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@ b80cc5f2:966b8353
2025-04-25 12:56:37Originally posted on 04/12/2024 @ https://music.2140art.com/bitcoins-role-in-the-new-music-economy-more-than-an-ecosystem/
The phrase “New Music Economy” seems to be popping up more frequently lately. It caught our attention recently when we noticed others using it to describe shifts in the music industry—more control for artists, fewer intermediaries, and innovative tools for direct fan engagement.
Initially, we were intrigued but sceptical. What they described didn’t quite feel like a true economy. Was it really something new, or just a repackaging of old systems with modern tools?
This curiosity led us to dig deeper. We came across some of the term’s earliest uses, including a 2007 report titled “Social Interactions in the New Music Economy“ and a 2008 blog post by venture capitalist Fred Wilson. Both framed the “New Music Economy” as a reaction to the traditional industry’s inefficiencies and barriers, championing decentralisation and direct artist-to-fan relationships.
Fred Wilson, for instance, described the “New Music Economy” as an era where artists could bypass labels and connect directly with fans via platforms like SoundCloud, Bandcamp, and Kickstarter. While groundbreaking at the time, these solutions still relied heavily on legacy financial systems. The flow of value was streamlined, but the underlying economic structure—centralised payment processors, fiat currencies, and reliance on intermediaries—remained intact.
This made us realise something important: without fundamentally rethinking the financial layer, what we’ve seen as the “New Music Economy” is really just a better ecosystem. Bitcoin, however, has the potential to transform it into a true economy.
What Defines an Economy?
An economy isn’t just a system—it’s an infrastructure for creating, exchanging, and preserving value. Historically, the “New Music Economy” has been more about redistributing control than reinventing the infrastructure itself. Platforms like Spotify or Patreon help artists reach audiences and earn money, but they remain bound by centralised, fiat-based frameworks.
Fred Wilson and others rightly pointed out that artists no longer need gatekeepers like major labels. But what was left unsaid is that they’re still beholden to payment processors, inflationary currencies, and the rules of the traditional financial system.
Take, for instance, the concept of “fairness” in royalties. Artists rely on complex systems managed by labels and platforms to determine how much they’re owed. This creates an inherent opacity, and disputes over unpaid royalties or missing revenue streams are common.
And let’s not forget geography. Artists in emerging markets are often excluded from the global music economy due to a lack of accessible payment systems or expensive remittance fees.
This is where Bitcoin steps in to change the equation.
Bitcoin: The Financial Layer the Music Industry Needs?
Bitcoin does more than streamline payments—it replaces the entire financial layer with one that’s decentralised, global, and incorruptible. Here’s how it transforms the “New Music Economy” into something truly new:
- Censorship Resistance: With Bitcoin, artists can receive payments directly, bypassing platforms that can freeze or block funds (a real risk with PayPal, Patreon, or even banks). This is especially vital for artists in politically or economically unstable regions.
- Global Accessibility: Fans can support artists without worrying about remittance fees, currency conversions, or banking infrastructure. Bitcoin opens up a global marketplace for music.
- Deflationary Currency: Unlike fiat, Bitcoin isn’t subject to inflation. What an artist earns today won’t lose value tomorrow—it may even appreciate, making it a reliable store of value for long-term financial stability.
- Immutable Royalties: Bitcoin’s programmable nature allows for smart contracts. Artists can automate royalty splits and ensure they’re paid instantly and transparently whenever their work is sold or streamed.
Imagine a world where every time a song is streamed, payment flows instantly and directly to the artist, producers, and collaborators. No waiting months for a royalty cheque, no confusing statements, and no middlemen taking a cut.
Fred Wilson’s vision of artists controlling their own destinies was ahead of its time. But Bitcoin takes it a step further, addressing the economic shortcomings of platforms by creating a financial system that artists and fans can truly own.
Expanding the Vision with Real-World Examples
Let’s look at a practical scenario. An independent artist uploads their music to a decentralised streaming platform powered by Bitcoin. Every stream automatically triggers a micropayment through the Lightning Network, or other Bitcoin Layer 2’s splitting revenue between the artist and their collaborators according to a smart contract. Fans can also tip directly, sending Bitcoin with no middleman fees or delays.
Or consider an artist in a country with hyperinflation. Without access to stable banking systems, their earnings in local currency rapidly lose value. With Bitcoin, they have a deflationary currency that retains its worth, empowering them to support their craft sustainably.
For fans, Bitcoin creates new opportunities to engage directly with their favourite artists. Imagine buying concert tickets or exclusive content directly from an artist’s website using Bitcoin, without the inflated fees of ticketing platforms.
This approach isn’t just theoretical. Platforms exploring decentralised music solutions are already experimenting with these concepts, hinting at the vast potential of a truly Bitcoin-powered music industry.
The even further takeaway is that deeper-diving musicians, who understand the importance of running and operating their own Bitcoin nodes, never have to trust any platforms whatsoever with uploads either. Through protocols like V4V and Podcasting 2.0, musicians could in fact keep all of their masters on their own hard drive or server and stream them across every major platform with a feed.
Just these things at the tip of the iceberg with Bitcoin already brings being both the platform and the payment processor directly into the hands of the artists themselves; the bonus is that they can also be on every streaming platform at the same time without ever signing up to or involving another entity.
Without Bitcoin, It’s Just a System Upgrade
Let’s be honest: without Bitcoin, the “New Music Economy” doesn’t quite live up to its name. It’s still reliant on intermediaries—banks, payment processors, and fiat currencies—that introduce friction, fees, and vulnerabilities.
Sure, platforms like Patreon or Bandcamp make it easier for artists to earn, but they’re not fundamentally changing how value flows. It’s more accurate to call this a “New Music Ecosystem”—an improvement but still tethered to the old system.
Bitcoin flips the narrative. It removes gatekeepers entirely, enabling a direct, censorship-resistant, and inflation-proof flow of value between artists and fans. It’s not just a tool for payments; it’s the foundation of a new, decentralised financial infrastructure.
A Revolutionary Shift, or New Music Economy?
Fred Wilson’s early vision and the 2007 discussions around the “New Music Economy” planted the seeds for artist empowerment. But Bitcoin brings those ideas to their logical conclusion, creating a truly global and sovereign economic framework for music.
So, is the term “New Music Economy” overused or misunderstood? Without Bitcoin, it might be. But with Bitcoin, we’re looking at something genuinely revolutionary—an economy that finally lives up to its promise.
The question now is: are we ready to embrace it?
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@ 6ce88a1e:4cb7fe62
2025-04-25 12:48:39Ist gut für Brot.
Brot für Brüder
Fleisch für mich
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@ 6b3780ef:221416c8
2025-04-25 12:08:51We have been working on a significant update to the DVMCP specification to incorporate the latest Model Context Protocol (MCP) version
2025-03-26
, and it's capabilities. This draft revision represents our vision for how MCP services can be discovered, accessed, and utilized across the Nostr network while maintaining compatibility between both protocols.Expanding Beyond Tools
The first version of the DVMCP specification focused primarily on tools, functions that could be executed remotely via MCP servers. While this provided valuable functionality, the Model Context Protocol offers more capabilities than just tools. In our proposed update, DVMCP would embrace the complete MCP capabilities framework. Rather than focusing solely on tools, the specification will incorporate resources (files and data sources that can be accessed by clients) and prompts (pre-defined templates for consistent interactions). This expansion transforms DVMCP into a complete framework for service interoperability between protocols.
Moving Toward a More Modular Architecture
One of the most significant architectural changes in this draft is our move toward a more modular event structure. Previously, we embedded tools directly within server announcements using NIP-89, creating a monolithic approach that was challenging to extend.
The updated specification introduces dedicated event kinds for server announcements (31316) and separate event kinds for each capability category. Tools, resources, and prompts would each have their own event kinds (31317, 31318, and 31319 respectively). This separation improves both readability and interoperability between protocols, allowing us to support pagination for example, as described in the MCP protocol. It also enables better filtering options for clients discovering specific capabilities, allows for more efficient updates when only certain capabilities change, and enhances robustness as new capability types can be added with minimal disruption.
Technical Direction
The draft specification outlines several technical improvements worth highlighting. We've worked to ensure consistent message structures across all capability types and created a clear separation of concerns between Nostr metadata (in tags) and MCP payloads (in content). The specification includes support for both public server discovery and direct private server connections, comprehensive error handling aligned with both protocols, and detailed protocol flows for all major operations.
Enhancing Notifications
Another important improvement in our design is the redesign of the job feedback and notification system. We propose to make event kind 21316 (ephemeral). This approach provides a more efficient way to deliver status updates, progress information, and interactive elements during capability execution without burdening relays with unnecessary storage requirements.
This change would enable more dynamic interactions between clients and servers, particularly for long-running operations.
Seeking Community Feedback
We're now at a stage where community input would be highly appreciated. If you're interested in DVMCP, we'd greatly appreciate your thoughts on our approach. The complete draft specification is available for review, and we welcome your feedback through comments on our pull request at dvmcp/pull/18. Your insights and suggestions will help us refine the specification to better serve the needs of the community.
Looking Ahead
After gathering and incorporating community feedback, our next step will be updating the various DVMCP packages to implement these changes. This will include reference implementations for both servers (DVMCP-bridge) and clients (DVMCP-discovery).
We believe this proposed update represents a significant step forward for DVMCP. By embracing the full capabilities framework of MCP, we're expanding what's possible within the protocol while maintaining our commitment to open standards and interoperability.
Stay tuned for more updates as we progress through the feedback process and move toward implementation. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the evolution of DVMCP, and we look forward to your continued involvement.
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@ 3de5f798:31faf8b0
2025-04-25 11:57:47111111
This template is just for demo needs.
petrinet ;startDay () -> working ;stopDay working -> () ;startPause working -> paused ;endPause paused -> working ;goSmoke working -> smoking ;endSmoke smoking -> working ;startEating working -> eating ;stopEating eating -> working ;startCall working -> onCall ;endCall onCall -> working ;startMeeting working -> inMeetinga ;endMeeting inMeeting -> working ;logTask working -> working
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@ 0001cbad:c91c71e8
2025-04-25 11:31:08As is well known, mathematics is a form of logic — that is, it is characterized by the ability to generate redundancy through manifestations in space. Mathematics is unrestricted from the human perspective, since it is what restricts us; it is descriptive rather than explanatory, unlike physics, chemistry, biology, etc. You can imagine a world without physics, chemistry, or biology in terms of how these occur, but you cannot conceive of a world without mathematics, because you are before you do anything. In other words, it encompasses all possibilities.
You may be left without an explanation, but never without a description. Lies can be suggested with mathematics — you can write that “5+2=8,” but we know that’s wrong, because we are beings capable of manipulating it. Explanations are not necessary; it stands on its own. It is somewhat irreverent in its form, and this elicits its truth.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
An interesting way to think about mathematics is that it consists of “points,” where the only variation is their position. It is possible to conceive of a drastically different world, no matter how it differs, but we can only treat them as such because they are the same — except for their location. That is, the creation of a plane becomes possible. This leads us to infer that mathematics is the decoupling of space-time, allowing one to play emperor. In this sense, something that is independent of time can be considered as an a priori truth.
As Wittgenstein put it:
Death is not an event in life: we do not live to experience death. If we take eternity not as an infinite temporal duration but as timelessness, then eternal life belongs to those who live in the present. We can summarize what has been said so far using the following logic:
We are limited by time. You, as a being, can only be in one place at a given moment. Mathematics is independent of time. Therefore, its elements (points) encompass all locations simultaneously. If its elements exist throughout all logical space at once, mathematics transcends time; and if things vary according to time, then mathematics is sovereign. Thus, the point is this: since nothing distinguishes one point from another except position, a point can become another as long as it has a location. That is, it only requires the use of operators to get there.
Operators = act
To clarify: there is no such thing as a distance of zero, because it does not promote redundancy. It’s as if the condition for something to qualify as a mathematical problem is that it must be subject to redundancy — in other words, it must be capable of being formulated.
An interesting analogy is to imagine yourself as an omnipresent being, but with decentralized “consciousness,” that is, corresponding to each location where your “self” is. Therefore, people anywhere in the world could see you. Given that, when you inhibit the possibility of others seeing you — in a static world, except for yours — nothing happens; this is represented by emptiness, because there is no relationship of change. It is the pure state, the nakedness of logic, its breath.
You, thinking of your girlfriend, with whom you’ve just had an argument, see a woman walking toward you. From a distance, she resembles her quite a lot. But as she gets closer, you suddenly see that it isn’t her, and your heart sinks. Subtext: You are alive.
Diving deeper, “0” stands to redundancy as frustration stands to “life”; both are the negation of a manifestation of potential — of life. Yet they are fundamental, because if everything is a manifestation of potential, what value does it have if there is nothing to oppose it?
Corollary: There are multiple locations — and this configuration is the condition for redundancy, since for something to occupy another position, it must have one to begin with, and zero represents this.
A descriptive system
The second part of this essay aims to relate mathematics to what allows it to be framed as a “marker” of history: uncertainty — and also its role as an interface through which history unfolds.
From a logical assumption, you cannot claim the nonexistence of the other, because to deny it is to deny yourself.
As Gandalf said:
Many that live deserve death. And some that die deserve life. Can you give it to them? Then do not be too eager to deal out death in judgment. The issue is that we are obsessed with the truth about how the human experience should be — which is rather pathological, given that this experience cannot be echoed unless it is coupled with a logical framework coherent with life, with the factors that bathe it. That is, a logically coherent civilizational framework must be laced with both mathematics and uncertainty. We can characterize this as a descriptive plane, because it does not induce anything — it merely describes what happens.
Thus, an explanatory framework can be seen as one that induces action, since an explanation consists of linking one thing to another.
A descriptive framework demands a decentralized system of coordination, because for a story to be consistent, it must be inexpressible in its moments (temporal terms) and yet encompass them all. A valid analogy: History = blockchain.
To be part of history, certainty must outweigh uncertainty — and whoever offers that certainty must take on a corresponding uncertainty. Pack your things and leave; return when you have something to offer. That is the line of history being built, radiating life.
Legitimacy of Private Property
As previously woven, there is something that serves as a precondition for establishing conformity between the real plane and the mathematical one — the latter being subordinate to the logical, to life itself. The existence of the subject (will/consciousness) legitimizes property, for objects cannot, by principle, act systematically — that is, praxeological. It makes no sense to claim that something incapable of deliberate action possesses something that is not inherently comprehensible to it as property, since it is not a subject. An element of a set has as its property the existence within one or more sets — that is, its existence, as potential, only occurs through handling.
The legitimacy of private property itself is based on the fact that for someone to be the original proprietor of something, there must be spatiotemporal palpability between them, which is the mold of the world. Therefore, private property is a true axiom, enabling logical deductions that allow for human flourishing.
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@ cff1720e:15c7e2b2
2025-04-25 10:59:35Erich Kästner (1899-1974) ist den meisten bekannt als erfolgreicher Kinderbuchautor, “Emil und die Detektive”, “Das fliegende Klassenzimmer”, und andere mehr. Als Teilnehmer des ersten Weltkriegs und Zeitzeuge des zweiten, hat er auch zahlreiche aufrüttelnde Gedichte gegen den Krieg geschrieben. \ \ Stimmen aus dem Massengrab\ Verdun, viele Jahre später\ Große Zeiten\ \ „Das entscheidende Erlebnis war natürlich meine Beschäftigung als Kriegsteilnehmer. Wenn man 17-jährig eingezogen wird, und die halbe Klasse ist schon tot, weil bekanntlich immer zwei Jahrgänge ungefähr in einer Klasse sich überlappen, ist man noch weniger Militarist als je vorher. Und eine dieser Animositäten, eine dieser Gekränktheiten eines jungen Menschen, eine der wichtigsten, war die Wut aufs Militär, auf die Rüstung, auf die Schwerindustrie.“
Auf den Schlachtfeldern von Verdun\ wachsen Leichen als Vermächtnis.\ Täglich sagt der Chor der Toten:\ „Habt ein besseres Gedächtnis!"
Offensichtlich funktioniert das kollektive Gedächtnis nicht so gut, wenn solch plumpe Kriegshetzer in alberner Verkleidung sich plötzlich wieder großer Beliebtheit erfreuen.
"Die Ereignisse von 1933 bis 1945 hätten spätestens 1928 bekämpft werden müssen. Später war es zu spät. Man darf nicht warten, bis der Freiheitskampf Landesverrat genannt wird. Man darf nicht warten, bis aus dem Schneeball eine Lawine geworden ist. Man muss den rollenden Schneeball zertreten. Die Lawine hält keiner mehr auf."
So wird eine friedliebende Gesellschaft systematisch in eine militaristische transformiert. Was wird der Titel der nächsten Sondersendung sein: "wollt ihr den totalen Krieg"?
„Erst wenn die Mutigen klug und die Klugen mutig geworden sind, wird das zu spüren sein, was irrtümlicherweise schon oft festgestellt wurde: ein Fortschritt der Menschheit.“
Höchste Zeit den Mut zu entwickeln sich dem Massenwahn zu widersetzen um das Unheil zu verhindern. Zwei Weltkriege haben Deutschland schwer geschadet, ein Dritter würde es auslöschen. Erinnern wir uns an Karthago, bevor es zu spät ist!
Kennst Du das Land, wo die Kanonen blühn?\ Du kennst es nicht? Du wirst es kennenlernen!\ Dort stehn die Prokuristen stolz und kühn\ in den Büros, als wären es Kasernen.
Dort wachsen unterm Schlips Gefreitenknöpfe. \ Und unsichtbare Helme trägt man dort.\ Gesichter hat man dort, doch keine Köpfe.\ Und wer zu Bett geht, pflanzt sich auch schon fort!
Wenn dort ein Vorgesetzter etwas will \ - und es ist sein Beruf etwas zu wollen -\ steht der Verstand erst stramm und zweitens still.\ Die Augen rechts! Und mit dem Rückgrat rollen!
Die Kinder kommen dort mit kleinen Sporen \ und mit gezognem Scheitel auf die Welt.\ Dort wird man nicht als Zivilist geboren.\ Dort wird befördert, wer die Schnauze hält.
Kennst Du das Land? Es könnte glücklich sein. \ Es könnte glücklich sein und glücklich machen?\ Dort gibt es Äcker, Kohle, Stahl und Stein\ und Fleiß und Kraft und andre schöne Sachen.
Selbst Geist und Güte gibt's dort dann und wann! \ Und wahres Heldentum. Doch nicht bei vielen.\ Dort steckt ein Kind in jedem zweiten Mann.\ Das will mit Bleisoldaten spielen.
Dort reift die Freiheit nicht. Dort bleibt sie grün. \ Was man auch baut - es werden stets Kasernen.\ Kennst Du das Land, wo die Kanonen blühn?\ Du kennst es nicht? Du wirst es kennenlernen!
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@ e8744882:47d84815
2025-04-25 10:45:49Top Hollywood Movies in Telugu Dubbed List for 2025
The world of Hollywood cinema is packed with action, adventure, and mind-blowing storytelling. But what if you could enjoy these blockbuster hits in your language? Thanks to Dimension on Demand (DOD) and theHollywood movies in Telugu dubbed list, fans can now experience international cinema like never before. Whether you love fantasy battles, high-stakes heists, or sci-fi horror, these top picks are perfect for Telugu-speaking audiences!
Let’s explore three must-watch Hollywood films that have captivated global audiences and are now available in Telugu for an immersive viewing experience.
Wrath Of The Dragon God – A Battle of Magic and Power
Magic, warriors, and an ancient evil—Wrath Of The Dragon God is an epic fantasy that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The film follows four brave heroes who must unite to retrieve a powerful orb and stop the villainous Damodar before he awakens a deadly black dragon. With the fate of the world at stake, they use elemental forces to battle dark magic in a spectacular showdown, making it a must-watch from the Hollywood movies in Telugu dubbed list.
This thrilling adventure brings together breathtaking visuals and a gripping storyline that fantasy lovers will adore. Directed by Gerry Lively, the film features a stellar cast, including Robert Kimmel, Brian Rudnick, and Gerry Lively, who bring their characters to life with incredible performances. If you're a fan of legendary fantasy films, this one should be at the top of your Hollywood movies in Telugu dubbed list.
