#Self-Transcendence

Altruism is a noble performance that, behind the tale of self-sacrifice for others, cleverly coexists with self-aggrandizement and social approval. The outstretched hand intended to help often conceals quiet expectations of likes and praise. Many believe in its unconditional benevolence, thus paradoxically establishing an exchange so that rejecting rewards becomes the ultimate reward. Altruism is the most socially acceptable form of self-centeredness, a flip side of self-love crafted for public consumption.

A peregrination is a journey to a holy site undertaken to verify the value of one’s faith in a theme park of divinity. Yet that value is most often measured by souvenir towels and Instagrammable spots. The genuine spiritual experience is judged by hardship, notably by the shedding of one’s skin at the soles of the feet. Many pilgrims return home carrying souvenirs rather than enlightenment, only to slip back into everyday life. Ultimately, the pilgrimage becomes less an act of self-transcendence than a networking event of communal sermons and business card exchanges.

The will to power is the universal madness of striving for dominance to mask one's worthlessness. Conquering another offers momentary satisfaction, but the resulting void only deepens the thirst for control. Ideals and morals become glittering masks to justify desire. Ultimately, peace eludes those who fail to trample even themselves.