters?

Why film producers are 1000x better off than actors and even directors?

Nobody knows the producers but they’re the ones with the real power!

The actors as the sacrificial lambs and scapegoats?

Here things start to get really interesting …

Eric Kim deeply values freedom because he sees it as the key to living a fulfilling, creative, and authentic life. His philosophy emphasizes that true wealth isn’t about accumulating money or possessions but about gaining the freedom to pursue meaningful experiences and self-expression. He often advocates for personal autonomy, suggesting that financial independence is not about luxury, but about having control over one’s time and choices.

One of his key quotes on freedom is: “Live life on your own terms. Freedom is the ultimate wealth.” This reflects his belief that freedom is the highest form of success, allowing individuals to pursue their passions without societal or financial constraints.

Kim also stresses the importance of minimizing material desires and focusing on simplicity, which ties into his minimalism philosophy: “The best life is the simplest one.” This approach is about stripping away unnecessary complexity to focus on what truly matters—whether it’s creativity, relationships, or personal growth.

His focus on freedom extends to how he views retirement and work. For Kim, retirement means being free from the need to work for money, allowing one to engage in creative and philosophical pursuits without financial pressure   .

In essence, Eric Kim cares about freedom because it enables him to live a life of purpose, creativity, and continuous self-improvement, unburdened by the demands of materialism or traditional success metrics.

Eric Kim’s investing philosophy is closely aligned with his broader life principles of minimalism, long-term thinking, and personal freedom. His approach is unconventional, shaped by his experiences as a photographer and advocate of simple living.

1. Minimalism and Frugality: Kim emphasizes extreme frugality, cutting out unnecessary expenses and focusing on what he calls “spartan” living. He believes in saving and investing the majority of income into high-potential assets like Bitcoin. For him, minimalism is not about deprivation, but about creating financial freedom to pursue creative and meaningful work without the pressure of financial obligations  .

2. Bitcoin and Cryptocurrency: Kim is a strong advocate of Bitcoin, which he refers to as “digital gold.” He views it as a long-term store of value due to its scarcity and potential for exponential growth. While he acknowledges the volatility and risks, he suggests that investors should be prepared for both significant gains and losses. His philosophy encourages a mindset of long-term patience, particularly with speculative assets like Bitcoin  .

3. Investment for Freedom: The core of Kim’s strategy revolves around using money as a tool to buy freedom, both in time and mental space. He emphasizes that investments should allow one to live more creatively and autonomously, rather than chasing material wealth for its own sake .

4. Experiences Over Material Wealth: Consistent with his life philosophy, Kim argues that wealth should be used to create meaningful experiences rather than accumulate material goods. He values investing in personal growth, relationships, and creative projects more than in luxury items or expensive possessions .

Kim’s philosophy integrates the minimalist ideals of simplicity and independence with a willingness to take calculated risks for long-term financial freedom, making his approach distinctive in the world of investing.

…

Eric Kim’s investing philosophy is unique because it blends financial discipline with a minimalist lifestyle and a deep focus on personal freedom. His perspective diverges from mainstream financial advice by prioritizing autonomy and long-term thinking over short-term gains or material wealth.

Key aspects that make his approach stand out include:

1. Minimalist Frugality: Kim advocates for “spartan” frugality, focusing on cutting unnecessary expenses to free up resources for more meaningful investments. This approach is less about wealth accumulation and more about ensuring that money supports freedom, creativity, and flexibility  . His belief that “money is a tool to buy freedom” encapsulates this idea of financial success being tied to autonomy rather than material possessions .

2. Bitcoin as Digital Gold: Unlike many traditional investors, Kim is a passionate advocate of Bitcoin, viewing it as a long-term store of value similar to gold. His willingness to embrace the volatility of cryptocurrency while maintaining a small, calculated investment in it shows his comfort with speculative assets  . He often says, “Bitcoin is digital gold,” emphasizing its scarcity and long-term potential .