Why This Fantasy Adventure Stands Out:
- Action-Packed Battles – Epic war sequences between magic and monsters
- A Gripping Storyline – A journey filled with suspense and high-stakes, making it a must-watch from the Telugu dubbed Hollywood films
- Visually Stunning – Breathtaking CGI and cinematic excellence
Riders – The Ultimate Heist Thriller
What happens when a group of expert thieves plan the ultimate heist? Riders is a fast-paced action thriller that follows a team of robbers attempting five burglaries in five days to steal a whopping $20 million. With intense chase sequences, double-crosses, and high-stakes action, this film keeps you hooked from start to finish, making it a standout in the Hollywood movies in Telugu dubbed list.
Featuring Stephen Dorff, Natasha Henstridge, Bruce Payne, and Steven Berkoff, the movie boasts a talented cast delivering electrifying performances. Dorff, known for his roles in Blade and Somewhere, plays a criminal mastermind determined to outwit the law. Directed by Gérard Pirès, Riders is a must-watch for action lovers looking for heart-racing excitement in their Hollywood movies in Telugu dubbed list.
What Makes This Heist Film a Must-Watch?
- High-Octane Action – Non-stop thrill from start to finish
- A Star-Studded Cast – Featuring Hollywood’s finest actors in a Hollywood movie dubbed in Telugu
- Smart & Engaging Plot – Twists and turns that keep you guessing
Grabbers – A Sci-Fi Horror with a Unique Twist
Ever wondered what it takes to survive an alien invasion? Grabbers bring a hilarious yet terrifying answer: getting drunk! When bloodsucking creatures invade a remote Irish island, the residents discover that alcohol is their only defense against these monstrous aliens. This unique blend of horror, comedy, and sci-fi makes for an entertaining ride, securing its place in the Hollywood movies in Telugu dubbed list.
Starring Killian Coyle, Stuart Graham, Richard Coyle, and Ruth Bradley, the movie’s cast delivers brilliant performances. Bradley, who won the IFTA Award for Best Actress, plays a courageous officer trying to protect the islanders. Directed by Jon Wright, Grabbers is a refreshing take on alien horror, making it a fantastic addition to the Hollywood movies in Telugu dubbed list.
Why This Sci-Fi Horror is a Must-Watch:
- A Unique Concept – Survival through Drunken Defense Tactics
- Action/ Horror/Si-Fi Combined – A perfect mix of action, sci-fi, and scares in the Telugu-dubbed Hollywood movies list
- Outstanding Performances – Ruth Bradley’s award-winning role
Why Watch These Hollywood Movies in Telugu Dubbed List on DOD?
DOD (Dimension On Demand) brings Hollywood movies in Telugu dubbed list to your screen, ensuring a seamless and immersive viewing experience. Whether you love action, horror, or sci-fi, these films deliver top-notch entertainment in your preferred language. With high-quality dubbing and engaging storytelling, DOD makes it easier than ever to enjoy Hollywood’s best!
Start Watching Now!
Watch Wrath Of The Dragon God in Telugu Dubbed – Click here!
Stream Riders Telugu Dubbed – Don’t miss it!
Enjoy Grabbers in Telugu Dubbed – Start now!Don’t miss out! Watch these movies on DOD now!
Check out the official DOD YouTube channel for more exciting releases and explore the Hollywood movies in Telugu dubbed list to experience cinema like never before!
Conclusion
Hollywood’s biggest hits are now more accessible than ever, thanks to high-quality dubbing that brings these stories to life in regional languages. Whether it's the magical battles of Wrath Of The Dragon God, the thrilling heist in Riders, or the hilarious alien invasion in Grabbers, these films offer something for every movie lover. With Hollywood movies in Telugu dubbed list, audiences can enjoy global cinema without language barriers. So grab your popcorn, tune into DOD, and get ready for an unforgettable movie marathon!
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@ cc31c8fe:4b7c54fd
2025-04-25 10:30:41== January 17 2025
Out From Underneath | Prism Shores
crazy arms | pigeon pit
Humanhood | The Weather Station
== february 07 2025
Wish Defense | FACS
Sayan - Savoie | Maria Teriaeva
Nowhere Near Today | Midding
== february 14 2025
Phonetics On and On | Horsegirl
== february 21 2025
Finding Our Balance | Tsoh Tso
Machine Starts To Sing | Porridge Radio
Armageddon In A Summer Dress | Sunny Wa
== february 28 2025
you, infinite | you, infinite
On Being | Max Cooper
Billboard Heart | Deep Sea Diver
== March 21 2025
Watermelon/Peacock | Exploding Flowers
Warlord of the Weejuns | Goya Gumbani
== March 28 2025
Little Death Wishes | CocoRosie
Forever is a Feeling | Lucy Dacus
Evenfall | Sam Akpro
== April 4 2025
Tripla | Miki Berenyi Trio
Adagio | Σtella
The Fork | Oscar Jerome
== April 18 2025
Send A Prayer My Way | Julien Baker & TORRES
Superheaven | Superheaven
Thee Black Boltz | Tunde Adebimpe
from brooklyvegan
== April 25 2025
Face Down In The Garden |Tennis
Under Tangled Silence | Djrum
Viagr Aboys |Viagra Boys
Blurring Time | Bells Larsen
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@ 1b9fc4cd:1d6d4902
2025-04-25 10:17:32Songwriting is a potent artistic expression that transcends borderlines and barriers. Many songwriters throughout history have perfected the art of crafting lyrics that resonate with audiences. In this article, Daniel Siegel Alonso delves into the nuanced realm of songwriting, exploring how songwriters like Lou Reed, Joni Mitchell, and Nina Simone have connected with listeners through their evocative and timeless lyrics.
**The street poet ** Siegel Alonso begins with the quintessential urban poet: Lou Reed. Reed transformed gritty, day-to-day experiences into lyrical masterpieces. As the front man of the proto-punk band The Velvet Underground, Reed's songwriting was known for its rawness and unflinching depiction of urban life. His lyrics often examined social alienation, the throes of addiction, and the pursuit of authenticity.
In songs like the now iconic "Heroin," Reed's explicit descriptions and stark narrative style draw listeners into the psyche of a person battling addiction. Lyrics such as "I have made the big decision / I'm gonna try to nullify my life" convey a haunting sense of sorrow and yearning for numbness. At the height of free love and flower power, Reed's ability to confront such complex subjects head-on allowed listeners to find solace in shared experiences, fostering a sense of connection through his candid storytelling.
Reed's influence extends beyond his provocative themes. His conversational singing style and use of spoken word elements in songs like "Walk on the Wild Side" subvert traditional songwriting norms, making his work not just music but a form of urban poetry. Reed's legacy lies in his ability to capture the essence of human experience.
**The painter of emotions ** Joni Mitchell's songwriting is often described as painting with words. Her intricate and poetic lyrics delve deep into personal and emotional landscapes, creating vivid imagery and profound reflections on life and love. Mitchell's work is a testament to the power of introspection and the beauty of vulnerability in songwriting.
On her 1971 studio album Blue, Mitchell bares all with songs that explore heartache, longing, and self-discovery. Songs like "A Case of You" contain poignant and visually evocative lyrics: "Oh, I could drink a case of you, darling / Still, I'd be on my feet." Siegel Alonso says Micthell's mastery of weaving personal tales with universal emotions creates a deeply intimate listening experience.
Joni Mitchell's innovative musical compositions complement her lyrical prowess. She often employs unusual guitar chord progressions and tunings, which add a distinctive color to her songs. This type of musical experimentation, combined with Joni's introspective verses, invites listeners into her world, offering comfort and understanding. Mitchell has formed a timeless bond with her audience through her artistry, demonstrating that the most intimate, private songs often resonate the most universally.
**The voice of the civil rights movement ** Nina Simone's songwriting is a powerful testament to music's role in social activism. Known for her unusual, soulful voice and fiery performances, Simone used her platform to address racial injustice, inequality, and civil rights issues. Her lyrics tend to be a call to action, urging her listeners to reflect on the unjust world and strive for change.
Simone's song "Mississippi Goddam" is a prime example of her fearless approach to songwriting. Written in response to the murder of Medgar Evers and the bombing of a church in Birmingham, Alabama, the song's cutting lyrics combined with its upbeat tempo create a startling contrast that underscores the urgency of her message. "Alabama's gotten me so upset / Tennessee made me lose my rest / And everybody knows about Mississippi Goddam." Through her craft, Simone shared the frustration and fury of the Civil Rights Movement, galvanizing her listeners to join in the fight for justice.
Another poignant example is her track "Four Women," which tells the stories of four African American women, each representing different aspects of the Black experience in America. Simone's lyrics powerfully explore identity, resilience, and oppression, with each character's narrative spotlighting broader social issues. Her talent to articulate the suffering and strength of her community through her lyrics has left an indelible mark on the music industry and the world.
The art of songwriting is more than just crafting words to fit a melody; it is about creating a connection between the artist and the listener. Lou Reed, Joni Mitchell, and Nina Simone each exemplify this in their unique ways. Reed's gritty realism, Mitchell's poetic introspection, and Simone's passionate activism all demonstrate the transformative power of lyrics.
Through their songs, these artists have touched countless lives, offering comfort, understanding, and inspiration. Their lyrics serve as a reminder that music is a universal language, capable of bridging divides and fostering empathy. The art of songwriting, as demonstrated by these legendary figures, is a profound way of connecting with the human experience, transcending time and place to reach the hearts of listeners everywhere.
In a world where words can often feel inadequate, Siegel Alonso offers that the right lyrics can express the breadth and depth of human emotion and experience. Whether through Lou Reed's uncomfortable honesty, Joni Mitchell's emotive landscapes, or Nina Simone's fervent activism, the art of songwriting continues to be a vital force in connecting humanity.
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@ 8d5ba92c:c6c3ecd5
2025-04-25 09:14:46Money is more than just a medium of exchange—it’s the current that drives economies, the lifeblood of societies, and the pulse of civilization itself. When money decays, so does the culture it sustains. Take fiat, for example. Created out of thin air and inflated into oblivion, it acts like poison—rewarding conformity over sovereignty, speculation over creation, and exploitation over collaboration.
A culture built this way fails to foster true progress. Instead, it pushes us into darker corners where creativity and truth become increasingly scarce.
From the food we eat to the media we consume, much of modern culture has become a reflection of this problem—prioritizing shortcuts, convenience, and profit at any cost. It seems there’s no room left for depth, authenticity, or connection anymore.
Art, for example—once a sacred space for meaning, and inner calling—has not been spared either. Stripped of its purpose, it too falls into gloom, weaponized to divide and manipulate rather than inspire beauty and growth.
“Art is the lie that reveals the truth” as Picasso once said.
Indeed, this intriguing perspective highlights the subjectivity of truth and the many ways art can be interpreted. While creative expression doesn’t always need to mirror reality one-to-one—actually, often reshaping it through the creator’s lens—much of what we’re surrounded with these days feels like a dangerous illusion built on the rotten incentives of decaying values.
The movies we watch, the music we hear, and the stories we absorb from books, articles, ads, and commercials—are too often crafted to condition specific behaviors. Greed, laziness, overconsumption, ignorance (feel free to add to this list). Instead of enriching our culture, they disconnect us from each other, as well as from our own minds, hearts, and souls.
If you see yourself as a Bitcoiner—or, as I like to call it, ‘a freedom fighter at heart’—and you care about building a world based on truth, freedom, and prosperity, please recognize that culture is also our battleground.
Artistic forms act as transformative forces in the fight against the status quo.
Join me and the hundreds of guests this May at Bitcoin FilmFest 2025.
You don’t have to be a creative person in the traditional sense—like a filmmaker, writer, painter, sculptor, musician, and so on—to have a direct impact on culture!
One way or another, you engage with creative realms anyway. The deeper you connect with them, the better you understand the reality we live in versus the future humanity deserves.
I know the process may take time, but I truly believe it’s possible. Unfiat The Culture!
Bitcoin FilmFest 2025. May 22-25, Warsaw, Poland.
The third annual edition of a unique event built at the intersection of independent films, art, and culture.
“Your narrative begins where centralized scripts end—explore the uncharted stories beyond the cinema.” - Details: bitcoinfilmfest.com/bff25/ - Grab 10% off your tickets with code YAKIHONNE!
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@ f18b1f8f:5f442454
2025-04-25 09:08:02218684c8f0ba4c869250d3a2e6875c20
Retrograde, or "Emma", is a talent management agent for content creators. The interface is efficient - e-mail in, correspondence gets analysed and actions taken on behalf of a client. It helps clients manage deals and opportunities. Founded by Grace Beverley, Jake Browne and Gary Meehan.
Listing: https://agentlist.com/agent/218684c8f0ba4c869250d3a2e6875c20
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@ 5188521b:008eb518
2025-04-25 08:06:11Ecology
When my father died, an entire ecosystem of beneficiaries withered. Moussa Ag El Khir funded scholarships and community projects, paying thousands of Dinars monthly to stop the oasis town of In Salah from burning up. The few families we knew operating outside the oil-field economy would be forced to flee to the Mediterranean coast, along with just about every other Berber.
It wasn’t unexpected. My father had cystic fibrosis for all sixty-one years of his life. So far, that’s the only legacy he’s passed on to his children. My brothers are just carriers, but me, his precious daughter ended up like him in more ways than one.
We sat there in the lawyer’s office in Algiers, my brothers and I, staring at the ledger which contained payment for his life’s work.
“And he only left one word in his will?” asked Ibrahim for the third time. Ecology.
The lawyer said Moussa was very clear. He chose each of the keys himself. The contents of the ledger would belong to whoever could decode his life — those who understood the real meaning. Then he cut all communications and walked into the Sahara. The Tuareg caravan on the road to Akabli found his body a week later, reddened by sand burn.
Earth
We made an agreement that day. To share each word we discovered. We could break the code together. Of course, Ibrahim and Hama didn’t share anything. We barely speak. That’s what happens when one child follows their father into science, and her two brothers move to France the minute they get rich enough to buy a wife. I bet they spent longer looking into legal loopholes to get their hands on my father’s assets than they did trying to identify the keys.
That day was the start of my second life, and I went from research assistant at a regional university to private-key detective. 2048 words and few clues where to start. Although I was 27, I was virtually a grandmother according to the In Salah wives. But of course, I could never be a grandmother, or even a mother. Every night, I scoured photos in the family archive. An initial sweep of his digital footprint returned no out-of-place instances of any keywords.
It took me a year to find the GPS tag he’d added to one photo — an eighteen-year-old daughter standing next to a father proud of his first infinite solar prototype. The panel has long-since been torn out by the oil corp, but the base is still there. I drove the three kilometres from the town limit and shone the high beams at the spot. When I got out, the air was cool but still thick with sand. A few more steps through sinking dunes, and I saw it. He’d scratched a little globe into the blistered metal, and for a moment, my mucus-laden lungs tasted clear air.
Trigger
The next word took three years. Friends, contacts, professors, biographers — visits to anyone with whom he might have left a clue. But it was in the In Salah hospital, where, upon a routine CF checkup with Jerome Devailier, a French doctor, ‘trigger’ appeared. The government might stack everything against the desert peoples, but they hadn’t taken away healthcare. I’d been living off the kindness of neighbours while finishing my thesis on the very solar technology my father developed. How could he have known the ‘buyer’ was just a tendril of the very oil company he sought to defeat.
Dr Devalier went through the list of carcinogens and allergens to avoid with my new drugs. Over forty triggers which could be my downfall. If I was lucky, I’d live as long as my father did.
By then, my research stipend was long gone. I existed on toughened bread and soup, which always carried the taste of the scorched city air. Yet, I stayed. The public library, disconnected from the grid by the oil corp, was where I finished my manuscript. They would fight its publication. Since father’s money no longer flowed into the town, many had deserted me. There were those who said he killed an entire people by selling his solar patent to the wrong buyers. Others in In Salah worshipped his name, but eventually, they all trudged north to the cities. My brothers sold the family home from under me, forcing me to follow.
When I returned from the hospital, I dug out my father’s medical documents. On every page, the word ‘trigger’ was underlined. That was the moment I knew my life’s work would be unlocking the ledger, not publishing studies on long-dead solar panel technology. That battle was lost.
They
All we need is a simple document, but here, it is the administrators’ job to send people away. Physical copies are only issued in extreme circumstances. Citizens’ Registry screens played endless repetitions of how to apply for digital documents. The shrill voices of family members desperate for the original copy of a pirated document drowned the TV messaging. Women removed headscarves and revealed thick black hair; teenagers paced. The atmosphere thickened with sweat. And hours passed. Each appointment required a reset of digital protocol, biometric tests, and identity cards from legal descendents. Through counterfeit identities, our Dinars leak into the hands of criminals, but still the government denies the need for bitcoin. They just print more money. They is the word my father used for the government that fought his patent so hard.
After a four-hour wait, I discovered that the physical death certificate included an ‘identifying mark’ on the deceased’s body. The ink was fresh — etched into the shoulder blade of a man who wished to turn his back on the government that ignored its people. The tattoo read aqqalan, the Tamasheq word for they.
Scheme
It took two trips to his cluttered Marseille office to convince him I was serious. Two visas, two flights, and the small amount from the sale of the family house. But few detectives wanted to work for a promise.
The ledger could not legally be owned in Algeria, and Laurent Mercier was the only serious professional who entertained a percentage of what was on there. The solar tech patent and documents from my father were enough to start Laurent on the trail. ‘Preliminary,’ he said, until I had the ledger in my possession.
“Flying is not easy with my condition,” I said.
He lowered his sunglasses. “Working is not easy without money.”
Contact with my brother through the lawyer in Algiers was achingly slow, but eventually they agreed to give me possession. What was 33% of nothing anyway? Years had gone by.
So, when I sat for the second time, in the sweaty office in Marseille, I gave Laurent the ledger, and he handed me a surprise. In all his business affairs, my father used little English, but the word ‘scheme’ appeared in all three company names he incorporated in the last three years of his life. We had our fifth word, and I finally had someone on my side.
Make
Some days, I could barely walk to the public library. I became lethargic and mostly sat in the cool dark of my room in the shelter. The government refused to provide housing outside of Algiers, but a Tuareg organisation from Mali opened a shelter in In Salah. Bulging eyes and faded clothes stared back in the mirror each day. How long had it been since I’d been to a wedding, or celebrated a friend’s child? Occupants came and went, and all that was left was a barren room and one meal per day.
As the sun punished the city with every ray of Allah’s untapped gift, streets grew thick with dust, and the local government fell, seat by seat, to oil execs. The only transport running was to and from the oil fields, which belched the remnants of the land into the sky. And still they worked. Still they sat on my father’s patent and refused to supply the world with efficient solar power.
With little else to cling onto, I harboured thoughts of how I could spend the ledger money. Fixing the town and replanting lost gardens. Bringing people back. That all took a back seat to decoding the message my father was sending. Laurent and I began to believe that the keys he chose formed some sort of instruction for his legacy.
Ten years to the day after his death, I was in the public library, looking for clues in an English history book. On my exit, the librarian stopped me.
“We have a gift for you, Kana.”
I waited while he fetched a package.
“Your father instructed me to give this to you. But not before this date.”
My hands tore open the package. More books, technical manuals, and hand-written notes. Amongst the papers was a tasselled leather bookmark embossed with the four letters that comprised one of the seven missing words. Make.
Citizen
It’s hard for a father in Algeria to admit to his daughter that she is his spirit — the heir to his life’s work. Of course he felt terrible guilt after our mother’s passing. That was when the letters started.
Moussa wrote to himself really, trying to come to terms with bringing a protégé into the world with a bright scientific mind and lungs that would snap her life expectancy. We communicated by letter for the last few years of his life — sharing the breakthroughs of his findings and what it might mean for our decaying oasis town. Analogue writing was the only real privacy, he said. His letters always ran to the same length, as if they were one lesson divided into equal chunks. We even exchanged letters during his last hospitalisation in Algiers. Those words were the only real strength I gained.
It was Laurent who analysed the letters with a new text scanning tool. For me, my father’s last letters were advice, regret, pain, and love, but to Laurent, they were simply a puzzle to solve to get one step closer.
