On the internet I am The Machine. In reality I think that I am a consumer, at least that's what they tell me...
I subbed +THC +Greg because his content is direct, consistently published, partially available for free, open minded, thought provoking and generally provocative ect...
And yes I felt guilty for listening to all of THC's free content for over a year without contribution :0
If you want to know a little about me read further...
A recent experience in self loathing...
For a while I had this feeling of paralysis anytime donations, charity's and even subscriptions came up in my life. Yes I am selfish but that was not the source of this paralysis. It was coming from a state of mind, a mental block.
But then I experienced something so simple.
I began researching the "Wendelstein 7-X" when the topic hit the news cycle. About three clicks later I was on my way to the wiki page for the "W7-X." Upon arrival part of the information was obstructed by a plea for donations. My initial reaction was one of disgust as though I had just visited youtube without addblocker... But then I began to remember how many times I had been in the same situation on this site and how useful it was as a research tool.
This is when my state of mind dissolved much like a bad attitude and I realized I care about wikipedia and I can contribute right here, right now... In that instant my attitude shifted, I donated to Wikipedia immediately and began creating a list of non profit, and for profit services that I believe in and or utilize and began the process of becoming charitable. Trust me I have a long way to go...
Despite the best efforts of our surroundings we are individuals and have custody of our beliefs. I came to realize that because of a so called traumatic experience in my history I had come to the ridiculous conclusion that charity, contribution and donation where generally corrupt and that it was futile, and wasteful to participate.
How many other pieces of my psyche are scattered with these historical or learned emotional and mental blocks? Without thought provoking conversation driving research and participation I may have cemented my lives rendition of Ebenezer Scrooge.
Thank you to this community and to THC for facilitating this medium.
Happy Holidays,
The Machine
Hi, Machine. Welcome! We are glad to see you here. The free podcast is there to be free, no strings attached. Greg started the podcast with only free content in mind and ran on donations. The donations weren't enough so he decided to start Plus with a value for value cost so he might be able to focus on THC, quit his job and live a decent, humble life doing what he loves.
I think most people are like you, or how you were. There is so many people asking for handouts that don't need it and who are just taking advantage of the charitable nature of good hearted people that when you recognize it you build a wall and don't let any charitable ideas past. It's a human thing. I have done the same. But congratulations on freeing yourself and letting your guard down a bit and opening up enough to recognize good charitable decisions and for helping out. Great job. :0)
Thanks for sharing and we hope to see you in the forum discussions.