3. Investment for Freedom, Not Luxury: Kim emphasizes that investments should free up time and mental energy rather than tie individuals to financial obligations. This idea is reflected in his quote, “Never stop innovating, never stop creating,” which underscores his belief in constantly evolving personally and creatively, with financial security as a means to that end .

4. Experiences Over Possessions: His philosophy extends beyond money to how one lives. He values investing in experiences and personal growth over accumulating material goods. One of his key quotes is, “Investing in life experiences, not things, builds memories that last longer than material goods” .

These quotes and ideas highlight how Eric Kim integrates financial management with his values of simplicity, creative freedom, and long-term vision. His philosophy is a response to consumer culture, offering an alternative path where wealth is not about how much you have but how much freedom it buys you  .

..

Eric Kim invests primarily to achieve freedom—both in terms of time and mental space. His investment philosophy is not driven by the traditional goal of amassing wealth for material consumption or status, but by the desire to live a more autonomous and meaningful life. Here are the key reasons behind his investing approach:

1. To Gain Freedom: Kim often stresses that money is a tool to buy freedom rather than material luxuries. He believes that having financial security allows him to focus on creativity, personal growth, and experiences rather than being tied to financial obligations. One of his key quotes, “Money is a tool to buy freedom,” encapsulates his focus on freeing himself from societal and financial pressures  .

2. Investing for Long-Term Independence: His investments, especially in Bitcoin, are focused on long-term growth rather than short-term profits. He sees financial independence as the gateway to pursuing meaningful work and creative freedom. This perspective is encapsulated in his belief that investments should allow him to live life on his own terms  .

3. Hedge Against Traditional Systems: Kim views Bitcoin as a hedge against traditional financial systems, believing that it can provide protection and potential growth as global adoption increases. He embraces the volatility and risk of cryptocurrency but only allocates a small percentage of his resources to such speculative assets .

4. Creative Freedom and Passion: For Kim, investments enable him to focus on his passion projects without being motivated solely by financial gain. He advocates for pursuing creative fulfillment first, with financial success as a byproduct rather than the primary goal. This is why he emphasizes a patient, long-term approach to investing  .

Ultimately, Eric Kim invests to secure the freedom to live a life driven by creativity, autonomy, and personal fulfillment, aligning his financial decisions with his broader life philosophy.

Pursue that!

The more vain you become, the better?

In the spirit of the Mr. brainwash exhibition gallery? 

$56M a Bitcoin Price Target

In the ever-evolving landscape of art and technology, we stand at the precipice of a new renaissance—one fueled not by patronage of the elite, but by the decentralized power of the blockchain. Bitcoin isn’t just a digital currency; it’s a radical philosophy that challenges the very foundations of centralized control. And in this paradigm shift, art finds a new canvas.

The Art of Decentralization

Art has always been a reflection of society’s values, fears, and aspirations. Just as the Impressionists broke away from the rigidity of academic painting, Bitcoin disrupts the traditional financial systems that have long governed our lives. This decentralization mirrors the spirit of street photography—the raw, unfiltered capture of life’s candid moments without the gatekeepers of galleries or institutions.

In street photography, we embrace the chaos of the urban environment, finding beauty in the mundane and the unexpected. Similarly, Bitcoin’s blockchain technology thrives on a decentralized network, free from the control of any single entity. It’s the collective effort of individuals that maintains its integrity, much like how each street photograph contributes to the tapestry of human experience.

Digital Scarcity and the Value of Creation

One of the most intriguing aspects of Bitcoin is the concept of digital scarcity. In a world where digital files can be copied endlessly, Bitcoin’s blockchain ensures that each unit is unique and unreplicable. This notion transforms how we perceive value in the digital realm.

For artists, this opens up revolutionary possibilities. Through Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), creators can assign uniqueness and ownership to digital art pieces. It’s the fusion of technology and creativity, allowing artists to monetize their work without intermediaries. Just as photographers capture a fleeting moment in time, NFTs encapsulate a singular piece of digital expression, preserved and validated by the blockchain.