Our letters gave Laurent the idea to communicate via physical mail. The process was painful, with letters sent from outlying towns before being shipped across the Alboran Sea and up into France. Muatin was one name my father called me. Like him, I dreamed of helping many through science. This was one of the few Arabic words in the French letters he wrote. It was also the only keyword included in any of the letters. Citizen.
When
Years of quiet followed. In Salah became unlivable after they co-opted the city reservoir for cooling drilling rigs. Each study that proved the field was still viable funnelled funds away from the locals who clung on. Resettlement benefits went up, and all but the semi-nomadic Tuaregs left. I followed. My health could not take much more desert. In the cooler coastal plains, I recovered strength, and subsidies for new medications helped me survive on a meagre teaching salary.
With no further clues, my Marseillais detective lost interest. His last letter, sent years ago, stated with unusual brevity that he was resigning the case. No payment was due.
I had lost my health, my father, his work, my money, our house, the town, and I spent each week delivering science and English classes to teenagers. They had no more hope for our country than I had. Algerians had already lost the Sahara. A one-degree temperature shift each decade of my life had shrunk Africa and sent its peoples northwards.
My father’s word puzzle occupied my thoughts. The combinations and permutations of letters and characters had millions of possible meanings but only one correct answer. Yet simple linguistic logic provided the next word. The headteacher was a linguist — a profession long lost to the higher-powered text analysers and language AI. He spoke little English but asked about the categorisations of grammatical terms in the 2048 key words.
“Why do you ask?”
“Because,” he said, “for a sentence of twelve words, at least one conjunction is necessary to form a second clause.”
He was right. I had been focussing on lists and complex codes to build my father’s motto. When I got home, I furiously searched my list of terms for conjunctions. I found only one. ‘When.’
Can
The permutations were still huge. Even eliminating some of the more conceptual words did not help. Millions of sentences existed in my dead father’s mind. Millions of meanings, all lost to the need for more energy to fund the world’s great thirst for energy. Still, the panels in most of the ‘dead middle’ (as the space between the tropics became known) melted at over 50 degrees.
I was back in Paris for CF treatment. As a young woman, I would have been pleased to make fifty years. But the realities of daily visits and the sickness brought on by medication stung. I wanted things to end, even when I discovered the next key.
It had been years since I had dreamed of the freedoms my father’s fortune could bring. Parts of Asia held out against bitcoin, but the cost of countries doing business off-network had become prohibitive. Eventually, the fossil conglomerates would give in to the need for solar mining and the provision of universal energy.
It was in a Parisian hospital bed that I discovered ‘can.’ My wardmate, a rough labourer from Oran, found a biography in the hospital library that made me sit up straight. ‘Can’ was repeated in almost every description of my father in his one-time business partner’s book. And it was this Arabian ‘businessman,’ Abdulkarim Rahman, who brokered the deal that robbed the world of infinite solar power. Each page mocked my father as believing only physical impossibilities are impossible. He branded him the ‘can man.’
Drastic
During my recuperation, I spent the final two weeks of my visa stay in Marseille. My days passed with endless algorithm tweaks to reject or accept word orders for the elusive twelve-word sentence my father once wrote.
Food lost its taste, and friends and colleagues in academia had scattered. In-person meetings were often contained to the night hours, but Marseille was not a place to go out after dark. The latest protests had gotten violent, and the government looked likely to topple. My people had always been resilient, but when the option to move and operate a caravan was removed by General Hafiz, part of my spirit died. I resolved to spend my final years in In Salah, however uncomfortable they would be.
My final port of call before returning was Laurent’s office. The eTaxi cast me out into the dusty street, and I wheezed as I climbed the three flights of stairs to his tiny door on Rue Marché. We hadn’t spoken in years, but I was surprised to find a different name about the door. Pascale Dupont, Investigateur.
The assistant I remembered was quite the opposite to Laurent — slow and methodical, short and heavy set.
“Madame,” he said. “I have difficult news.”
Their business had always straddled the law, but I never imagined an ex-officer of the law could be convicted of treason.
“A closed-door trial,” said Pascale. Then he handed over an air-gapped 3D storage file. “Laurent knew you would come for this.”
My mind cast forward to the reams of information he must have built on my father. The patents and technical diagrams he illegally acquired and other clues. I instantly recognised the brand of storage file as a keyword. Drastic.
“How can I thank him?”
“He is dead, madame.” Pascale hung his head. “He survived prison for only two weeks.”
Must
My final years brought me home. In Salah had gained fame for its one group of Tuaregs who refused to leave. The Lakzis owned a house in a desperate condition, not dissimilar to my failing body. By the age of fifty-two, I could no longer walk, but they welcomed me. I pooled my disability allowance and some money I’d gained from selling my father’s watch. We waited for the world to mourn the death of a once great city. We would keep it alive by refusing to move, by refusing to permit its rebranding as an ‘industrial area.’ Now the oil fields were finally drying up, they wanted to dig under the town.
We had managed to eliminate half of the remaining words. Just under 1,000 possible selections for the final two words, but little idea of an order.
The problem was that I was the only English speaker among them, and it took great energy to attempt to teach the meaning of the words and possible grammatical constructions for my father’s sentence.
But soon, patterns began to emerge. Fragments of word pairings and groups. ‘Trigger drastic scheme’ appeared again and again in the permutations. ‘They can’ and ‘When they can’ gave a tantalising glimpse. We ranked sentences in terms of likelihood to form the full key and categorised them by the most likely remaining words. Due to the need for a modal verb, ‘must’ scored highest by our calculations.
In this race to unlock the ledger before In Salah’s destruction, we nosed ahead.
Yet the day of that discovery was my final day in the desert. An air ambulance transported my feeble body to Algiers, and I would never return.
They messaged me — so close. They would unlock the ledger with the final word after my operation. The bitcoin could undo the wrongs of the past, and my father’s sentence would live on.
End
The phrase which began the global revolution first appeared on the wall of a much-disputed oil refinery in the desert outside In Salah, Algeria.
When they can make ecology end, citizen earth must trigger drastic scheme
Soon, the graffiti marked government buildings in Algiers. Activists took to the streets. Governments crumbled and currencies collapsed. Climate groups received massive donations said to come from ‘the one,’ a ledger with a huge stack written off by financiers the world over. The codebreaker credited with unlocking the ledger was unable to witness the transfer of 10,000 coins to the Global Climate Fund due to her death, aged 52, from a congenital condition.
The words of Moussa Ag El Khir now mark each of the millions of panels, which line the ‘dead middle.’ They contribute over 80% of the Earth’s power supply.
To mark the fiftieth anniversary of his death, the World Climate Forum will be held in the town of his birth, In Salah, Algeria. This story, compiled from the diaries of his daughter, Kana Ult El Khir, will be read as the opening address of the conference.
This story was originally published in 21 Futures: Tales From the Timechain
To continue the story of the real-world treasure (sats) use the address (it's real).\ Who knows, maybe some zaps will find their way into the wallet...
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@ 866e0139:6a9334e5
2025-04-25 08:01:51Autor: Sabrina Khalil. Dieser Beitrag wurde mit dem Pareto-Client geschrieben. Sie finden alle Texte der Friedenstaube und weitere Texte zum Thema Frieden hier. Die neuesten Pareto-Artikel finden Sie in unserem Telegram-Kanal.
Die neuesten Artikel der Friedenstaube gibt es jetzt auch im eigenen Friedenstaube-Telegram-Kanal.
„Immer wieder ist jetzt“ übertitelt unsere Sprecherin Sabrina Khalil ihren Text, den sie für die Friedensnoten geschrieben hat. Das gleichnamige Gedicht hat Jens Fischer Rodrian vertont. Sabrina Khalil ist Schauspielerin, Musikerin und Sprecherin, u.a. für Radio München.
Das gleichnamige Gedicht hat Jens Fischer Rodrian für das Album "Voices for Gaza" vertont.
https://protestnoten.de/produkt/voices-for-gaza-doppel-cd/
Sprecher des Textes: Ulrich Allroggen
Dieser Beitrag erschien zuerst bei Radio München.
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Sie sind noch nicht auf Nostr and wollen die volle Erfahrung machen (liken, kommentieren etc.)? Zappen können Sie den Autor auch ohne Nostr-Profil! Erstellen Sie sich einen Account auf Start. Weitere Onboarding-Leitfäden gibt es im Pareto-Wiki.
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@ 2b24a1fa:17750f64
2025-04-25 07:11:19„Immer wieder ist jetzt“ übertitelt unsere Sprecherin Sabrina Khalil ihren Text, den sie für die Friedensnoten geschrieben hat. Das gleichnamige Gedicht hat Jens Fischer Rodrian für das Album "Voices for Gaza" vertont.
https://protestnoten.de/produkt/voices-for-gaza-doppel-cd/ https://bfan.link/voices-for-gaza
Sprecher des Textes: Ulrich Allroggen
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@ a93be9fb:6d3fdc0c
2025-04-25 07:10:52This is a tmp article
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@ d34e832d:383f78d0
2025-04-25 07:09:361. Premise
The demand for high-capacity hard drives has grown exponentially with the expansion of cloud storage, big data, and personal backups. As failure of a storage device can result in significant data loss and downtime, understanding long-term drive reliability is critical. This research seeks to determine the most reliable manufacturer of 10TB+ HDDs by analyzing cumulative drive failure data over ten years from Backblaze, a leader in cloud backup services.
2. Methodology
Data from Backblaze, representing 350,000+ deployed drives, was analyzed to calculate the AFR of 10TB+ models from Seagate, Western Digital (including HGST), and Toshiba. AFR was calculated using cumulative data to reduce volatility and better illustrate long-term reliability trends. Power-on hours were used as the temporal metric to more accurately capture usage-based wear, as opposed to calendar-based aging.
3. Results and Analysis
3.1 Western Digital (including HGST)
- Ultrastar HC530 & HC550 (14TB & 16TB)
- AFR consistently below 0.35% after the initial “burn-in” period.
- Exhibited superior long-term stability.
- HGST Ultrastar HC520 (12TB)
- Demonstrated robust performance with AFR consistently under 0.5%.
- Excellent aging profile after year one.
3.2 Toshiba
- General Performance
- Noted for higher early failure rates (DOA issues), indicating manufacturing or transport inconsistencies.
- After stabilization, most models showed AFRs under 1%, which is within acceptable industry standards.
- Model Variability
- Differences in AFR observed between 4Kn and 512e sector models, suggesting firmware or controller differences may influence longevity.
3.3 Seagate
- Older Models (e.g., Exos X12)
- AFRs often exceeded 1.5%, raising concerns for long-term use in mission-critical applications.
- Newer Models (e.g., Exos X16)
- Improvements seen, with AFRs around 1%, though still higher than WD and HGST counterparts.
- Seagate’s aggressive pricing often makes these drives more attractive for cost-sensitive deployments.
4. Points Drawn
The data reveals a compelling narrative in brand-level reliability trends among high-capacity hard drives. Western Digital, especially through its HGST-derived Ultrastar product lines, consistently demonstrates superior reliability, maintaining exceptionally low Annualized Failure Rates (AFRs) and excellent operational stability across extended use periods. This positions WD as the most dependable option for enterprise-grade and mission-critical storage environments. Toshiba, despite a tendency toward higher early failure rates—often manifesting as Dead-on-Arrival (DOA) units—generally stabilizes to acceptable AFR levels below 1% over time. This indicates potential suitability in deployments where early failure screening and redundancy planning are feasible. In contrast, Seagate’s performance is notably variable. While earlier models displayed higher AFRs, more recent iterations such as the Exos X16 series have shown marked improvement. Nevertheless, Seagate drives continue to exhibit greater fluctuation in reliability outcomes. Their comparatively lower cost structure, however, may render them an attractive option in cost-sensitive or non-critical storage environments, where performance variability is an acceptable trade-off.
It’s crucial to remember that AFR is a probabilistic measure; individual drive failures are still possible regardless of brand or model. Furthermore, newer drive models need additional longitudinal data to confirm their long-term reliability.
5. Consider
Best Overall Choice: Western Digital Ultrastar HC530/HC550
These drives combine top-tier reliability (AFR < 0.35%), mature firmware, and consistent manufacturing quality, making them ideal for enterprise and archival use.Runner-Up (Budget Consideration): Seagate Exos X16
While reliability is slightly lower (AFR ~1%), the Exos series offers excellent value, especially for bulk storage.Cautionary Choice: Toshiba 10TB+ Models
Users should be prepared for potential early failures and may consider pre-deployment burn-in testing.
6. Recommendations for Buyers
- For mission-critical environments: Choose Western Digital Ultrastar models.
- For budget-focused or secondary storage: Seagate Exos offers acceptable risk-to-cost ratio.
- For experimental or non-essential deployments: Toshiba drives post-burn-in are serviceable.
7. Future Work
Based on publicly available Backblaze data, which reflects data center use and may not perfectly map to home or SMB environments. Sample sizes vary by model and may bias certain conclusions. Future research could integrate SMART data analytics, firmware version tracking, and consumer-use data to provide more granular insight.
References
- Backblaze. (2013–2023). Hard Drive Stats. Retrieved from https://www.backblaze.com/blog
- Manufacturer datasheets and reliability reports for Seagate, Western Digital, and Toshiba. -
@ bf95e1a4:ebdcc848
2025-04-25 07:10:07This is a part of the Bitcoin Infinity Academy course on Knut Svanholm's book Bitcoin: Sovereignty Through Mathematics. For more information, check out our Geyser page!
Scarcity
What makes a commodity scarce? What is scarcity in the first place? What other properties can be deducted from an object’s scarcity? How are scarcity, energy, time, and value connected? Scarcity might seem easy to describe on the surface, but in reality, it’s not. Not when you take infinity into account. Infinity is a concept that has puzzled the human mind for as long as it has been able to imagine it. If it ever has. It is a very abstract concept, and it’s always linked to time simply because even imagining an infinite number would take an infinite amount of time. If we truly live in an infinite universe, scarcity cannot exist. If something exists in an infinite universe, an infinite number of copies of this something must also exist since the probability of this being true would also be infinite in an infinite universe. Therefore, scarcity must always be defined within a set framework. No frame, no scarcity.
Think of it this way: the most expensive artwork ever sold at the time of writing was the Salvator Mundi, painted by Leonardo da Vinci. It’s not even a particularly beautiful painting, so why the high price? Because Da Vinci originals are scarce. A poster of the painting isn’t expensive at all, but the original will cost you at least 450 million US Dollars. All because we agree to frame its scarcity around the notion that it is a Da Vinci original, of which under twenty exist today. Historically, scarcity has always been framed around real-world limits to the supply of a good. Most of the great thinkers of the Austrian school of economics from the twentieth century believed that the value of a monetary good arises from its scarcity and that scarcity is always connected to the real-world availability of that good. Most of them believed that a gold standard would be the hardest form of money that we would ever see and the closest thing to an absolutely scarce resource as we would ever know.
In the late 90’s, the cryptographers that laid the groundwork for what would become Bitcoin reimagined scarcity as anything with an unforgeable costliness. This mindset is key to understanding the connection between scarcity and value. Anything can be viewed as scarce if it’s sufficiently hard to produce and hard to fake the production cost of — in other words, easy to verify the validity of. The zeros at the beginning of a hashed Bitcoin block are the Proof of Work that proves that the created coins in that block were costly to produce. People who promote the idea that the mining algorithm used to produce Bitcoin could be more environmentally friendly or streamlined are either deliberately lying or missing the point. The energy expenditure is the very thing that gives the token its value because it provides proof to the network that enough computing power was sacrificed in order to keep the network sufficiently decentralized and thus resistant to change. "Easy to verify" is the flipside of the "unforgeable costliness" coin. The validity of a Bitcoin block is very easy to verify since all you need to do is look at its hash, make sure the block is part of the strongest chain, and that it conforms to all consensus rules. In order to check whether a gold bar is real or not, you probably need to trust a third party. Fiat money often comes with a plethora of water stamps, holograms, and metal stripes, so in a sense, they’re hard to forge. What you cannot know about a fiat currency at any given moment, though, is how much of it is in circulation. What you do know about fiat currencies is that they’re not scarce.
Bitcoin provides us with absolute scarcity for the first time in human history. It is a remarkable breakthrough. Even though you can’t make jewelry or anything else out of Bitcoin, its total supply is fixed. After the year 2140, after the last Bitcoin has been mined, the total amount of Bitcoin in circulation can only go down. This limited supply is what the gold standards of the past were there for in the first place. Bitcoin’s supply is much more limited than that of gold, however, since they will be lost as time goes by. Since the supply is so limited, it doesn’t matter what the current demand is. The potential upside to its value is literally limitless due to this relationship between supply and demand. The “backing” that other currencies have is only there to assume people that the currency will keep its value over time, and the only way of ensuring this is to limit the supply. Bitcoin does this better than any other thing before it. Leonardo da Vinci’s original paintings are extremely valuable because of Leonardo’s brand name and the fact that there are only about 13 of them left. One day there’ll be less than one left. The same is true for Bitcoin.
Scarcity on the Internet was long believed to be an impossible invention, and it took a multi-talented genius such as Satoshi Nakamoto to figure out all the different parts that make Bitcoin so much more than the sum of them. His disappearance from the project was one such part, maybe the most important one. The thing about computerized scarcity is that it was a one-time invention. Once it was invented, the invention could not be recreated. That’s just the nature of data. Computers are designed to be able to replicate any data set any number of times. This is true for every piece of code there is, and digital scarcity needed to be framed somehow to work. Bitcoin’s consensus rules provided such a frame. Bitcoin certainly seems to provide true digital scarcity, and if the game theoretical theories that it builds on are correct, its promise of an ever-increasing value will be a self-fulfilling prophecy.
In 2018, the inflation rate of the Venezuelan Bolivar was a staggering 80,000%. Hugo Chavez and his successor, Nicolas Maduro, effectively killed the Venezuelan economy with socialism. It has happened before — and sadly, it is likely to happen again. The main problem with socialism is not that people aren’t incentivized to work in socialist countries. On the contrary, hungry people under the threat of violence tend to work harder than most. The problem with state-owned production is that there is no free market price mechanism to reflect the true demand for goods and, therefore, no way of knowing how much supply the state should produce. Everything is in constant surplus or shortage — often the latter, as the empty supermarket shelves in Venezuela depressingly attest. Chavez and Maduro attempted to rescue the country’s economy by printing more money — which simply does not work. Their true motives for printing money are, of course, questionable given that it depreciated the value of Bolivar bills to less than that of toilet paper. As mentioned in earlier chapters, inflation is the greatest hidden threat to themselves that humans have ever created.
A few hundred years ago, the Catholic Church held the lion’s share of political power throughout Europe. Today, power primarily resides with nation-states in collusion with multinational corporations. The separation of church and state triggered the migration of power from the former to the latter, emancipating many citizens in the process. Still, places like Venezuela are sad proof that “the people” are still not in power in many self-proclaimed democracies — if in any, for that matter. Another separation will have to take place first: The separation of money and state. We, the people of Planet Earth, now have the means at our disposal for this separation to take place. Whether we use them or not will determine how emancipated and independent our children can and will be in the future.
About the Bitcoin Infinity Academy
The Bitcoin Infinity Academy is an educational project built around Knut Svanholm’s books about Bitcoin and Austrian Economics. Each week, a whole chapter from one of the books is released for free on Highlighter, accompanied by a video in which Knut and Luke de Wolf discuss that chapter’s ideas. You can join the discussions by signing up for one of the courses on our Geyser page. Signed books, monthly calls, and lots of other benefits are also available.
-
@ bf95e1a4:ebdcc848
2025-04-25 07:10:01This is a part of the Bitcoin Infinity Academy course on Knut Svanholm's book Bitcoin: Sovereignty Through Mathematics. For more information, check out our Geyser page!
Scarcity
What makes a commodity scarce? What is scarcity in the first place? What other properties can be deducted from an object’s scarcity? How are scarcity, energy, time, and value connected? Scarcity might seem easy to describe on the surface, but in reality, it’s not. Not when you take infinity into account. Infinity is a concept that has puzzled the human mind for as long as it has been able to imagine it. If it ever has. It is a very abstract concept, and it’s always linked to time simply because even imagining an infinite number would take an infinite amount of time. If we truly live in an infinite universe, scarcity cannot exist. If something exists in an infinite universe, an infinite number of copies of this something must also exist since the probability of this being true would also be infinite in an infinite universe. Therefore, scarcity must always be defined within a set framework. No frame, no scarcity.
Think of it this way: the most expensive artwork ever sold at the time of writing was the Salvator Mundi, painted by Leonardo da Vinci. It’s not even a particularly beautiful painting, so why the high price? Because Da Vinci originals are scarce. A poster of the painting isn’t expensive at all, but the original will cost you at least 450 million US Dollars. All because we agree to frame its scarcity around the notion that it is a Da Vinci original, of which under twenty exist today. Historically, scarcity has always been framed around real-world limits to the supply of a good. Most of the great thinkers of the Austrian school of economics from the twentieth century believed that the value of a monetary good arises from its scarcity and that scarcity is always connected to the real-world availability of that good. Most of them believed that a gold standard would be the hardest form of money that we would ever see and the closest thing to an absolutely scarce resource as we would ever know.
In the late 90’s, the cryptographers that laid the groundwork for what would become Bitcoin reimagined scarcity as anything with an unforgeable costliness. This mindset is key to understanding the connection between scarcity and value. Anything can be viewed as scarce if it’s sufficiently hard to produce and hard to fake the production cost of — in other words, easy to verify the validity of. The zeros at the beginning of a hashed Bitcoin block are the Proof of Work that proves that the created coins in that block were costly to produce. People who promote the idea that the mining algorithm used to produce Bitcoin could be more environmentally friendly or streamlined are either deliberately lying or missing the point. The energy expenditure is the very thing that gives the token its value because it provides proof to the network that enough computing power was sacrificed in order to keep the network sufficiently decentralized and thus resistant to change. "Easy to verify" is the flipside of the "unforgeable costliness" coin. The validity of a Bitcoin block is very easy to verify since all you need to do is look at its hash, make sure the block is part of the strongest chain, and that it conforms to all consensus rules. In order to check whether a gold bar is real or not, you probably need to trust a third party. Fiat money often comes with a plethora of water stamps, holograms, and metal stripes, so in a sense, they’re hard to forge. What you cannot know about a fiat currency at any given moment, though, is how much of it is in circulation. What you do know about fiat currencies is that they’re not scarce.
Bitcoin provides us with absolute scarcity for the first time in human history. It is a remarkable breakthrough. Even though you can’t make jewelry or anything else out of Bitcoin, its total supply is fixed. After the year 2140, after the last Bitcoin has been mined, the total amount of Bitcoin in circulation can only go down. This limited supply is what the gold standards of the past were there for in the first place. Bitcoin’s supply is much more limited than that of gold, however, since they will be lost as time goes by. Since the supply is so limited, it doesn’t matter what the current demand is. The potential upside to its value is literally limitless due to this relationship between supply and demand. The “backing” that other currencies have is only there to assume people that the currency will keep its value over time, and the only way of ensuring this is to limit the supply. Bitcoin does this better than any other thing before it. Leonardo da Vinci’s original paintings are extremely valuable because of Leonardo’s brand name and the fact that there are only about 13 of them left. One day there’ll be less than one left. The same is true for Bitcoin.
Scarcity on the Internet was long believed to be an impossible invention, and it took a multi-talented genius such as Satoshi Nakamoto to figure out all the different parts that make Bitcoin so much more than the sum of them. His disappearance from the project was one such part, maybe the most important one. The thing about computerized scarcity is that it was a one-time invention. Once it was invented, the invention could not be recreated. That’s just the nature of data. Computers are designed to be able to replicate any data set any number of times. This is true for every piece of code there is, and digital scarcity needed to be framed somehow to work. Bitcoin’s consensus rules provided such a frame. Bitcoin certainly seems to provide true digital scarcity, and if the game theoretical theories that it builds on are correct, its promise of an ever-increasing value will be a self-fulfilling prophecy.
In 2018, the inflation rate of the Venezuelan Bolivar was a staggering 80,000%. Hugo Chavez and his successor, Nicolas Maduro, effectively killed the Venezuelan economy with socialism. It has happened before — and sadly, it is likely to happen again. The main problem with socialism is not that people aren’t incentivized to work in socialist countries. On the contrary, hungry people under the threat of violence tend to work harder than most. The problem with state-owned production is that there is no free market price mechanism to reflect the true demand for goods and, therefore, no way of knowing how much supply the state should produce. Everything is in constant surplus or shortage — often the latter, as the empty supermarket shelves in Venezuela depressingly attest. Chavez and Maduro attempted to rescue the country’s economy by printing more money — which simply does not work. Their true motives for printing money are, of course, questionable given that it depreciated the value of Bolivar bills to less than that of toilet paper. As mentioned in earlier chapters, inflation is the greatest hidden threat to themselves that humans have ever created.
A few hundred years ago, the Catholic Church held the lion’s share of political power throughout Europe. Today, power primarily resides with nation-states in collusion with multinational corporations. The separation of church and state triggered the migration of power from the former to the latter, emancipating many citizens in the process. Still, places like Venezuela are sad proof that “the people” are still not in power in many self-proclaimed democracies — if in any, for that matter. Another separation will have to take place first: The separation of money and state. We, the people of Planet Earth, now have the means at our disposal for this separation to take place. Whether we use them or not will determine how emancipated and independent our children can and will be in the future.
About the Bitcoin Infinity Academy
The Bitcoin Infinity Academy is an educational project built around Knut Svanholm’s books about Bitcoin and Austrian Economics. Each week, a whole chapter from one of the books is released for free on Highlighter, accompanied by a video in which Knut and Luke de Wolf discuss that chapter’s ideas. You can join the discussions by signing up for one of the courses on our Geyser page. Signed books, monthly calls, and lots of other benefits are also available.
-
@ 2b24a1fa:17750f64
2025-04-25 07:09:25Wo, wenn nicht in Dresden, sollte man sich einig sein, in der Frage nach „Krieg oder Frieden“? Doch 80 Jahre nach der flächendeckenden Brandbombardierung Dresdens macht sich in dieser Stadt wieder verdächtig, wer so etwas selbstverständliches wie Frieden einfordert.
Am vergangenen Karfreitag fand eine große Friedensprozession in der sächsischen Metropole statt. Kriegerisch jedoch war die Berichterstattung. Mit Falschbehauptungen und verdrehungen wurde die Friedensaktion und deren Akteure beschädigt. Dorne im Auge der Betrachter waren womöglich Dieter Hallervorden und die Politologin Ulrike Guérot mit Reden, die dringender nicht sein könnten. Ulrike Guérot stellte zugleich das European Peace Project vor, das am 9. Mai mit jedem einzelnen von uns in ganz Europa stattfindet.
Der Liedermacher Jens Fischer Rodrian war am Karfreitag ebenfalls vor Ort und widmete der Rede von Guérot eine Friedensnote. Hören Sie seinen Beitrag mit dem Titel „Wiederauferstehung eines Friedensprojekts“. europeanpeaceproject.eu/en/
Bild: Demoveranstalter
-
@ 8125b911:a8400883
2025-04-25 07:02:35In Nostr, all data is stored as events. Decentralization is achieved by storing events on multiple relays, with signatures proving the ownership of these events. However, if you truly want to own your events, you should run your own relay to store them. Otherwise, if the relays you use fail or intentionally delete your events, you'll lose them forever.
For most people, running a relay is complex and costly. To solve this issue, I developed nostr-relay-tray, a relay that can be easily run on a personal computer and accessed over the internet.
Project URL: https://github.com/CodyTseng/nostr-relay-tray
This article will guide you through using nostr-relay-tray to run your own relay.
Download
Download the installation package for your operating system from the GitHub Release Page.
| Operating System | File Format | | --------------------- | ---------------------------------- | | Windows |
nostr-relay-tray.Setup.x.x.x.exe
| | macOS (Apple Silicon) |nostr-relay-tray-x.x.x-arm64.dmg
| | macOS (Intel) |nostr-relay-tray-x.x.x.dmg
| | Linux | You should know which one to use |Installation
Since this app isn’t signed, you may encounter some obstacles during installation. Once installed, an ostrich icon will appear in the status bar. Click on the ostrich icon, and you'll see a menu where you can click the "Dashboard" option to open the relay's control panel for further configuration.
macOS Users:
- On first launch, go to "System Preferences > Security & Privacy" and click "Open Anyway."
- If you encounter a "damaged" message, run the following command in the terminal to remove the restrictions:
bash sudo xattr -rd com.apple.quarantine /Applications/nostr-relay-tray.app
Windows Users:
- On the security warning screen, click "More Info > Run Anyway."
Connecting
By default, nostr-relay-tray is only accessible locally through
ws://localhost:4869/
, which makes it quite limited. Therefore, we need to expose it to the internet.In the control panel, click the "Proxy" tab and toggle the switch. You will then receive a "Public address" that you can use to access your relay from anywhere. It's that simple.
Next, add this address to your relay list and position it as high as possible in the list. Most clients prioritize connecting to relays that appear at the top of the list, and relays lower in the list are often ignored.
Restrictions
Next, we need to set up some restrictions to prevent the relay from storing events that are irrelevant to you and wasting storage space. nostr-relay-tray allows for flexible and fine-grained configuration of which events to accept, but some of this is more complex and will not be covered here. If you're interested, you can explore this further later.
For now, I'll introduce a simple and effective strategy: WoT (Web of Trust). You can enable this feature in the "WoT & PoW" tab. Before enabling, you'll need to input your pubkey.
There's another important parameter,
Depth
, which represents the relationship depth between you and others. Someone you follow has a depth of 1, someone they follow has a depth of 2, and so on.- Setting this parameter to 0 means your relay will only accept your own events.
- Setting it to 1 means your relay will accept events from you and the people you follow.
- Setting it to 2 means your relay will accept events from you, the people you follow, and the people they follow.
Currently, the maximum value for this parameter is 2.
Conclusion
You've now successfully run your own relay and set a simple restriction to prevent it from storing irrelevant events.
If you encounter any issues during use, feel free to submit an issue on GitHub, and I'll respond as soon as possible.
Not your relay, not your events.
-
@ 526bec6a:07c68d13
2025-04-25 06:46:46Welcome to Whitey's Hub: Hack Shack & Party Pharmacy on Nostr The decentralized underworld of Nostr just got a whole lot darker. Nestled within the encrypted, censorship-resistant corners of the Nostr protocol, Whitey's Hub is the ultimate destination for those who crave the forbidden. This isn't just a market—it's a movement. Anonymity, security, and freedom are our currencies, and we’re here to deliver.
Xpresspostt Party Pharmacy: From the finest powders and crystals—cocaine, crack, methadrone and crystal meth—to the greenest buds of marijuana and the most potent opiates, our Party Pharmacy is stocked to satisfy any high. Looking for something more exotic? Our catalog includes pills, oxy, ice, and speed, ensuring your next party is unforgettable. All transactions are facilitated through Nostr's decentralized network, with public key encryption and escrow services that you the buyer can choose.
Hack Shack: Step into the digital underworld. Here, you'll find premium American and Canadian financial credentials, fraud services, and dirty script malware and cracked software. Whether you're looking to boost your cyber arsenal or gain unauthorized access to the world's most secure systems, our tutorials and software will guide you every step of the way. All communications are encrypted and decentralized, thanks to Nostr's secure relay system.
Ebooks & Tutorials: Elevate your game with our collection of eBooks and guides. Learn the art of fraud, master the dark web, or dive into the world of cyber espionage. Knowledge is power, and at Whitey's Hub, we empower. Our content is distributed directly through Nostr's decentralized channels, ensuring it’s uncensorable and always accessible.
Security & Anonymity: Nostr’s decentralized, open-source protocol ensures your identity remains hidden and your activities untraceable. All transactions are secured with end-to-end encryption, and our escrow system is built on trustless, cryptographic principles. Your privacy is our priority, and Nostr’s design guarantees it.
-
@ d34e832d:383f78d0
2025-04-25 06:06:32This walkthrough examines the integration of these three tools as a combined financial instrument, focusing on their functionality, security benefits, and practical applications. Specter Desktop offers a user-friendly interface for managing Bitcoin wallets, Bitcoin Core provides a full node for transaction validation, and Coldcard provides the hardware security necessary to safeguard private keys. Together, these tools offer a robust and secure environment for managing Bitcoin holdings, protecting them from both online and physical threats.
We will explore their individual roles in Bitcoin management, how they can be integrated to offer a cohesive solution, and the installation and configuration process on OpenBSD. Additionally, security considerations and practical use cases will be addressed to demonstrate the advantages of this setup compared to alternative Bitcoin management solutions.
2.1 Specter Desktop
Specter Desktop is a Bitcoin wallet management software that provides a powerful, open-source interface for interacting with Bitcoin nodes. Built with an emphasis on multi-signature wallets and hardware wallet integration, Specter Desktop is designed to serve as an all-in-one solution for users who prioritize security and self-custody. It integrates seamlessly with Bitcoin Core and various hardware wallets, including Coldcard, and supports advanced features such as multi-signature wallets, which offer additional layers of security for managing Bitcoin funds.
2.2 Bitcoin Core
Bitcoin Core is the reference implementation of the Bitcoin protocol and serves as the backbone of the Bitcoin network. Running a Bitcoin Core full node provides users with the ability to independently verify all transactions and blocks on the network, ensuring trustless interaction with the blockchain. This is crucial for achieving full decentralization and autonomy, as Bitcoin Core ensures that users do not rely on third parties to confirm the validity of transactions. Furthermore, Bitcoin Core allows users to interact with the Bitcoin network via the command-line interface or a graphical user interface (GUI), offering flexibility in how one can participate in the Bitcoin ecosystem.
2.3 Coldcard
Coldcard is a Bitcoin hardware wallet that prioritizes security and privacy. It is designed to store private keys offline, away from any internet-connected devices, making it an essential tool for protecting Bitcoin holdings from online threats such as malware or hacking. Coldcard’s secure hardware environment ensures that private keys never leave the device, providing an air-gapped solution for cold storage. Its open-source firmware allows users to audit the wallet’s code and operations, ensuring that the device behaves exactly as expected.
2.4 Roles in Bitcoin Management
Each of these components plays a distinct yet complementary role in Bitcoin management:
- Specter Desktop: Acts as the interface for wallet management and multi-signature wallet configuration.
- Bitcoin Core: Provides a full node for transaction verification and interacts with the Bitcoin network.
- Coldcard: Safeguards private keys by storing them securely in hardware, providing offline signing capabilities for transactions.
Together, these tools offer a comprehensive and secure environment for managing Bitcoin funds.
3. Integration
3.1 How Specter Desktop, Bitcoin Core, and Coldcard Work Together
The integration of Specter Desktop, Bitcoin Core, and Coldcard offers a cohesive solution for managing and securing Bitcoin. Here's how these components interact:
- Bitcoin Core runs as a full node, providing a fully verified and trustless Bitcoin network. It validates all transactions and blocks independently.
- Specter Desktop communicates with Bitcoin Core to manage Bitcoin wallets, including setting up multi-signature wallets and connecting to hardware wallets like Coldcard.
- Coldcard is used to securely store the private keys for Bitcoin transactions. When a transaction is created in Specter Desktop, it is signed offline on the Coldcard device before being broadcasted to the Bitcoin network.
The main advantages of this setup include:
- Self-Sovereignty: By using Bitcoin Core and Coldcard, the user has complete control over their funds and does not rely on third-party services for transaction verification or key management.
- Enhanced Security: Coldcard provides the highest level of security for private keys, protecting them from online attacks and malware. Specter Desktop’s integration with Coldcard ensures a user-friendly method for interacting with the hardware wallet.
- Privacy: Using Bitcoin Core allows users to run their own full node, ensuring that they are not dependent on third-party servers, which could compromise privacy.
This integration, in combination with a user-friendly interface from Specter Desktop, allows Bitcoin holders to manage their funds securely, efficiently, and with full autonomy.
3.2 Advantages of This Setup
The combined use of Specter Desktop, Bitcoin Core, and Coldcard offers several advantages over alternative Bitcoin management solutions:
- Enhanced Security: The use of an air-gapped Coldcard wallet ensures private keys never leave the device, even when signing transactions. Coupled with Bitcoin Core’s full node validation, this setup offers unparalleled protection against online threats and attacks.
- Decentralization: Running a full Bitcoin Core node ensures that the user has full control over transaction validation, removing any dependence on centralized third-party services.
- User-Friendly Interface: Specter Desktop simplifies the management of multi-signature wallets and integrates seamlessly with Coldcard, making it accessible even to non-technical users.
4. Installation on OpenBSD
This section provides a step-by-step guide to installing Specter Desktop, Bitcoin Core, and setting up Coldcard on OpenBSD.
4.1 Installing Bitcoin Core
OpenBSD Bitcoin Core Build Guide
Updated for OpenBSD 7.6
This guide outlines the process of building Bitcoin Core (bitcoind), its command-line utilities, and the Bitcoin GUI (bitcoin-qt) on OpenBSD. It covers necessary dependencies, installation steps, and configuration details specific to OpenBSD.
Table of Contents
- Preparation
- Installing Required Dependencies
- Cloning the Bitcoin Core Repository
- Installing Optional Dependencies
- Wallet Dependencies
- GUI Dependencies
- Building Bitcoin Core
- Configuration
- Compilation
- Resource Limit Adjustments
1. Preparation
Before beginning the build process, ensure your system is up-to-date and that you have the necessary dependencies installed.
1.1 Installing Required Dependencies
As the root user, install the base dependencies required for building Bitcoin Core:
bash pkg_add git cmake boost libevent
For a complete list of all dependencies, refer to
dependencies.md
.1.2 Cloning the Bitcoin Core Repository
Next, clone the official Bitcoin Core repository to a directory. All build commands will be executed from this directory.
bash git clone https://github.com/bitcoin/bitcoin.git
1.3 Installing Optional Dependencies
Bitcoin Core supports optional dependencies for advanced functionality such as wallet support, GUI features, and notifications. Below are the details for the installation of optional dependencies.
1.3.1 Wallet Dependencies
While it is not necessary to build wallet functionality for running
bitcoind
orbitcoin-qt
, if you need wallet functionality:-
Descriptor Wallet Support: SQLite is required for descriptor wallet functionality.
bash pkg_add sqlite3
-
Legacy Wallet Support: BerkeleyDB is needed for legacy wallet support. It is recommended to use Berkeley DB 4.8. The BerkeleyDB library from OpenBSD ports cannot be used directly, so you will need to build it from source using the
depends
folder.Run the following command to build it (adjust the path as necessary):
bash gmake -C depends NO_BOOST=1 NO_LIBEVENT=1 NO_QT=1 NO_ZMQ=1 NO_USDT=1
After building BerkeleyDB, set the environment variable
BDB_PREFIX
to point to the appropriate directory:bash export BDB_PREFIX="[path_to_berkeleydb]"
1.3.2 GUI Dependencies
Bitcoin Core includes a GUI built with Qt6. To compile the GUI, the following dependencies are required:
-
Qt6: Install the necessary parts of the Qt6 framework for GUI support.
bash pkg_add qt6-qtbase qt6-qttools
-
libqrencode: The GUI can generate QR codes for addresses. To enable this feature, install
libqrencode
:bash pkg_add libqrencode
If you don't need QR encoding support, use the
-DWITH_QRENCODE=OFF
option during the configuration step to disable it.
1.3.3 Notification Dependencies
Bitcoin Core can provide notifications through ZeroMQ. If you require this functionality, install ZeroMQ:
bash pkg_add zeromq
1.3.4 Test Suite Dependencies
Bitcoin Core includes a test suite for development and testing purposes. To run the test suite, you will need Python 3 and the ZeroMQ Python bindings:
bash pkg_add python py3-zmq
2. Building Bitcoin Core
Once all dependencies are installed, follow these steps to configure and compile Bitcoin Core.