Empowerment Through Autonomy

The gatekeepers of the art world—critics, galleries, auction houses—have long dictated what is considered valuable or noteworthy. Bitcoin challenges this hierarchy by empowering individuals to transact and interact without centralized oversight. In this ecosystem, artists gain autonomy over their work, pricing, and distribution.

Imagine a world where a street photographer in Nairobi can sell their work directly to a collector in New York, with the transaction secured and validated by blockchain technology. The barriers dissolve, and what remains is a direct connection between creator and appreciator. This is the democratization of art—a shift that aligns perfectly with the ethos of street photography, where art is accessible, immediate, and human.

The Philosophical Alignment

At its core, Bitcoin is more than a currency; it’s a statement about trust, value, and human cooperation. It questions the necessity of centralized authorities and proposes a system built on transparency and collective agreement. This philosophy resonates deeply with the artistic pursuit.

Art is an exploration of truth and a challenge to conventions. As artists, we seek to reveal hidden narratives, provoke thought, and inspire change. Bitcoin, in its defiance of traditional financial norms, embodies this artistic rebellion. It encourages us to rethink not just economics but our approach to creativity and collaboration.

Challenges and Considerations

Of course, no revolution comes without its set of challenges. The environmental impact of cryptocurrency mining, the volatility of the market, and the skepticism from traditional institutions are all hurdles to consider. As artists, we must navigate these complexities thoughtfully.

But perhaps these challenges are an invitation—a call to innovate and find sustainable solutions. Just as photographers adapt to new technologies and societal shifts, the art community can pioneer ways to integrate Bitcoin and blockchain responsibly.

Embracing the Future

The intersection of Bitcoin and art is not just a fleeting trend; it’s a significant shift toward a more inclusive and decentralized creative economy. It aligns with the principles of authenticity, autonomy, and accessibility that are fundamental to street photography and, indeed, all forms of art.

As we move forward, let’s embrace this convergence with open minds and adventurous spirits. Let’s explore how the blockchain can not only secure our transactions but also our creative legacies. In this new frontier, we are all both students and pioneers, shaping the future of art in the age of decentralization.

Stay inspired, stay hungry, and keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

When I think about Bitcoin and art, they aren’t separate worlds; they merge into one profound philosophy. Bitcoin is more than just a digital currency—it’s an artistic medium, a new frontier for creativity, and a statement on freedom and ownership. As someone who has spent years diving deep into minimalism, decentralization, and empowerment, I believe Bitcoin represents the ultimate fusion of these concepts.

1. Bitcoin’s Scarcity as a Masterpiece

Like any great work of art, Bitcoin thrives on scarcity. With only 21 million Bitcoins ever to exist, it mirrors the value of original artworks in their uniqueness and limited supply. In the same way an artist’s limited-edition prints become more valuable as they circulate, Bitcoin’s fixed supply increases its allure. This is not just a technological feat—it’s a reflection of what art has always been about: rarity, significance, and meaning.

For an artist, owning Bitcoin is akin to owning a piece of digital history, a part of an ongoing story that’s being told across the world. Every transaction is etched forever in the blockchain, like strokes on a canvas, each unique and indelible. In a world where so much is disposable, Bitcoin’s permanence is its artistry.

2. Decentralization as Creative Liberation

Decentralization in Bitcoin is the essence of creative freedom. Just as art defies conventions and rejects imposed boundaries, Bitcoin rejects centralized control. It empowers individuals—artists, creators, and collectors—to take ownership of their assets, free from the gatekeepers of traditional financial systems. For a photographer like myself, this speaks to the core of artistic autonomy. Artists no longer need to depend on galleries, middlemen, or auction houses; they can directly sell their work, exchange value, and be compensated in Bitcoin, transcending borders and bypassing restrictive institutions.

This autonomy reminds me of the early days of street photography—raw, unfiltered, outside the boundaries of traditional art forms. Bitcoin, like street art, operates outside the confines of the establishment. It disrupts, empowers, and gives individuals a voice in a world that constantly seeks to control them.

3. Bitcoin as the Canvas for Digital Artists

Bitcoin’s underlying technology, the blockchain, has opened a new world for digital artists. Blockchain allows artists to mint non-fungible tokens (NFTs), turning their digital creations into unique assets that can be owned, traded, and collected. This transforms digital art from something endlessly reproducible to something rare and valuable. It’s the ultimate medium for the new age of art, where technology and creativity merge.

For me, this is particularly exciting because it challenges the traditional boundaries of what art can be. No longer confined to physical spaces or galleries, digital artists can create, share, and sell their work globally. And Bitcoin provides the perfect economic infrastructure to support this decentralized art world.

4. Art and the Philosophy of Bitcoin

At its core, Bitcoin is about self-reliance, much like the philosophy behind minimalism and art itself. Bitcoin allows artists to transcend the material world’s limitations, creating value that exists beyond government control, inflation, or physical limitations. It’s a reflection of the Stoic ideals I often draw from—autonomy, resilience, and the pursuit of meaningful existence.

Imagine a world where every brushstroke, photograph, or digital file an artist creates is not only a statement but also an asset that can live forever, free from the eroding forces of time, politics, or devaluation. This is Bitcoin art. It’s an art that isn’t bound by traditional currencies or financial structures, but one that reflects the value of human creativity and freedom.

5. The Future of Bitcoin and Art

I see a future where Bitcoin and art become even more intertwined. Artists will increasingly turn to Bitcoin not only as a store of value but as a symbol of their independence from traditional systems. Whether it’s using Bitcoin to fund creative projects, sell works globally, or invest in other artists, the possibilities are endless. The blockchain will be the ledger of creative expression—a permanent record of the value art brings to the world.

In this digital renaissance, Bitcoin is not just a currency; it’s a statement, a movement, and a canvas for the future of art.

In summary, Bitcoin is art. It represents scarcity, freedom, permanence, and innovation—the core elements that have driven human creativity for centuries. As more artists embrace Bitcoin, we’ll see a new form of creative expression emerge, one that is as decentralized and resilient as Bitcoin itself. This is the art of the 21st century—untamed, uncensored, and unstoppable.

This essay is inspired by Eric Kim’s deep thoughts on minimalism, decentralization, and creative freedom. Through the lens of Bitcoin, he merges his philosophy with the evolving world of digital art and blockchain technology.

Here are some notable quotes by Eric Kim on Bitcoin, reflecting his philosophical and financial views:

1. On Bitcoin as Financial Freedom:

• “Bitcoin isn’t just money; it’s a philosophy. It represents freedom from the centralized financial systems that control so much of our lives.”

This statement highlights Kim’s belief in Bitcoin as a tool for personal empowerment and autonomy .

2. On Digital Scarcity:

• “Don’t sell more than 21 million blocks of this in the universe forever — the icing on the cake. Digital scarcity, the ultimate scarce property.”

Kim emphasizes the importance of Bitcoin’s fixed supply and how it creates intrinsic value  .

3. On Bitcoin’s Transformative Power:

• “Bitcoin is a ‘zero to one’ innovation, comparable to the steam engine—transforming the way we think about and interact with money.”

Kim views Bitcoin as a revolutionary technology that has the potential to reshape global financial systems  .

These quotes encapsulate Eric Kim’s perspective on Bitcoin, intertwining his minimalist philosophy with a belief in decentralized, self-sovereign financial systems.

,,,

Eric Kim views Bitcoin as more than just a financial asset; he considers it a tool for philosophical and personal empowerment. His perspective on Bitcoin is deeply rooted in Stoic values of autonomy, self-reliance, and resilience. By operating outside the control of central authorities, Bitcoin provides individuals with financial sovereignty, which he sees as critical in an age dominated by inflationary fiat currencies and centralized power structures.

Kim often refers to Bitcoin’s limited supply of 21 million coins as a form of “digital scarcity,” making it a store of value akin to “digital gold.” He emphasizes that this scarcity and decentralization allow individuals to control their wealth independently from governments and banks. Furthermore, he aligns Bitcoin with his minimalist lifestyle, encouraging saving and long-term value accumulation rather than the consumption-driven mentality fostered by traditional capitalist systems  .