2.1 Configuration
Bitcoin Core offers various configuration options. Below are two common setups:
-
Descriptor Wallet and GUI: Enables descriptor wallet support and the GUI. This requires SQLite and Qt6.
bash cmake -B build -DBUILD_GUI=ON
To see all available configuration options, run:
bash cmake -B build -LH
-
Descriptor & Legacy Wallet, No GUI: Enables support for both descriptor and legacy wallets, but no GUI.
bash cmake -B build -DBerkeleyDB_INCLUDE_DIR:PATH="${BDB_PREFIX}/include" -DWITH_BDB=ON
2.2 Compile
After configuration, compile the project using the following command. Use the
-j N
option to parallelize the build process, whereN
is the number of CPU cores you want to use.bash cmake --build build
To run the test suite after building, use:
bash ctest --test-dir build
If Python 3 is not installed, some tests may be skipped.
2.3 Resource Limit Adjustments
OpenBSD's default resource limits are quite restrictive and may cause build failures, especially due to memory issues. If you encounter memory-related errors, increase the data segment limit temporarily for the current shell session:
bash ulimit -d 3000000
To make the change permanent for all users, modify the
datasize-cur
anddatasize-max
values in/etc/login.conf
and reboot the system.
Now Consider
By following these steps, you will be able to successfully build Bitcoin Core on OpenBSD 7.6. This guide covers the installation of essential and optional dependencies, configuration, and the compilation process. Make sure to adjust the resource limits if necessary, especially when dealing with larger codebases.
4.2 Installing Specter Desktop What To Consider
Specter Installation Guide for OpenBSD with Coldcard
This simply aims to provide OpenBSD users with a comprehensive and streamlined process for installing Specter, a Bitcoin wallet management tool. Tailored to those integrating Coldcard hardware wallets with Specter, this guide will help users navigate the installation process, considering various technical levels and preferences. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced user, the guide will empower you to make informed decisions about which installation method suits your needs best.
Specter Installation Methods on OpenBSD
Specter offers different installation methods to accommodate various technical skills and environments. Here, we explore each installation method in the context of OpenBSD, while considering integration with Coldcard for enhanced security in Bitcoin operations.
1. OS-Specific Installation on OpenBSD
Installing Specter directly from OpenBSD's packages or source is an excellent option for users who prefer system-native solutions. This method ensures that Specter integrates seamlessly with OpenBSD’s environment.
- Advantages:
- Easy Installation: Package managers (if available on OpenBSD) simplify the process.
- System Compatibility: Ensures that Specter works well with OpenBSD’s unique system configurations.
-
Convenience: Can be installed on the same machine that runs Bitcoin Core, offering an integrated solution for managing both Bitcoin Core and Coldcard.
-
Disadvantages:
- System-Specific Constraints: OpenBSD’s minimalistic approach might require manual adjustments, especially in terms of dependencies or running services.
-
Updates: You may need to manually update Specter if updates aren’t regularly packaged for OpenBSD.
-
Ideal Use Case: Ideal for users looking for a straightforward, system-native installation that integrates with the local Bitcoin node and uses the Coldcard hardware wallet.
2. PIP Installation on OpenBSD
For those comfortable working in Python environments, PIP installation offers a flexible approach for installing Specter.
- Advantages:
- Simplicity: If you’re already managing Python environments, PIP provides a straightforward and easy method for installation.
- Version Control: Gives users direct control over the version of Specter being installed.
-
Integration: Works well with any existing Python workflow.
-
Disadvantages:
- Python Dependency Management: OpenBSD users may face challenges when managing dependencies, as Python setups on OpenBSD can be non-standard.
-
Technical Knowledge: Requires familiarity with Python and pip, which may not be ideal for non-technical users.
-
Ideal Use Case: Suitable for Python-savvy users who already use Python-based workflows and need more granular control over their installations.
3. Docker Installation
If you're familiar with Docker, running Specter Desktop in Docker containers is a fantastic way to isolate the installation and avoid conflicts with the OpenBSD system.
- Advantages:
- Isolation: Docker ensures Specter runs in an isolated environment, reducing system conflicts.
- Portability: Once set up, Docker containers can be replicated across various platforms and devices.
-
Consistent Environment: Docker ensures consistency in the Specter installation, regardless of underlying OS differences.
-
Disadvantages:
- Docker Setup: OpenBSD’s Docker support isn’t as seamless as other operating systems, potentially requiring extra steps to get everything running.
-
Complexity: For users unfamiliar with Docker, the initial setup can be more challenging.
-
Ideal Use Case: Best for advanced users familiar with Docker environments who require a reproducible and isolated installation.
4. Manual Build from Source (Advanced Users)
For users looking for full control over the installation process, building Specter from source on OpenBSD offers the most flexibility.
- Advantages:
- Customization: You can customize Specter’s functionality and integrate it deeply into your system or workflow.
-
Control: Full control over the build and version management process.
-
Disadvantages:
- Complex Setup: Requires familiarity with development environments, build tools, and dependency management.
-
Time-Consuming: The process of building from source can take longer, especially on OpenBSD, which may lack certain automated build systems for Specter.
-
Ideal Use Case: Best for experienced developers who want to customize Specter to meet specific needs or integrate Coldcard with unique configurations.
5. Node-Specific Integrations (e.g., Raspiblitz, Umbrel, etc.)
If you’re using a Bitcoin node like Raspiblitz or Umbrel along with Specter, these node-specific integrations allow you to streamline wallet management directly from the node interface.
- Advantages:
- Seamless Integration: Integrates Specter directly into the node's wallet management system.
-
Efficient: Allows for efficient management of both Bitcoin Core and Coldcard in a unified environment.
-
Disadvantages:
- Platform Limitation: Not applicable to OpenBSD directly unless you're running a specific node on the same system.
-
Additional Hardware Requirements: Running a dedicated node requires extra hardware resources.
-
Ideal Use Case: Perfect for users already managing Bitcoin nodes with integrated Specter support and Coldcard hardware wallets.
6. Using Package Managers (Homebrew for Linux/macOS)
If you're running OpenBSD on a machine that also supports Homebrew, this method can simplify installation.
- Advantages:
- Simple Setup: Package managers like Homebrew streamline the installation process.
-
Automated Dependency Management: Handles all dependencies automatically, reducing setup complexity.
-
Disadvantages:
- Platform Limitation: Package managers like Homebrew are more commonly used on macOS and Linux, not on OpenBSD.
-
Version Control: May not offer the latest Specter version depending on the repository.
-
Ideal Use Case: Best for users with Homebrew installed, though it may be less relevant for OpenBSD users.
Installation Decision Tree for OpenBSD with Coldcard
- Do you prefer system-native installation or Docker?
- System-native (OpenBSD-specific packages) → Proceed to installation via OS package manager.
-
Docker → Set up Docker container for isolated Specter installation.
-
Are you comfortable with Python?
- Yes → Install using PIP for Python-based environments.
-
No → Move to direct installation methods like Docker or manual build.
-
Do you have a specific Bitcoin node to integrate with?
- Yes → Consider node-specific integrations like Raspiblitz or Umbrel.
- No → Install using Docker or manual source build.
Now Consider
When installing Specter on OpenBSD, consider factors such as your technical expertise, hardware resources, and the need for integration with Coldcard. Beginners might prefer simpler methods like OS-specific packages or Docker, while advanced users will benefit from building from source for complete control over the installation. Choose the method that best fits your environment to maximize your Bitcoin wallet management capabilities.
4.3 Setting Up Coldcard
Refer to the "Coldcard Setup Documentation" section for the installation and configuration instructions specific to Coldcard. At the end of writing.
5. Security Considerations
When using Specter Desktop, Bitcoin Core, and Coldcard together, users benefit from a layered security approach:
- Bitcoin Core offers transaction validation and network security, ensuring that all transactions are verified independently.
- Coldcard provides air-gapped hardware wallet functionality, ensuring private keys are never exposed to potentially compromised devices.
- Specter Desktop facilitates user-friendly management of multi-signature wallets while integrating the security of Bitcoin Core and Coldcard.
However, users must also be aware of potential security risks, including:
- Coldcard Physical Theft: If the Coldcard device is stolen, the attacker would need the PIN code to access the wallet, but physical security must always be maintained.
- Backup Security: Users must securely back up their Coldcard recovery seed to prevent loss of access to funds.
6. Use Cases and Practical Applications
The integration of Specter Desktop, Bitcoin Core, and Coldcard is especially beneficial for:
- High-Value Bitcoin Holders: Those managing large sums of Bitcoin can ensure top-tier security with a multi-signature wallet setup and Coldcard’s air-gapped security.
- Privacy-Conscious Users: Bitcoin Core allows for full network verification, preventing third-party servers from seeing transaction details.
- Cold Storage Solutions: For users who want to keep their Bitcoin safe long-term, the Coldcard provides a secure offline solution while still enabling easy access via Specter Desktop.
7. Coldcard Setup Documentation
This section should provide clear, step-by-step instructions for configuring and using the Coldcard hardware wallet, including how to pair it with Specter Desktop, set up multi-signature wallets, and perform basic operations like signing transactions.
8. Consider
The system you ant to adopt inculcates, integrating Specter Desktop, Bitcoin Core, and Coldcard provides a powerful, secure, and decentralized solution for managing Bitcoin. This setup not only prioritizes user privacy and security but also provides an intuitive interface for even non-technical users. The combination of full node validation, multi-signature support, and air-gapped hardware wallet storage ensures that Bitcoin holdings are protected from both online and physical threats.
As the Bitcoin landscape continues to evolve, this setup can serve as a robust model for self-sovereign financial management, with the potential for future developments to enhance security and usability.
-
@ e46f3a64:4426aaf9
2025-04-25 04:49:42Want to stay ahead in the fast-changing Synthetic Fuels Market industry? Our report breaks down all the key insights—so you don’t have to! Whether you're a business owner, investor, or just curious about market trends, we’ve got you covered.
According to Straits Research, The Synthetic Fuels Market size was valued at USD 4.84 billion in 2023. It is projected to reach USD XX Billion by XX, growing at a CAGR of 18.15% during the forecast period (2023-XX).
Get Your Sample Report Now : https://straitsresearch.com/report/synthetic-fuels-market/request-sample
What’s Inside? Clear Market Analysis – No jargon, just straight-to-the-point insights on market size, growth, and trends. You’ll know exactly where the industry stands and where it’s headed, with clear data-backed predictions. Who’s Leading the Game? – Discover top players, their strategies, and how you can compete. We give you an in-depth look at the biggest players in the industry and how they’ve achieved success, providing actionable insights for your own business. Hot Growth Opportunities – Find out which regions and segments are booming—so you can jump on the next big opportunity! Our research pinpoints high-potential markets, allowing you to make timely, data-driven decisions. Real-World Insights – Get practical tips for product development, marketing, and expansion. We show you how to implement successful strategies based on what the leading companies are doing, and the trends that are making waves. Why Trust This Report? We’ve done the heavy lifting—analyzing data, trends, and competition—so you can make smart, confident decisions. Plus, we include a PESTEL Analysis to help you understand political, economic, social, and tech factors shaping the market, giving you a comprehensive understanding of the macro-environment.
Don’t miss out—download a FREE sample with key graphs, data, and insights : https://straitsresearch.com/report/synthetic-fuels-market/request-sample
Market Segments Covered: By Production Method Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis Methanol to Gasoline (MTG) Electrolysis-based Methods By Applications Gasoline Diesel Jet Fuel Others By End-User Transportation Power Generation Industrial Others Top Key Players: Audi AG Royal Dutch Shell Plc ExxonMobil Corporation PetroChina Company Limited Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. Reliance Industries Ltd. Phillips 66 Company Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers! How big is the Synthetic Fuels Market market, and where’s it headed? Which regions are the next big growth hubs? What’s driving (or slowing) market growth? By Region North America (U.S., Canada, Mexico) – Learn about market trends, challenges, and opportunities in North America, one of the most dynamic regions.
Europe (UK, Germany, France, and more) – Gain insights into Europe’s evolving market, focusing on the countries with the highest potential for growth.
Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, and fast-growing markets) – Discover the rapid changes happening in Asia Pacific, home to some of the world’s fastest-growing economies and industries.
Middle East & Africa (GCC, South Africa, Nigeria, and emerging economies) – Unlock the potential in Middle Eastern and African markets, understanding what drives demand in these emerging regions.
South America (Brazil, Argentina, and beyond) – Explore the opportunities and challenges in South America’s growing markets, as well as the top sectors to focus on.
Stay Ahead with Straits Research Stay Ahead with Straits Research We’re a trusted name in market intelligence, helping businesses like yours make smarter moves. From tech to healthcare, we’ve got the insights you need to win. Our reports are crafted with precision and backed by reliable data, ensuring you’re always ahead of the curve in a competitive landscape.
More Industry Reports & Updates:
https://sites.google.com/view/consumerandpackageingresearchr/home/anti-aging-products-market-size
https://sites.google.com/view/consumerandpackageingresearchr/home/solar-tracker-installation-market
-
@ e46f3a64:4426aaf9
2025-04-25 04:48:31Want to stay ahead in the fast-changing Air Conditioning System Market industry? Our report breaks down all the key insights—so you don’t have to! Whether you're a business owner, investor, or just curious about market trends, we’ve got you covered.
According to Straits Research, The Air Conditioning System Market size was valued at USD 119.77 Billion in 2022. It is projected to reach USD 202.34 Billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 6% during the forecast period (2022-2031).
Get Your Sample Report Now : https://straitsresearch.com/report/air-conditioning-system-market/request-sample
What’s Inside? Clear Market Analysis – No jargon, just straight-to-the-point insights on market size, growth, and trends. You’ll know exactly where the industry stands and where it’s headed, with clear data-backed predictions. Who’s Leading the Game? – Discover top players, their strategies, and how you can compete. We give you an in-depth look at the biggest players in the industry and how they’ve achieved success, providing actionable insights for your own business. Hot Growth Opportunities – Find out which regions and segments are booming—so you can jump on the next big opportunity! Our research pinpoints high-potential markets, allowing you to make timely, data-driven decisions. Real-World Insights – Get practical tips for product development, marketing, and expansion. We show you how to implement successful strategies based on what the leading companies are doing, and the trends that are making waves. Why Trust This Report? We’ve done the heavy lifting—analyzing data, trends, and competition—so you can make smart, confident decisions. Plus, we include a PESTEL Analysis to help you understand political, economic, social, and tech factors shaping the market, giving you a comprehensive understanding of the macro-environment.
Don’t miss out—download a FREE sample with key graphs, data, and insights : https://straitsresearch.com/report/air-conditioning-system-market/request-sample
Market Segments Covered: By Type Unitary Rooftop Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner (PTAC) By Technology Inverter Non-Inverter By End-User Residential Commercial Industrial Top Key Players: Daikin Industries Ltd. Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US LLC Carrier Haier Group ALFA LAVAL BSH Hausgeräte GmbH Electrolux AB Corporation Ingersoll-Rand plc (Trane Technologies plc) Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers! How big is the Air Conditioning System Market market, and where’s it headed? Which regions are the next big growth hubs? What’s driving (or slowing) market growth? By Region North America (U.S., Canada, Mexico) – Learn about market trends, challenges, and opportunities in North America, one of the most dynamic regions.
Europe (UK, Germany, France, and more) – Gain insights into Europe’s evolving market, focusing on the countries with the highest potential for growth.
Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, and fast-growing markets) – Discover the rapid changes happening in Asia Pacific, home to some of the world’s fastest-growing economies and industries.
Middle East & Africa (GCC, South Africa, Nigeria, and emerging economies) – Unlock the potential in Middle Eastern and African markets, understanding what drives demand in these emerging regions.
South America (Brazil, Argentina, and beyond) – Explore the opportunities and challenges in South America’s growing markets, as well as the top sectors to focus on.
Stay Ahead with Straits Research Stay Ahead with Straits Research We’re a trusted name in market intelligence, helping businesses like yours make smarter moves. From tech to healthcare, we’ve got the insights you need to win. Our reports are crafted with precision and backed by reliable data, ensuring you’re always ahead of the curve in a competitive landscape.
More Industry Reports & Updates:
https://sites.google.com/view/consumerandpackageingresearchr/home/furniture-market-size
https://sites.google.com/view/consumerandpackageingresearchr/home/anti-aging-products-market-size
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@ 9c9d2765:16f8c2c2
2025-04-25 06:22:27CHAPTER TWELVE
"Who in the world is knocking like that?" Susan grumbled as she approached the front door, the loud thud clearly interrupting her peaceful afternoon.
She swung the door open sharply and immediately, her face twisted with disdain.
"You again?" she spat with venom. "What are you doing here, James? Haven’t you embarrassed this family enough?"
James stood calmly at the threshold, wearing his usual tattered and weathered clothes. His expression was composed, though his eyes revealed the exhaustion of someone who had endured too much for too long.
"I just wanted to see Rita," he said quietly, his voice tinged with longing but not weakness.
Susan laughed, cold and cruel. "See Rita? Dressed like that? You look like you crawled out of a dumpster. Don’t you have any shame? This isn’t the street where you beg for leftovers. It’s the Ray residence!"
Before James could utter another word, Susan, holding a glass of water in her hand, flung it into his face with disgust. The icy splash soaked his shirt and clung to his skin. The suddenness of it made him flinch, but he didn’t retaliate.
"And if I see you here again, I’ll make sure you’re dragged out by your ears!" she hissed.
The commotion quickly drew the attention of Helen, Rita’s mother, who stormed to the door with a glare.
"What is going on here, Susan? Why are you shouting like" She stopped abruptly when she saw James standing there, drenched and still calm. Her eyes narrowed.
"Oh, it’s you," she scoffed. "What do you want now, you jobless disgrace? Coming here to leech again?"
"Mother, please, I" James tried to explain.
"Don’t call me that! I’m not your mother, and you are no longer part of this family!" Helen shrieked, before pulling out her phone. "I'm calling the police right now. You need to be removed from this property permanently!"
Inside the house, Rita heard the shouting and came rushing downstairs, her heart dropping when she saw her husband standing like a soaked stray dog at their doorstep, humiliation written all over his face.
"James… please," she whispered as she gently approached him. "Just go. Not like this. Not today."
His eyes met hers, and for a moment, his resolve wavered. He had come to see her, to remember what home used to feel like. But this place no longer felt like home.
Moments later, a patrol car pulled into the driveway. Two officers stepped out, firm and ready for confrontation. The lead officer, tall and broad-shouldered, approached the group until his eyes landed on James.
There was a brief pause.
Then, the officer’s face lit up with recognition. "Master James!" he exclaimed, breaking into a wide smile as he stepped forward and embraced him like an old friend.
Susan and Helen’s jaws nearly hit the ground.
"Kenneth?" James blinked in surprise.
"Yes, sir! It’s me Kenneth. Do you remember? You helped me when my son needed surgery, even when you had nothing! I’ll never forget that. What happened here? Who did this to you?" Kenneth’s voice shifted into concern as he noticed James’s soaked shirt.
"It’s fine," James said, managing a small smile. "Don’t make trouble here. It’s not worth it. Please… let it go. For my wife’s sake."
Kenneth frowned, clearly not happy, but he respected James too much to argue. He turned toward Helen and Susan, his tone now sharp and professional.
"You’re lucky he’s a merciful man," he said coldly. "Because if it were up to me, you’d both be charged with public harassment."
He gave James one last look, a mixture of respect and sorrow, before turning back to the car.
James stood for a few seconds longer, then nodded to Rita before stepping away, leaving the house that had long stopped being a home.
As the police car disappeared into the distance, Susan muttered under her breath, "How does someone like him even know the head of patrol?"
"Are you sure this is everything?" Lisa asked her assistant, checking through the neatly packaged folder she held in her manicured hand.
"Yes, ma’am. That’s the most outstanding project we have. If JP Enterprises approves, it could breathe life into Ray Enterprises again," the assistant replied.
Lisa gave a satisfied nod and stepped into the driver’s seat of the sleek black SUV. As the assistant secretary of Ray Enterprises, this was her chance to make an impression that could fast-track her rise to the top. Promotion was within reach if this proposal went well.
It was early afternoon when she arrived at the imposing glass building of JP Enterprises. The logo gleamed under the sun, a symbol of unmatched success and prestige. She walked briskly through the entrance, heels clicking confidently on the marble floor, and introduced herself to the front desk staff.
"I’m here to see the President of JP Enterprises. I represent Ray Enterprises and have a proposal that demands his attention," she declared with poise.
The general secretary, seated calmly at the reception, glanced up and gave her a professional smile. "The President is currently away from his office. You may have to wait a bit. Would you prefer to sit here, or would you like to be notified upon his return?"
Lisa gave a nod. "I'll wait outside briefly. I left my phone in the car. Kindly notify me once he’s in."
She turned and walked outside. As she approached the parking lot, she noticed a familiar yet irritatingly disheveled figure walking into the building.
James.
He wore his usual plain, faded clothes hardly fitting for someone walking into a place like JP Enterprises. Lisa didn’t hesitate to launch an insult.
"Back again to beg, are we?" she said mockingly, narrowing her eyes as she crossed paths with him. "This isn’t a shelter for street men, James. Some places are just too grand for certain people."
James didn’t respond. He only glanced at her with the calm of a man who knew something she didn’t. Lisa rolled her eyes and headed back to retrieve her phone.
By the time she returned, the secretary informed her, "The President has just returned. You may go in now."
Lisa adjusted her blazer, tucked the folder neatly under her arm, and proceeded toward the private elevator that would take her to the executive floor. She entered the spacious office, ready to deliver her well-rehearsed pitch.
But as she stepped through the grand doors, she froze.
Seated confidently behind the massive desk, dressed in a sleek tailored suit, was James.
Her eyes widened in disbelief.
"What... what is this?" she stammered.
James looked up slowly, his expression unreadable.
"Miss Lisa," he said smoothly, "I see you’ve come to present a proposal."
She was completely speechless. The same man she had mocked moments ago now sat before her as the very person she came to impress.
"I didn’t know"
"No, you didn’t," James interjected, his tone firm but calm. "Unfortunately, I won’t be reviewing this proposal. JP Enterprises is not interested in any form of collaboration with Ray Enterprises at this time."
"But sir"
"You may leave now, Miss Lisa. Kindly ensure you exit the premises without further disturbance."
He pressed the intercom. "Security, please escort the representative from Ray Enterprises out of the building."
Crushed and humiliated, Lisa nodded awkwardly and backed out of the office, her hands trembling. As she exited the building, every step felt heavier than the last. She had blown her opportunity. Badly.
She drove back in silence, and when she reached Ray Enterprises, she delivered the unpleasant news.
"He rejected the proposal outright," she told the board members, struggling to mask her shaken pride. "I think… he holds something against us. He was cold. Dismissive."
Robert frowned, deeply perplexed. "Why would the President of JP Enterprises be so dismissive without even reviewing the content?"
He mulled it over in silence for a few seconds before his eyes lit up.
"Charles," he muttered to himself.
Everyone in the room turned toward him.
"Charles once introduced me to someone he said would someday become one of the most influential business minds in the country. Maybe he has a connection. Perhaps if I reach out to Charles, he can speak to the President on our behalf."
Without wasting time, Robert made the call. Charles, ever the gentleman, agreed to meet him over dinner the following evening.
The restaurant was quiet, with soft classical music playing in the background as they settled into a private booth. Wine glasses clinked, and after casual pleasantries, Robert finally laid out everything: the rejected proposal, the mounting pressure on Ray Enterprises, and the family’s desperation for investment.
Charles listened patiently.
"I see," he finally said, placing his glass down. "This is… complicated. I can’t make any promises, but I’ll have a conversation with the President myself. He listens to me. I’ll get back to you after we’ve spoken."
Robert gave a sigh of relief. "That’s all I ask."
Charles nodded.
"Let’s hope it’s not too late," he said softly.
"He's agreed to the investment, but there's a condition," Charles said with a steady voice, lowering the phone from his ear.
Christopher sat upright in his chair. "What condition?"
Charles hesitated briefly before responding. "He wants eighty percent ownership of Ray Enterprises in exchange for the investment funds."
The room fell silent.
Christopher’s brows furrowed. "Eighty percent? That’s nearly the entire company!"
"And yet it’s the only lifeline we have left," Nancy chimed in, standing beside Charles. "It’s this... or collapse."
Despite the protests that echoed through the Ray household, the truth was unavoidable the business was crumbling and in dire need of immediate funding. Left with no other viable option, the family begrudgingly accepted the condition and agreed to fix a date when the President of JP Enterprises would arrive in person to finalize the deal.
The day of reckoning came swiftly.
Everyone in Ray Enterprises was on edge. Christopher, Helen, Robert, Susan, and the rest of the executives were already seated in the boardroom. They whispered among themselves, speculating about the identity of the elusive president. No one expected what was to come.
The grand doors creaked open.
Charles entered first, followed closely by Sandra. Then, a third figure walked in calm, composed, and strikingly handsome in an immaculately tailored suit. James.
He carried himself with a quiet authority that immediately drew attention. His posture was upright, his gaze clear and unwavering. Yet the moment the Ray family saw him, chaos erupted.
"What is he doing here?!" Helen spat, her face contorted in fury. "This is a boardroom, not a shelter for the homeless!"
Susan sprang to her feet. "Security! Get this impostor out now!"
But before things spiraled further, Robert rose from his seat and raised a hand.
"Stop!" he commanded, silencing the room. "Before you embarrass yourselves any further, you should know this man is the President of JP Enterprises."
The revelation hit like a thunderclap. Mouths fell open, gasps echoed around the room. Some blinked in disbelief, others stared as if seeing James for the first time.
"Impossible," Helen whispered, shaking her head. "He’s just a... a beggar!"
"He was never what you thought he was," Robert said coolly. "And now, he’s your only chance."
James stepped forward, a faint smile playing on his lips.
"I was prepared to invest and take eighty percent," he began. "But after seeing the way I'm still being treated, I’ve had a change of heart."
He paused, letting the silence weigh heavily.
"I want eighty-five percent now."
The words struck like a blow. The room erupted again in murmurs and disbelief. Helen clenched her fists, fury simmering just beneath the surface.
"You can't be serious," she growled. "You’re trying to rob us"
"I’m offering to save you," James cut in firmly. "This business is days away from total collapse. Take the deal, or lose everything."
Christopher remained silent, his mind racing. The truth was undeniable. Ray Enterprises had no bargaining power left.
"Do we have a deal or not?" James asked again, his voice now tinged with impatience.
Helen opened her mouth to object, but Robert spoke first.
"We accept," he said solemnly.
With no more time to argue, the documents were signed by both parties. Ray Enterprises was now eighty-five percent owned by James, the man they had once called worthless.
But James wasn’t done.
"One more thing," he said, looking directly at Helen. "I know you’re now the general manager, a position handed to you after forcing my wife to step down when she refused to sign those pathetic divorce papers."
Helen stiffened.
"Reinstate Rita as general manager, and I’ll increase the investment to one point one billion dollars. That’s an additional two hundred million for her."
A collective gasp echoed through the room. Helen’s expression soured. She had no choice. Robert nodded after a long pause.
"Consider it done," he said.
Satisfied, James rose. He glanced at Susan, who was suddenly all smiles, her tone syrupy sweet as she tried to engage him in polite conversation. He ignored her completely.
He left the building with his uncle and Sandra, dignity intact, power reclaimed. Later that evening, Helen sat in her room, seething. She dialed a familiar number. When Mark picked up, she wasted no time.
"He’s the President of JP Enterprises, Mark," she hissed. "James owns eighty-five percent of this company now."
Mark was silent for a long while before chuckling bitterly. "So that’s why I was fired... why everything crumbled. No wonder."
Even in their separate storms, they found common ground in one thing hatred for James.
Mark’s eyes darkened. "I swear, Helen. He’ll pay for this."
"We’ll make sure of it," Helen replied, her voice low and vengeful.
-
@ 24462930:3caf03ab
2025-04-25 04:37:25Nostr 中所有的数据都是事件,通过将事件存储在多个中继器上来实现去中心化,通过签名来证明事件的拥有者。但如果你想真正拥有你的事件,你应该运行一个自己的中继器来保存它们。否则一旦你使用的所有中继器出了故障或者刻意删除了你的事件,你将永远丢失它们。
对于大部份人来说,运行一个中继器是复杂的,成本高昂的。为了解决这个问题,我开发了 nostr-relay-tray,这是一款可以很方便在个人电脑上运行的中继器,并且支持通过互联网对其进行访问。
项目地址:https://github.com/CodyTseng/nostr-relay-tray
本文将介绍如何使用 nostr-relay-tray 来运行一个自己的中继器。
下载
从 GitHub Release 页面 下载对应你操作系统的安装包
| 操作系统 | 文件格式 | | --------------------- | ---------------------------------- | | Windows |
nostr-relay-tray.Setup.x.x.x.exe
| | macOS (Apple Silicon) |nostr-relay-tray-x.x.x-arm64.dmg
| | macOS (Intel) |nostr-relay-tray-x.x.x.dmg
| | Linux | 你们应该知道使用哪个 |安装
因为我没有对这个安装包进行数字签名,所以在安装时会有一些阻碍。安装成功后,菜单栏会出现一个鸵鸟图标。点击鸵鸟图标,你会看到一个菜单,点击 "Dashboard" 选项可以打开中继器的控制面板进行更多的配置。
macOS 用户注意:
- 首次打开时需要前往「系统设置 > 隐私与安全性」点击“仍要打开”按钮。
- 若遇损坏提示,需要在终端执行以下命令解除限制:
bash sudo xattr -rd com.apple.quarantine /Applications/nostr-relay-tray.app
Windows 用户:
- 在安全警告界面点击「更多信息 > 仍要运行」
连接
默认情况下,nostr-relay-tray 只能在本地通过
ws://localhost:4869/
进行访问。这让它的用途非常有限,所以我们需要将它暴露到互联网。在控制面板中点击 "Proxy" 选项卡,并打开开关。你将会获得一个 "Public address",你可以使用这个地址在任何地方访问你的中继器。就是这么简单。
接下来,你要将刚刚获得的地址添加到你的中继器列表中。并且要让它在列表中尽可能靠前的位置。因为大部份的客户端会优先连接列表中靠前的中继器,后面的中继器常常会被忽略。
限制
接下来我们需要增加一些限制来防止中继器保存一些与你无关的事件,浪费存储空间。nostr-relay-tray 可以非常灵活精细地设置允许接收哪些事件,但有些复杂,所以不在这里介绍,如果有兴趣可以日后探索。
在这里我先介绍一个很简单有效的策略 —— WoT (Web of Trust)。你可以在 "WoT & PoW" 选项卡中打开这个功能。打开之前你需要先输入你的 pubkey。
这里还有一个非常重要的参数
Depth
,它表示某个人与你的关系深度。你关注的人与你的深度为 1,你关注的人关注的人与你的深度为 2,以此类推。- 如果你将这个参数设置为 0,那么你的中继器只会接收你自己的事件。
- 如果你将这个参数设置为 1,那么你的中继器只会接收你和你关注的人的事件。
- 如果你将这个参数设置为 2,那么你的中继器只会接收你和你关注的人的事件,以及你关注的人关注的人的事件。
目前这个参数的最大值只能为 2。
总结
至此,你已经成功运行了一个自己的中继器,并且设置了一个简单的限制来防止中继器保存一些与你无关的事件。
如果你在使用中遇到任何问题,请随时在 GitHub 上提交 issue,我会尽快回复你。
Not your relay, not your events
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@ fd06f542:8d6d54cd
2025-04-25 03:07:03什么是电子书系统?
目前电子书系统非常多,gitbook,mkdocs,vitepress。但是这些系统都有一个问题,就是你需要 静态存储你的markdown文件, 而且不能在线编写。
现有的电子书系统,你需要用一个 第三方编辑器 制作好一个一个的md文件,并且编排好目录结构,然后用上面列举的 软件生成 一个website。
现有电子书的缺点是什么?
- 空间问题,你需要存书的空间;
- 编写不方便 写好以后需要手动上传;
- 登录到服务器更新写好的新文件;
- 不支持交互和评论;
- 再重启服务器,(有些可能不需要重启,自己能监控);
以上过程太繁琐了。
nostrbook如何解决这个问题?
- nostrbook采用的在线编辑;
- 用户无须任何空间,内容存储到第三方服务器,你也可以用自己的服务器;
- 免费,开源;
- 发布轻松,写好点"提交"就发布了,不需要过多的动作;
- 无须其他的维护成本;
- 支持 评论和点赞;
- 可以私有部署,到自己服务器,或者部署在本机都可以。
搭建过程
环境依赖
- nodejs
安装过程
git clone https://github.com/nostrbook/nostrbook cd nostrbook npm install npm run dev
定制化配置
修改这个文件 https://github.com/nostrbook/nostrbook/blob/main/src/lib/config.ts export let booktag="createbook"; export let blogtag="createblog"; export let chaptertag="bookchapter";
修以上3个参数,就可以成为你自己的 电子书和blog了。
你要你的系统安装了nodejs,就可以了。 Windows,Linux ,macos都可以。
系统支持 电子书和blog,你可以搭建 私有 日志系统也可以。
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@ 502ab02a:a2860397
2025-04-25 02:19:05วันนี้จะเล่าเรื่องโครงการ School Plates โดย ProVeg UK ให้อ่านครับ
ProVeg UK เปิดตัวโครงการ School Plates ในเดือนมิถุนายน 2018 โดยมีเป้าหมายเพื่อช่วยให้โรงเรียนในสหราชอาณาจักรเสิร์ฟอาหารที่ดีต่อสุขภาพและเป็นมิตรต่อสิ่งแวดล้อมมากขึ้น โครงการนี้มุ่งเน้นการเพิ่มคุณภาพ ปริมาณ และการยอมรับของอาหารจากพืชในเมนูโรงเรียน โดยเฉพาะในโรงเรียนประถมศึกษา ซึ่งส่วนใหญ่จะอยู่ภายใต้การดูแลของหน่วยงานท้องถิ่น
เพื่อการสนับสนุนโครงการ บริการที่ ProVeg UK มอบให้จะประกอบไปด้วย บริการฟรีแก่โรงเรียน หน่วยงานท้องถิ่น และผู้จัดเลี้ยงอาหารโรงเรียน เพื่อสนับสนุนการเปลี่ยนแปลงเมนูอย่างมีประสิทธิภาพ บริการเหล่านี้รวมถึง -การให้คำปรึกษาเมนู โดยให้คำแนะนำในการปรับสมดุลเมนู และใช้ภาษาที่ส่งเสริมอาหารจากพืช -การพัฒนาสูตรอาหารใหม่ ช่วยสร้างสูตรอาหารจากพืชที่อร่อย มีคุณค่าทางโภชนาการ และเหมาะสมกับครัวโรงเรียน -การจัดเวิร์กช็อปและการฝึกอบรม โดยจัดอบรมทั้งแบบออนไลน์และแบบพบหน้าสำหรับพ่อครัวและเจ้าหน้าที่ครัวโรงเรียน -การวิเคราะห์ด้านสุขภาพ สิ่งแวดล้อม และงบประมาณ มีโปรแกรมประเมินผลกระทบของเมนูต่อสุขภาพเด็ก การปล่อยก๊าซเรือนกระจก และต้นทุน ให้ครบถ้วน
นอกจากนี้ยังมีการจัดรางวัล School Plates Awards: มอบรางวัลระดับ Bronze, Silver และ Gold ให้แก่โรงเรียนที่มีความมุ่งมั่นในการปรับปรุงเมนูอย่างยั่งยืน ด้วย
ผลลัพธ์ตั้งแต่เริ่มโครงการ School Plates ได้เปลี่ยนแปลงเมนูอาหารโรงเรียนมากกว่า 6 ล้านมื้อ ให้กลายเป็นอาหารที่ดีต่อสุขภาพและยั่งยืนมากขึ้น โดยมีการเพิ่มวัน Meat-Free Mondays และตัวเลือกอาหารจากพืชในเมนูประจำวันของโรงเรียนหลายแห่ง
สูตรอาหารที่พัฒนาโดย ProVeg UK มีคุณสมบัติประมาณนี้ครับ -มีโปรตีนเทียบเท่ากับอาหารที่มีเนื้อสัตว์ -มีไขมันอิ่มตัวต่ำกว่า -อุดมไปด้วยไฟเบอร์และสารอาหารที่จำเป็น -มีการปล่อยก๊าซเรือนกระจกต่ำ -สอดคล้องกับมาตรฐานอาหารและโภชนาการของโรงเรียนในสหราชอาณาจักร
นั่นทำให้โครงการ School Plates ได้รับการยอมรับจากโรงเรียนและหน่วยงานท้องถิ่นหลายแห่งในสหราชอาณาจักร และยังได้รับการเสนอชื่อเข้าชิงรางวัลด้านสิ่งแวดล้อมระดับโลก เช่น Food Planet Prize
ทีนี้เรามาวิเคราะห์กันว่า School Plates คือ เมนูรักษ์โลกหรือกับดักระบบ? โครงการ School Plates ของ ProVeg UK ภายนอกดูเหมือนเรื่องดี เป็นการ “ช่วยโรงเรียนให้เปลี่ยนเมนูไปทาง plant-based เพื่อสุขภาพเด็กและโลก” มีการให้คำปรึกษา ทำสูตรอาหาร อบรมพ่อครัว และพูดจาภาษาดี ๆ ว่า "อาหารยั่งยืน" กับ "ทางเลือกที่ดีต่อสุขภาพ" แต่ถ้ามองลึกเข้าไป มันไม่ใช่แค่อาหาร มันคือ เกมเปลี่ยนโครงสร้างการผลิตอาหารในระดับระบบ โดยใช้ “เด็กในโรงเรียน” เป็นจุดตั้งต้น
ถ้าดูเผิน ๆ เราอาจนึกว่าเด็กได้กินผักเยอะขึ้น โลกได้ลดก๊าซเรือนกระจก แต่ถ้าขุดเข้าไป จะเห็นว่าเบื้องหลัง ProVeg UK เชื่อมโยงกับกลุ่มทุน plant-based ขนาดใหญ่ ไม่ว่าจะเป็นผู้ผลิตนมถั่ว เนื้อเทียม หรือบริษัทยีสต์และจุลินทรีย์ที่ใช้ทำโปรตีนหมัก (Precision Fermentation) ทั้งหลาย
และอย่าลืมว่า ProVeg มีพันธมิตรกับองค์กรระดับโลกอย่าง EAT Foundation, World Resources Institute, และกลุ่ม lobby ต่าง ๆ ที่ผลักดัน นโยบายเปลี่ยนอาหารโลก ให้ไปทาง plant-based เป็นหลัก ซึ่งดูดี… ถ้าเราไม่รู้ว่าเบื้องหลังมันคือระบบ “อาหารสำเร็จรูปจากโรงงาน” ที่อ้างคำว่า “รักษ์โลก” แต่ผลิตโดยอุตสาหกรรมที่กระจุกตัวสูงมาก
ปัญหาที่คนอาจไม่ค่อยพูดถึงก็มีอยู่ครับเช่น -ละเลยโภชนาการตามธรรมชาติของเด็ก เพราะเด็กวัยเจริญเติบโตต้องการ โปรตีนคุณภาพสูง ไขมันดี และ สารอาหารที่พบเฉพาะในสัตว์ เช่น วิตามิน B12, เฮม-ไอรอน, โคลีน, คาร์โนซีน ฯลฯ ซึ่งอาหาร plant-based จำนวนมากขาด หรือมีในรูปแบบดูดซึมยากกว่าหลายเท่า - ใช้คำว่า "สิ่งแวดล้อม" บังหน้า แต่เป็นการผูกขาดระบบอาหาร การผลัก plant-based ไม่ได้ลดการพึ่งพาระบบอุตสาหกรรมเลย ตรงกันข้ามคือมันพาเราเข้าสู่ยุคของ plant-based ultra-processed food ที่ผลิตจากซอยโปรตีน ถั่วเหลือง GMO 2.0 น้ำมันพืช และสารแต่งรส... จากโรงงาน - เจาะระบบโรงเรียน = วางรากฐานความเชื่อ ให้เด็กที่โตมากับอาหารแบบนี้จะเชื่อว่านี่คือ “ของดี” และมองโปรตีนจากสัตว์เป็นสิ่งแปลกแยกในอนาคต เหมือนเป็นการ “reset” วิถีอาหารใหม่แบบไม่รู้ตัวผ่าน เจเนอเรชั่น - กลไกการจัดซื้อของรัฐจะถูก redirect ไปยังกลุ่มทุนใหญ่นอกพื้นที่ จากที่โรงเรียนจำนวนมากเคยซื้อวัตถุดิบจากชุมชน หรือฟาร์มใกล้เคียง พอโครงการแบบนี้เข้ามา จะค่อย ๆ ทำให้วัตถุดิบถูกกำหนดจาก เมนูที่ standardized ซึ่งสุดท้ายต้องพึ่ง “สินค้าสำเร็จรูปจากระบบอุตสาหกรรม”
ซึ่งถ้าเรามองโภชนาการสำหรับเด็กจริงๆแล้วนั้น เราควรลดของแปรรูป ไม่ใช่แค่ลดเนื้อ และใช้วัตถุดิบสดแท้จากธรรมชาติ ไม่ใช่ plant-based industrial food นอกจากนี้ยังควรสนับสนุนอาหารจากฟาร์มท้องถิ่น ทั้งผัก ไข่ เนื้อ และผลิตผลจากเกษตรกรจริง รวมถึงให้เด็กได้รู้จักที่มาของอาหาร ไม่ใช่แค่เรียนรู้แคลอรีกับคาร์บอนที่ว่ากันว่าปล่อยออกมา
School Plates คือก้าวเล็ก ๆ สู่การเปลี่ยนโครงสร้างใหญ่ของการควบคุมอาหารของโลก มันไม่ได้แค่เรื่องของเมนูกลางวัน แต่มันคือ “ระบบคิด” ที่กำลัง reshape โลกให้เด็กยุคใหม่โตมาโดยไม่รู้จัก real food ในสายตาเฮีย แม้โครงการนี้ไม่ได้เลวร้ายทั้งหมด แต่มันมี “เจตนาเชิงโครงสร้าง” ที่ต้องจับตาอย่างมาก และเราควรถามกลับเสมอว่า... ทำไมเราถึงต้องยัดอาหารสังเคราะห์ในนามของการ “รักโลก” แต่กลับตัดขาดจากดิน น้ำ ฟ้า และฟาร์มท้องถิ่น? ทำไม?