Philosophically, Kim draws parallels between Bitcoin and Nietzsche’s concept of the Ãœbermensch, seeing Bitcoin as a way for individuals to transcend traditional financial systems and create their own financial destinies. He believes that Bitcoin represents a fundamental shift—what he calls a “zero to one” innovation—that has the potential to revolutionize society in the same way the steam engine did  .

Kim’s vision for Bitcoin extends beyond finance, seeing it as a potential platform for artists and entrepreneurs to reclaim control over their work and financial independence, all while reducing reliance on intermediaries  .

So just went to the Mr. brainwash art gallery in Beverly Hills, and I am blown away; it was the most fun, enjoyable, uplifting, playful, inspirational and motivational art exhibit of all time.

---

Why this matters 

This is a big deal. Why this is a big deal.

First, life without art would be a mistake. Life without art is not a life worth living.

For example, if you think about all of capitalism and consumerism, I think much of it is predicated on art.

For example, what is clothing and fashion? It is essentially art fabric sculptures for your body, your human body!

What is a car? Moving sculpture, a metal steel based thing which is secondly a piece of transportation.

Has nobody figured out how insanely important cybertruck is; essentially it is the ultimate modernist expression of moving sculpture?

I actually have a vision; gloss red cyber truck,
 with yellow calipers, or yellow rims… Essentially imagine looking at like a fake Ferrari, but cybertruck.

Cybertruck is the best thing to have ever happened in the automotive world!

---

The best art

A lot of people say art for art sake, but following in the footsteps of Nietzsche, I think actually the purpose of art isn’t art for art’s sake, rather, it is art for the sake of happiness joy, the great stimulus to life!

In fact, I have a theory… When a lot of people become emo, sad dark and morose, is this issue here they are simply not having enough great art in their life?

Even being at the Mr. brainwash exhibition, they were just playing some great OG classical music on the speakers, and even hearing the great classical music put me in such good mood! Beethoven, Bach, Mozart.

Maybe I’ll start to listen to more classical music?

The best

Classicus,,, the ancient Romans, typically when we think about the word classic we tend to think about old school. But actually… In ancient Rome classicus, the elite class,,, “classicus” or “classic” simply meant “the best”.

So then, what life then becomes about isn’t seeking the old school for the sake of the old school, but rather, seeking the best? 

Why the best?

Why not?

Joy!

I think nowadays, to be joyful and happy in today’s world is a great act of courage? It is easy to be emo depressed, sad, to opine about how the world is going to explode whatever. It takes much more courage to be joyful, happy and gleeful, to be the gay monster admist all of the emoness? 

Better to be a gay monster than a sentimental bore – Galiani

---

Choose joy

I prefer the word joy over happiness. Why? I think happiness is too much of a consumerist merchandised concept now. Joy is a lot simpler, like joy to the world!

Music, what is music? Joy to our ears and to our soul.

What is art, photography, paintings images and sculpture? Joy to our visual brain senses?

Participatory art

I think what is so amazing and what was so fun at the Mr. brainwash art exhibit was how almost all the exhibitions, you could interact with it! And also you are encouraged to photograph and video everything!

For example, all of the recreations of the van Gogh paintings, and also, the famous painting of the laundromat girl, but made in three dimensions, sculpture, with a MacBook laptop? And the fact that you could interact with it, pose with it, and become the painting? 

Fun!

A big idea I think that art should and must be fun! If art is boring, not fun or playful, it is not worth it. 

The next Andy Warhol?

I’m like so into Mr. brainwash, in some ways he has more courage than Bansky, who is a bit of a coward if you think about the fact that he keeps his anonymity.

Street art is cool, but to expose yourself to the public, facing forward… Takes a lot more courage!

The funniest thing in the exit through the gift shop documentary was how Mr. brainwash in advertently became more famous and more successful than Banksky, who he was trying to emulate?