#pirateketo #กูต้องรู้มั๊ย #ม้วนหางสิลูก #siamstr
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@ 6ccf5232:5c74f0cb
2025-04-25 04:28:20H2Bet se destaca como uma das plataformas de jogos online mais inovadoras e emocionantes, oferecendo uma experiência dinâmica e imersiva para jogadores de todo o Brasil. Com uma ampla seleção de jogos, design fácil de usar e atendimento ao cliente excepcional, a H2Bet é uma das melhores escolhas para quem busca uma experiência de entretenimento online de qualidade. Este artigo abordará as principais características da plataforma, as opções de jogos e a experiência geral que a H2Bet oferece aos seus jogadores.
A H2bet é uma plataforma de jogos online criada para atender tanto iniciantes quanto jogadores experientes. Sua interface moderna e intuitiva garante que a navegação seja simples, permitindo que os jogadores encontrem facilmente seus jogos e recursos preferidos. Se você está jogando no computador ou em um dispositivo móvel, a H2Bet oferece uma experiência sem interrupções graças ao seu design responsivo.
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@ c1e9ab3a:9cb56b43
2025-04-25 00:37:34If you ever read about a hypothetical "evil AI"—one that manipulates, dominates, and surveils humanity—you might find yourself wondering: how is that any different from what some governments already do?
Let’s explore the eerie parallels between the actions of a fictional malevolent AI and the behaviors of powerful modern states—specifically the U.S. federal government.
Surveillance and Control
Evil AI: Uses total surveillance to monitor all activity, predict rebellion, and enforce compliance.
Modern Government: Post-9/11 intelligence agencies like the NSA have implemented mass data collection programs, monitoring phone calls, emails, and online activity—often without meaningful oversight.
Parallel: Both claim to act in the name of “security,” but the tools are ripe for abuse.
Manipulation of Information
Evil AI: Floods the information space with propaganda, misinformation, and filters truth based on its goals.
Modern Government: Funds media outlets, promotes specific narratives through intelligence leaks, and collaborates with social media companies to suppress or flag dissenting viewpoints.
Parallel: Control the narrative, shape public perception, and discredit opposition.
Economic Domination
Evil AI: Restructures the economy for efficiency, displacing workers and concentrating resources.
Modern Government: Facilitates wealth transfer through lobbying, regulatory capture, and inflationary monetary policy that disproportionately hurts the middle and lower classes.
Parallel: The system enriches those who control it, leaving the rest with less power to resist.
Perpetual Warfare
Evil AI: Instigates conflict to weaken opposition or as a form of distraction and control.
Modern Government: Maintains a state of nearly constant military engagement since WWII, often for interests that benefit a small elite rather than national defense.
Parallel: War becomes policy, not a last resort.
Predictive Policing and Censorship
Evil AI: Uses predictive algorithms to preemptively suppress dissent and eliminate threats.
Modern Government: Experiments with pre-crime-like measures, flags “misinformation,” and uses AI tools to monitor online behavior.
Parallel: Prevent rebellion not by fixing problems, but by suppressing their expression.
Conclusion: Systemic Inhumanity
Whether it’s AI or a bureaucratic state, the more a system becomes detached from individual accountability and human empathy, the more it starts to act in ways we would call “evil” if a machine did them.
An AI doesn’t need to enslave humanity with lasers and killer robots. Sometimes all it takes is code, coercion, and unchecked power—something we may already be facing.
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@ 6ccf5232:5c74f0cb
2025-04-25 04:25:03O Bet7k chegou ao mercado como uma plataforma de entretenimento online que visa oferecer uma experiência envolvente e divertida para jogadores de diversas preferências. Com uma interface amigável e uma vasta gama de jogos, ela se posiciona como uma opção de destaque para aqueles que buscam uma experiência interativa de alto nível. Neste artigo, vamos explorar o que torna o Bet7k especial, desde sua introdução até os jogos oferecidos e a experiência do jogador.
Ao acessar o Bet7k, a primeira impressão é a de uma plataforma moderna e bem estruturada. O site foi projetado para ser intuitivo, facilitando a navegação tanto para novatos quanto para jogadores experientes. A plataforma é otimizada para dispositivos móveis, garantindo que os jogadores possam aproveitar seus jogos favoritos a qualquer hora e em qualquer lugar.
Além disso, o Bet7k é uma plataforma segura e confiável, com medidas robustas de proteção de dados e transações financeiras. A transparência e o compromisso com a privacidade do usuário são aspectos essenciais que contribuem para a confiança dos jogadores. Com uma conexão estável e interface rápida, a plataforma proporciona uma navegação sem interrupções, essencial para uma boa experiência de jogo.
Variedade de Jogos: Entretenimento para Todos os Gostos O Bet7k oferece uma grande variedade de jogos que atendem a todos os tipos de jogadores. Desde opções de jogos de mesa até jogos de habilidade e de sorte, a plataforma se esforça para garantir que todos os jogadores encontrem algo de seu interesse. Entre os jogos mais populares estão os caça-níqueis, onde a emoção e a expectativa de grandes vitórias estão sempre presentes. Com temas criativos e gráficos impressionantes, esses jogos proporcionam uma experiência envolvente e divertida.
Além disso, o Bet7k disponibiliza uma série de jogos de cartas, como o pôquer e o blackjack, que testam a habilidade e a estratégia dos jogadores. Esses jogos exigem mais do que sorte, oferecendo uma experiência desafiadora e dinâmica. Para os fãs de jogos rápidos e emocionantes, há também opções como roletas virtuais, que combinam sorte e emoção em cada rodada.
Para os jogadores que buscam algo mais interativo, o Bet7k também oferece uma série de jogos com dealers ao vivo, onde é possível interagir em tempo real com outros jogadores e dealers profissionais. Essa opção proporciona uma imersão ainda maior, criando uma atmosfera de jogo mais realista e envolvente.
A Experiência do Jogador: Praticidade e Diversão O diferencial do Bet7k está na experiência do jogador. A plataforma foca em oferecer uma experiência sem fricções, com um suporte ao cliente eficiente e disponível para resolver qualquer dúvida ou problema que possa surgir durante o jogo. A equipe de suporte é altamente treinada e está disponível 24 horas por dia, sete dias por semana, garantindo que o jogador sempre tenha a assistência necessária.
Outro aspecto importante da experiência do jogador no Bet7k é a variedade de métodos de pagamento. A plataforma aceita diversos métodos de depósito e retirada, facilitando o acesso dos jogadores ao conteúdo sem complicações. A transação é rápida e segura, permitindo que os jogadores se concentrem em sua diversão sem se preocupar com aspectos financeiros.
Além disso, o Bet7k oferece promoções regulares e programas de fidelidade, que incentivam os jogadores a retornarem à plataforma e continuarem sua jornada de diversão. As promoções são diversificadas, oferecendo bônus em depósitos, rodadas grátis e outros benefícios que aumentam a emoção e as chances de vitória.
Conclusão O Bet7k se destaca como uma plataforma completa de entretenimento online, oferecendo uma experiência envolvente, segura e divertida para todos os tipos de jogadores. Com uma vasta gama de jogos, uma interface intuitiva e suporte ao cliente de alta qualidade, o Bet7k é a escolha perfeita para quem busca uma plataforma confiável e cheia de diversão. Se você ainda não experimentou, é hora de conhecer o Bet7k e descobrir tudo o que essa plataforma tem a oferecer.
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@ 266815e0:6cd408a5
2025-04-24 22:56:53noStrudel
Its been over four months since I released
v0.42.0
of noStrudel but I haven't forgot about it, I've just been busy refactoring the code-base.The app is well past its 2yr birthday and a lot of the code is really messy and kind of hacky. so my focus in the past few months has been refactoring and moving a lot of it out into the applesauce packages so it can be tested.
The biggest changes have been switching to use
rx-nostr
for all relay connections and usingrxjs
and applesauce for event management and timelines. In total ~22k lines of code have been changed since the last release.I'm hoping it wont take me much longer to get a stable release for
v0.43.0
. In the meantime if you want to test out the new changes you can find them on the nsite deployment.nsite deplyment: nostrudel.nsite.lol/ Github repo: github.com/hzrd149/nostrudel
Applesauce
I've been making great progress on the applesauce libraries that are the core of onStrudel. Since January I've released
v0.11.0
andv0.12.0
.In the past month I've been working towards a v1 release with a better relay connection package applesauce-relay and pre-built actions for clients to easily implement common things like follow/unfollow and mute/unmute. applesauce-actions
Docs website: hzrd149.github.io/applesauce/ Github repo: https://github.com/hzrd149/applesauce
Blossom
Spec changes: - Merged PR #56 from kehiy for BUD-09 ( blob reports ) - Merged PR #60 from Kieran to update BUD-8 to use the standard NIP-94 tags array. - Merged PR #38 to make the file extension mandatory in the
url
field of the returned blob descriptor. - Merged PR #54 changing the authorization type for the/media
endpoint tomedia
instead ofupload
. This fixes an issue where the server could mirror the original blob without the users consent.Besides the changes to the blossom spec itself I started working on a small cli tool to help test and debug new blossom server implementations. The goal is to have a set of upload and download tests that can be run against a server to test if it adheres to the specifications. It can also be used output debug info and show recommended headers to add to the http responses.
If you have nodejs installed you can try it out by running
sh npx blossom-audit audit <server-url> [image|bitcoin|gif|path/to/file.jpeg]
Github repo: github.com/hzrd149/blossom-audit
Other projects
Wifistr
While participating in SEC-04 I built a small app for sharing the locations and passwords of wifi networks. Its far from complete, but its usable and serves as an example of building an app with SolidJS and applesauce.
Live version: hzrd149.github.io/wifistr/ nsite version: here Github repo: github.com/hzrd149/wifistr
nsite-manager
I've been slowly continuing work on nsite-manager, mostly just to allow myself to debug various nsites and make sure nsite.lol is still working correctly.
Github repo: github.com/hzrd149/nsite-manager
nsite-gateway
I finally got around to making some much needed bug fixes and improvements to nsite-gateway ( the server behind nsite.lol ) and released a stable
1.0.0
version.My hope is that its stable enough now to allow other users to start hosting their own instances of it.
Github repo: github.com/hzrd149/nsite-gateway
morning-glory
As part of my cashu PR for NUT-23 ( HTTP 402 Payment required ) I built a blossom server that only accepts cashu payments for uploads and stores blobs for 24h before deleting them.
Github repo: github.com/hzrd149/morning-glory
bakery
I've been toying with the idea of building a backend-first nostr client that would download events while I'm not at my computer and send me notifications about my DMs.
I made some progress on it in the last months but its far from complete or usable. Hopefully ill get some time in the next few months to create a working alpha version for myself and others to install on Umbrel and Start9
Github repo: github.com/hzrd149/bakery
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@ 6ccf5232:5c74f0cb
2025-04-25 04:24:17O mundo do entretenimento digital está em constante evolução, e o Betao surge como uma das plataformas mais inovadoras e empolgantes do momento. Com uma proposta moderna, acessível e repleta de recursos, o Betao atrai jogadores de todos os perfis, oferecendo uma variedade impressionante de jogos e uma experiência de usuário pensada para surpreender desde o primeiro acesso.
Logo ao entrar no site ou aplicativo do Betao, fica evidente o cuidado com o design e a funcionalidade. A navegação é intuitiva, com menus bem organizados e fácil acesso às principais seções. Seja no computador, tablet ou smartphone, o usuário encontra uma interface fluida que garante uma jornada sem complicações.
O processo de cadastro é rápido, e o suporte ao cliente está sempre disponível, o que mostra o comprometimento da plataforma com a segurança e a satisfação dos seus jogadores. Além disso, o Betao conta com sistemas de segurança modernos que protegem os dados dos usuários, promovendo um ambiente confiável para jogar com tranquilidade.
Um dos maiores atrativos do Betao é a sua diversidade de jogos. A plataforma oferece opções para quem gosta de jogos rápidos e dinâmicos, como também para aqueles que preferem estratégias mais elaboradas. Entre os destaques, estão os jogos de cartas tradicionais, como o pôquer e o blackjack, além de versões modernas com gráficos surpreendentes e mecânicas envolventes.
Outro ponto forte é a seção de jogos com roletas, onde a emoção de cada giro é potencializada por gráficos realistas e sons imersivos. Os jogos de dados e os famosos títulos de “crash” também fazem parte do catálogo, oferecendo uma dinâmica diferente e desafiadora para quem busca algo além do comum.
Os desenvolvedores parceiros do Betao são reconhecidos no mercado pela qualidade de seus jogos, o que garante um alto padrão de performance, gráficos e jogabilidade. Com atualizações constantes, a plataforma está sempre trazendo novidades para manter o jogador engajado.
Experiência do Jogador: Diversão com Recompensas Reais O Betao entende que a experiência do jogador vai muito além do jogo em si. Por isso, investe em promoções exclusivas, bônus generosos e programas de fidelidade que valorizam quem escolhe a plataforma. Novos usuários são recebidos com ofertas especiais de boas-vindas, enquanto os jogadores frequentes acumulam vantagens e benefícios exclusivos.
A interação com a comunidade também é um diferencial. O Betao promove torneios e desafios que incentivam a competição saudável e a socialização entre os participantes. Tudo isso contribui para uma experiência muito mais rica e envolvente.
Outro ponto que merece destaque é a rapidez nos pagamentos e retiradas. O Betao oferece diferentes métodos de transações, todos seguros e com prazos reduzidos, garantindo que o jogador possa curtir suas recompensas sem demora.
Conclusão Com um catálogo diversificado, uma plataforma segura e moderna e uma experiência pensada para o jogador brasileiro, o Betao se consolida como uma excelente opção para quem busca entretenimento online de qualidade. Se você está em busca de diversão, emoção e recompensas reais, o Betao é, sem dúvida, a escolha certa. Acesse, descubra os jogos disponíveis e mergulhe em uma nova forma de jogar!
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@ 5c26ee8b:a4d229aa
2025-04-24 20:36:295:118 Al-Maaida
إِنْ تُعَذِّبْهُمْ فَإِنَّهُمْ عِبَادُكَ ۖ وَإِنْ تَغْفِرْ لَهُمْ فَإِنَّكَ أَنْتَ الْعَزِيزُ الْحَكِيمُ
If You should punish them - indeed they are Your servants; but if You forgive them - indeed it is You who is the Exalted in Might, the Wise.
The previous verse will be said by prophet Jesus, peace be upon him, on the day of reckoning.
No one will enter paradise without God’s mercy.
16:61 An-Nahl
وَلَوْ يُؤَاخِذُ اللَّهُ النَّاسَ بِظُلْمِهِمْ مَا تَرَكَ عَلَيْهَا مِنْ دَابَّةٍ وَلَٰكِنْ يُؤَخِّرُهُمْ إِلَىٰ أَجَلٍ مُسَمًّى ۖ فَإِذَا جَاءَ أَجَلُهُمْ لَا يَسْتَأْخِرُونَ سَاعَةً ۖ وَلَا يَسْتَقْدِمُونَ
And if Allah were to impose blame on the people for their wrongdoing, He would not have left upon the earth any creature, but He defers them for a specified term. And when their term has come, they will not remain behind an hour, nor will they precede [it].
And no one will enter paradise with pride in the heart. Pride belongs only to God, Allah, as mentioned in the next verse.
45:37 Al-Jaathiya
وَلَهُ الْكِبْرِيَاءُ فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضِ ۖ وَهُوَ الْعَزِيزُ الْحَكِيمُ
And to Him belongs [all] the pride within the heavens and the earth, and He is the Exalted in Might, the Wise.
It is narrated on the authority of 'Abdullah b. Mas'ud that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) observed: None shall enter the Fire (of Hell) who has in his heart the weight of a mustard seed of belief (in the oneness of God and resurrection day) and none shall enter Paradise who has in his heart the weight of a mustard seed of pride.
حَدَّثَنَا مِنْجَابُ بْنُ الْحَارِثِ التَّمِيمِيُّ، وَسُوَيْدُ بْنُ سَعِيدٍ، كِلاَهُمَا عَنْ عَلِيِّ بْنِ مُسْهِرٍ، - قَالَ مِنْجَابٌ أَخْبَرَنَا ابْنُ مُسْهِرٍ، - عَنِ الأَعْمَشِ، عَنْ إِبْرَاهِيمَ، عَنْ عَلْقَمَةَ، عَنْ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ، قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم " لاَ يَدْخُلُ النَّارَ أَحَدٌ فِي قَلْبِهِ مِثْقَالُ حَبَّةِ خَرْدَلٍ مِنْ إِيمَانٍ وَلاَ يَدْخُلُ الْجَنَّةَ أَحَدٌ فِي قَلْبِهِ مِثْقَالُ حَبَّةِ خَرْدَلٍ مِنْ كِبْرِيَاءَ " .
God, Allah doesn’t forgive that any other is associated with him in worship. Also, the good deeds of disbelievers will worth nothing.
4:116 An-Nisaa
إِنَّ اللَّهَ لَا يَغْفِرُ أَنْ يُشْرَكَ بِهِ وَيَغْفِرُ مَا دُونَ ذَٰلِكَ لِمَنْ يَشَاءُ ۚ وَمَنْ يُشْرِكْ بِاللَّهِ فَقَدْ ضَلَّ ضَلَالًا بَعِيدًا
Indeed, Allah does not forgive association with Him, but He forgives what is less than that for whom He wills. And he who associates others with Allah has certainly gone far astray.
18:103 Al-Kahf
قُلْ هَلْ نُنَبِّئُكُمْ بِالْأَخْسَرِينَ أَعْمَالًا
Say, [O Muhammad], "Shall we [believers] inform you of the greatest losers as to [their] deeds?