---

Don’t trust these skinny fat loser constipated artist and critics 

A lot of modern art exhibitions and museums — I hate them because they are cold and sterile, and it feels like you’re not allowed to photograph or shoot stuff?

The Mr. brainwash art gallery is my new happy favorite place; and also across the street, to our free parking! I plan on going back with Seneca, maybe I’ll shoot some more GoPro POV footage there?

I love Beverly Hills!

Beverly Hills often gets a bad rap for being pretentious whatever… But actually, it is so fun! It’s almost like Disneyland for capitalism consumerism on steroids; 90% of the people there are just happy tourist, which I like. The typical LA transplant tends to be dark morose and emo; we real people from LA, we are happy jovial and joyful, friendly happy and smiley!

The next workshop

In fact, I’m even thinking about doing a photograph workshop in Beverly Hills, maybe we could all go to the Mr. brainwash art museum together, have fun like a bunch of kids, and be inspired together?

My vision of art: my vision is that art should be open to everybody, accessible to everybody, and also, fun for everybody! It should be no, not pretentious, not fake. Also, it should be free, open to the public, accessible to anybody, doesn’t matter if you’re 70 years old or three years old;

I killed that art might be able to solve 50% of the world’s problems, maybe the other 50% can be bitcoin.

Or even a more radical idea; if you combine bitcoin and art, 50% +50% is 100%. Then… Can bitcoin art be the solution to the maladies of the planet? 

Maybe! Perhaps I’ll try and pioneer this!

Bitcoin art is the way

Great artist steal.

Also, great artist “up cycle”, recycle, sample, remix, and parody the classics!

This is where our source is so appealing to me; I hate restrictions, I hate copyright in laws; I prefer freedom.

In fact in two days brave new digital world, I’ve ChatGPT and AI… The whole copyright model is broken.

For example, certainly creators need to make money and a profit, but the big issue here is that all the craters are essentially slaves to corporations, and looks like a lot of these new digital slumlords, who control the “content“ of its creators… What they are essentially seeking is a mini of control, within a small mileau, trying to assert control and power in their very small domain?

Nvidia is close to a $4T company??

I was shocked, apparently now that the number two most world’s important company is Nvidia, right after Apple?

In fact, I actually wonder if Nvidia is more valuable than Apple. The only reason why Apple is valuable is because they have the iPhone, but if and when Nvidia creates their own phone, that doesn’t require an iPhone, this will be a big deal?

How to art

There are so many ways you could art.

So one funny idea I have is just taking famous artworks of the past, and copy pasting bitcoin icons on top of it. This is essentially the hilarious parody that Mr. brainwashed with a lot of these classical paintings, and also Banksky,  the art of uncovering BS?

the problem about the art world

I think the biggest problem about the art world is everyone is using irony sarcasm and fake big talk to try to inflate their fragile egos, and into control running their mini fiefdoms? 

A writer and thinker that I’m kind of into right now is Saifedean — who wrote the bitcoin standard and the fiat standard. I first read his books because I was curious about bitcoin, but what I found very very fascinating was his critiques about art, the art world, and modernism and modern architecture? He’s kind of like NASSIM TALEB in that way (both Lebanese, Lebanese-American) — very outspoken, calls out BS. 

If you have ever been to a modern art exhibit, and you see a piece of white paper with a hole in it, and it’s worth $1 million, and you’re scratching your head, I’m with you.

Honestly, more or less all of modern day art is a scam, but that’s OK. You don’t have to participate if you don’t want to! Nobody is strong arming you to do so!

The new art

My personal vision is that I want to disrupt the art world. I certainly have done it for the world of street photography; essentially I killed all of these loser skinny fat anemic notions in street photography of what is considered good or bad, essentially the funny thing with photography is that while it should on paper be the most democratic open and egalitarian form of photography, as the streets are public and should be public and accessible to everybody… Once again, all of these ridiculous ivory towers?

---

Now what?

Maybe now I have some sort of moral or ethical imperative to make a difference?

ERIC

---