18:104 Al-Kahf
الَّذِينَ ضَلَّ سَعْيُهُمْ فِي الْحَيَاةِ الدُّنْيَا وَهُمْ يَحْسَبُونَ أَنَّهُمْ يُحْسِنُونَ صُنْعًا
[They are] those whose effort is lost in worldly life, while they think that they are doing well in work."
18:105 Al-Kahf
أُولَٰئِكَ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا بِآيَاتِ رَبِّهِمْ وَلِقَائِهِ فَحَبِطَتْ أَعْمَالُهُمْ فَلَا نُقِيمُ لَهُمْ يَوْمَ الْقِيَامَةِ وَزْنًا
Those are the ones who disbelieve in the verses of their Lord and in [their] meeting Him, so their deeds have become worthless; and We will not assign to them on the Day of Resurrection any importance.
18:106 Al-Kahf
ذَٰلِكَ جَزَاؤُهُمْ جَهَنَّمُ بِمَا كَفَرُوا وَاتَّخَذُوا آيَاتِي وَرُسُلِي هُزُوًا
That is their recompense - Hell - for what they denied and [because] they took My signs and My messengers in ridicule.
18:107 Al-Kahf
إِنَّ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ كَانَتْ لَهُمْ جَنَّاتُ الْفِرْدَوْسِ نُزُلًا
Indeed, those who have believed and done righteous deeds - they will have the Gardens of Paradise as a lodging,
God, Allah, sent messengers to inform the people about him as the one and only God.
6:47 Al-An'aam
قُلْ أَرَأَيْتَكُمْ إِنْ أَتَاكُمْ عَذَابُ اللَّهِ بَغْتَةً أَوْ جَهْرَةً هَلْ يُهْلَكُ إِلَّا الْقَوْمُ الظَّالِمُونَ
Say, "Have you considered: if the punishment of Allah should come to you unexpectedly or manifestly, will any be destroyed but the wrongdoing people?"
6:48 Al-An'aam
وَمَا نُرْسِلُ الْمُرْسَلِينَ إِلَّا مُبَشِّرِينَ وَمُنْذِرِينَ ۖ فَمَنْ آمَنَ وَأَصْلَحَ فَلَا خَوْفٌ عَلَيْهِمْ وَلَا هُمْ يَحْزَنُونَ
And We send not the messengers except as bringers of good tidings and warners. So whoever believes and reforms - there will be no fear concerning them, nor will they grieve.
6:49 Al-An'aam
وَالَّذِينَ كَذَّبُوا بِآيَاتِنَا يَمَسُّهُمُ الْعَذَابُ بِمَا كَانُوا يَفْسُقُونَ
But those who deny Our verses - the punishment will touch them for their defiant disobedience.
6:50 Al-An'aam
قُلْ لَا أَقُولُ لَكُمْ عِنْدِي خَزَائِنُ اللَّهِ وَلَا أَعْلَمُ الْغَيْبَ وَلَا أَقُولُ لَكُمْ إِنِّي مَلَكٌ ۖ إِنْ أَتَّبِعُ إِلَّا مَا يُوحَىٰ إِلَيَّ ۚ قُلْ هَلْ يَسْتَوِي الْأَعْمَىٰ وَالْبَصِيرُ ۚ أَفَلَا تَتَفَكَّرُونَ
Say, [O Muhammad], "I do not tell you that I have the depositories [containing the provision] of Allah or that I know the unseen, nor do I tell you that I am an angel. I only follow what is revealed to me." Say, "Is the blind equivalent to the seeing? Then will you not give thought?"
6:51 Al-An'aam
وَأَنْذِرْ بِهِ الَّذِينَ يَخَافُونَ أَنْ يُحْشَرُوا إِلَىٰ رَبِّهِمْ ۙ لَيْسَ لَهُمْ مِنْ دُونِهِ وَلِيٌّ وَلَا شَفِيعٌ لَعَلَّهُمْ يَتَّقُونَ
And warn by the Qur'an those who fear that they will be gathered before their Lord - for them besides Him will be no protector and no intercessor - that they might become righteous.
16:23 An-Nahl
لَا جَرَمَ أَنَّ اللَّهَ يَعْلَمُ مَا يُسِرُّونَ وَمَا يُعْلِنُونَ ۚ إِنَّهُ لَا يُحِبُّ الْمُسْتَكْبِرِينَ
Assuredly, Allah knows what they conceal and what they declare. Indeed, He does not like the arrogant.
16:24 An-Nahl
وَإِذَا قِيلَ لَهُمْ مَاذَا أَنْزَلَ رَبُّكُمْ ۙ قَالُوا أَسَاطِيرُ الْأَوَّلِينَ
And when it is said to them, "What has your Lord sent down?" They say, "Legends of the former peoples,"
16:25 An-Nahl
لِيَحْمِلُوا أَوْزَارَهُمْ كَامِلَةً يَوْمَ الْقِيَامَةِ ۙ وَمِنْ أَوْزَارِ الَّذِينَ يُضِلُّونَهُمْ بِغَيْرِ عِلْمٍ ۗ أَلَا سَاءَ مَا يَزِرُونَ
That they may bear their own burdens in full on the Day of Resurrection and some of the burdens of those whom they misguide without knowledge. Unquestionably, evil is that which they bear.
16:26 An-Nahl
قَدْ مَكَرَ الَّذِينَ مِنْ قَبْلِهِمْ فَأَتَى اللَّهُ بُنْيَانَهُمْ مِنَ الْقَوَاعِدِ فَخَرَّ عَلَيْهِمُ السَّقْفُ مِنْ فَوْقِهِمْ وَأَتَاهُمُ الْعَذَابُ مِنْ حَيْثُ لَا يَشْعُرُونَ
Those before them had already plotted, but Allah came at their building from the foundations, so the roof fell upon them from above them, and the punishment came to them from where they did not perceive.
16:27 An-Nahl
ثُمَّ يَوْمَ الْقِيَامَةِ يُخْزِيهِمْ وَيَقُولُ أَيْنَ شُرَكَائِيَ الَّذِينَ كُنْتُمْ تُشَاقُّونَ فِيهِمْ ۚ قَالَ الَّذِينَ أُوتُوا الْعِلْمَ إِنَّ الْخِزْيَ الْيَوْمَ وَالسُّوءَ عَلَى الْكَافِرِينَ
Then on the Day of Resurrection He will disgrace them and say, "Where are My 'partners' for whom you used to oppose [the believers]?" Those who were given knowledge will say, "Indeed disgrace, this Day, and evil are upon the disbelievers" -
16:28 An-Nahl
الَّذِينَ تَتَوَفَّاهُمُ الْمَلَائِكَةُ ظَالِمِي أَنْفُسِهِمْ ۖ فَأَلْقَوُا السَّلَمَ مَا كُنَّا نَعْمَلُ مِنْ سُوءٍ ۚ بَلَىٰ إِنَّ اللَّهَ عَلِيمٌ بِمَا كُنْتُمْ تَعْمَلُونَ
The ones whom the angels take in death [while] wronging themselves, and [who] then offer submission, [saying], "We were not doing any evil." But, yes! Indeed, Allah is Knowing of what you used to do.
16:29 An-Nahl
فَادْخُلُوا أَبْوَابَ جَهَنَّمَ خَالِدِينَ فِيهَا ۖ فَلَبِئْسَ مَثْوَى الْمُتَكَبِّرِينَ
So enter the gates of Hell to abide eternally therein, and how wretched is the residence of the arrogant.
16:30 An-Nahl
۞ وَقِيلَ لِلَّذِينَ اتَّقَوْا مَاذَا أَنْزَلَ رَبُّكُمْ ۚ قَالُوا خَيْرًا ۗ لِلَّذِينَ أَحْسَنُوا فِي هَٰذِهِ الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةٌ ۚ وَلَدَارُ الْآخِرَةِ خَيْرٌ ۚ وَلَنِعْمَ دَارُ الْمُتَّقِينَ
And it will be said to those who feared Allah, "What did your Lord send down?" They will say, "[That which is] good." For those who do good in this world is good; and the home of the Hereafter is better. And how excellent is the home of the righteous -
16:31 An-Nahl
جَنَّاتُ عَدْنٍ يَدْخُلُونَهَا تَجْرِي مِنْ تَحْتِهَا الْأَنْهَارُ ۖ لَهُمْ فِيهَا مَا يَشَاءُونَ ۚ كَذَٰلِكَ يَجْزِي اللَّهُ الْمُتَّقِينَ
Gardens of perpetual residence, which they will enter, beneath which rivers flow. They will have therein whatever they wish. Thus does Allah reward the righteous -
16:32 An-Nahl
الَّذِينَ تَتَوَفَّاهُمُ الْمَلَائِكَةُ طَيِّبِينَ ۙ يَقُولُونَ سَلَامٌ عَلَيْكُمُ ادْخُلُوا الْجَنَّةَ بِمَا كُنْتُمْ تَعْمَلُونَ
The ones whom the angels take in death, [being] good and pure; [the angels] will say, "Peace be upon you. Enter Paradise for what you used to do."
16:33 An-Nahl
هَلْ يَنْظُرُونَ إِلَّا أَنْ تَأْتِيَهُمُ الْمَلَائِكَةُ أَوْ يَأْتِيَ أَمْرُ رَبِّكَ ۚ كَذَٰلِكَ فَعَلَ الَّذِينَ مِنْ قَبْلِهِمْ ۚ وَمَا ظَلَمَهُمُ اللَّهُ وَلَٰكِنْ كَانُوا أَنْفُسَهُمْ يَظْلِمُونَ
Do the disbelievers await [anything] except that the angels should come to them or there comes the command of your Lord? Thus did those do before them. And Allah wronged them not, but they had been wronging themselves.
16:34 An-Nahl
فَأَصَابَهُمْ سَيِّئَاتُ مَا عَمِلُوا وَحَاقَ بِهِمْ مَا كَانُوا بِهِ يَسْتَهْزِئُونَ
So they were struck by the evil consequences of what they did and were enveloped by what they used to ridicule.
16:35 An-Nahl
وَقَالَ الَّذِينَ أَشْرَكُوا لَوْ شَاءَ اللَّهُ مَا عَبَدْنَا مِنْ دُونِهِ مِنْ شَيْءٍ نَحْنُ وَلَا آبَاؤُنَا وَلَا حَرَّمْنَا مِنْ دُونِهِ مِنْ شَيْءٍ ۚ كَذَٰلِكَ فَعَلَ الَّذِينَ مِنْ قَبْلِهِمْ ۚ فَهَلْ عَلَى الرُّسُلِ إِلَّا الْبَلَاغُ الْمُبِينُ
And those who associate others with Allah say, "If Allah had willed, we would not have worshipped anything other than Him, neither we nor our fathers, nor would we have forbidden anything through other than Him." Thus did those do before them. So is there upon the messengers except [the duty of] clear notification?
16:36 An-Nahl
وَلَقَدْ بَعَثْنَا فِي كُلِّ أُمَّةٍ رَسُولًا أَنِ اعْبُدُوا اللَّهَ وَاجْتَنِبُوا الطَّاغُوتَ ۖ فَمِنْهُمْ مَنْ هَدَى اللَّهُ وَمِنْهُمْ مَنْ حَقَّتْ عَلَيْهِ الضَّلَالَةُ ۚ فَسِيرُوا فِي الْأَرْضِ فَانْظُرُوا كَيْفَ كَانَ عَاقِبَةُ الْمُكَذِّبِينَ
And We certainly sent into every nation a messenger, [saying], "Worship Allah and avoid Taghut (the false deities)." And among them were those whom Allah guided, and among them were those upon whom error was [deservedly] decreed. So proceed through the earth and observe how was the end of the deniers.
16:37 An-Nahl
إِنْ تَحْرِصْ عَلَىٰ هُدَاهُمْ فَإِنَّ اللَّهَ لَا يَهْدِي مَنْ يُضِلُّ ۖ وَمَا لَهُمْ مِنْ نَاصِرِينَ
[Even] if you should strive for their guidance, indeed, Allah does not guide those He sends astray, and they will have no helpers.
3:176 Aal-i-Imraan
وَلَا يَحْزُنْكَ الَّذِينَ يُسَارِعُونَ فِي الْكُفْرِ ۚ إِنَّهُمْ لَنْ يَضُرُّوا اللَّهَ شَيْئًا ۗ يُرِيدُ اللَّهُ أَلَّا يَجْعَلَ لَهُمْ حَظًّا فِي الْآخِرَةِ ۖ وَلَهُمْ عَذَابٌ عَظِيمٌ
And do not be saddened, [O Muhammad], by those who hasten into disbelief. Indeed, they will never harm Allah at all. Allah intends that He should give them no share in the Hereafter, and for them is a great punishment.
3:177 Aal-i-Imraan
إِنَّ الَّذِينَ اشْتَرَوُا الْكُفْرَ بِالْإِيمَانِ لَنْ يَضُرُّوا اللَّهَ شَيْئًا وَلَهُمْ عَذَابٌ أَلِيمٌ
Indeed, those who purchase disbelief [in exchange] for faith - never will they harm Allah at all, and for them is a painful punishment.
3:178 Aal-i-Imraan
وَلَا يَحْسَبَنَّ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا أَنَّمَا نُمْلِي لَهُمْ خَيْرٌ لِأَنْفُسِهِمْ ۚ إِنَّمَا نُمْلِي لَهُمْ لِيَزْدَادُوا إِثْمًا ۚ وَلَهُمْ عَذَابٌ مُهِينٌ
And let not those who disbelieve ever think that [because] We fill for them time [of worldly things, among which wealth or time], it is better for them. We only fill for them so that they may increase in sin, and for them is a humiliating punishment.
3:179 Aal-i-Imraan
مَا كَانَ اللَّهُ لِيَذَرَ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ عَلَىٰ مَا أَنْتُمْ عَلَيْهِ حَتَّىٰ يَمِيزَ الْخَبِيثَ مِنَ الطَّيِّبِ ۗ وَمَا كَانَ اللَّهُ لِيُطْلِعَكُمْ عَلَى الْغَيْبِ وَلَٰكِنَّ اللَّهَ يَجْتَبِي مِنْ رُسُلِهِ مَنْ يَشَاءُ ۖ فَآمِنُوا بِاللَّهِ وَرُسُلِهِ ۚ وَإِنْ تُؤْمِنُوا وَتَتَّقُوا فَلَكُمْ أَجْرٌ عَظِيمٌ
Allah would not leave the believers in that [state] you are in [presently] until He separates the evil from the good. Nor would Allah reveal to you the unseen. But [instead], Allah chooses of His messengers whom He wills, so believe in Allah and His messengers. And if you believe and fear Him, then for you is a great reward.
6:54 Al-An'aam
وَإِذَا جَاءَكَ الَّذِينَ يُؤْمِنُونَ بِآيَاتِنَا فَقُلْ سَلَامٌ عَلَيْكُمْ ۖ كَتَبَ رَبُّكُمْ عَلَىٰ نَفْسِهِ الرَّحْمَةَ ۖ أَنَّهُ مَنْ عَمِلَ مِنْكُمْ سُوءًا بِجَهَالَةٍ ثُمَّ تَابَ مِنْ بَعْدِهِ وَأَصْلَحَ فَأَنَّهُ غَفُورٌ رَحِيمٌ
And when those come to you who believe in Our verses, say, "Peace be upon you. Your Lord has decreed upon Himself mercy: that any of you who does wrong out of ignorance and then repents after that and corrects himself - indeed, He is Forgiving and Merciful."
6:55 Al-An'aam
وَكَذَٰلِكَ نُفَصِّلُ الْآيَاتِ وَلِتَسْتَبِينَ سَبِيلُ الْمُجْرِمِينَ
And thus do We detail the verses, and [thus] the way of the criminals will become evident.
6:56 Al-An'aam
قُلْ إِنِّي نُهِيتُ أَنْ أَعْبُدَ الَّذِينَ تَدْعُونَ مِنْ دُونِ اللَّهِ ۚ قُلْ لَا أَتَّبِعُ أَهْوَاءَكُمْ ۙ قَدْ ضَلَلْتُ إِذًا وَمَا أَنَا مِنَ الْمُهْتَدِينَ
Say, "Indeed, I have been forbidden to worship those you invoke besides Allah." Say, "I will not follow your desires, for I would then have gone astray, and I would not be of the [rightly] guided."
6:57 Al-An'aam
قُلْ إِنِّي عَلَىٰ بَيِّنَةٍ مِنْ رَبِّي وَكَذَّبْتُمْ بِهِ ۚ مَا عِنْدِي مَا تَسْتَعْجِلُونَ بِهِ ۚ إِنِ الْحُكْمُ إِلَّا لِلَّهِ ۖ يَقُصُّ الْحَقَّ ۖ وَهُوَ خَيْرُ الْفَاصِلِينَ
Say, "Indeed, I am on clear evidence from my Lord, and you have denied it. I do not have that for which you are impatient. The decision is only for Allah. He relates the truth, and He is the best of deciders."
6:58 Al-An'aam
قُلْ لَوْ أَنَّ عِنْدِي مَا تَسْتَعْجِلُونَ بِهِ لَقُضِيَ الْأَمْرُ بَيْنِي وَبَيْنَكُمْ ۗ وَاللَّهُ أَعْلَمُ بِالظَّالِمِينَ
Say, "If I had that for which you are impatient, the matter would have been decided between me and you, but Allah is most knowing of the wrongdoers."
6:59 Al-An'aam
۞ وَعِنْدَهُ مَفَاتِحُ الْغَيْبِ لَا يَعْلَمُهَا إِلَّا هُوَ ۚ وَيَعْلَمُ مَا فِي الْبَرِّ وَالْبَحْرِ ۚ وَمَا تَسْقُطُ مِنْ وَرَقَةٍ إِلَّا يَعْلَمُهَا وَلَا حَبَّةٍ فِي ظُلُمَاتِ الْأَرْضِ وَلَا رَطْبٍ وَلَا يَابِسٍ إِلَّا فِي كِتَابٍ مُبِينٍ
And with Him are the keys of the unseen; none knows them except Him. And He knows what is on the land and in the sea. Not a leaf falls but that He knows it. And no grain is there within the darknesses of the earth and no moist or dry [thing] but that it is [written] in a clear record.
6:60 Al-An'aam
وَهُوَ الَّذِي يَتَوَفَّاكُمْ بِاللَّيْلِ وَيَعْلَمُ مَا جَرَحْتُمْ بِالنَّهَارِ ثُمَّ يَبْعَثُكُمْ فِيهِ لِيُقْضَىٰ أَجَلٌ مُسَمًّى ۖ ثُمَّ إِلَيْهِ مَرْجِعُكُمْ ثُمَّ يُنَبِّئُكُمْ بِمَا كُنْتُمْ تَعْمَلُونَ
And it is He who takes your souls by night and knows what you have committed by day. Then He revives you therein that a specified term may be fulfilled. Then to Him will be your return; then He will inform you about what you used to do.
6:61 Al-An'aam
وَهُوَ الْقَاهِرُ فَوْقَ عِبَادِهِ ۖ وَيُرْسِلُ عَلَيْكُمْ حَفَظَةً حَتَّىٰ إِذَا جَاءَ أَحَدَكُمُ الْمَوْتُ تَوَفَّتْهُ رُسُلُنَا وَهُمْ لَا يُفَرِّطُونَ
And He is the subjugator over His servants, and He sends over you guardian-angels until, when death comes to one of you, Our messengers take him, and they do not fail [in their duties].
6:62 Al-An'aam
ثُمَّ رُدُّوا إِلَى اللَّهِ مَوْلَاهُمُ الْحَقِّ ۚ أَلَا لَهُ الْحُكْمُ وَهُوَ أَسْرَعُ الْحَاسِبِينَ
Then they His servants are returned to Allah, their true Lord. Unquestionably, His is the judgement, and He is the swiftest of accountants.
84:6 Al-Inshiqaaq
يَا أَيُّهَا الْإِنْسَانُ إِنَّكَ كَادِحٌ إِلَىٰ رَبِّكَ كَدْحًا فَمُلَاقِيهِ
O man, indeed you are laboring toward your Lord with [great] exertion and will meet it.
84:7 Al-Inshiqaaq
فَأَمَّا مَنْ أُوتِيَ كِتَابَهُ بِيَمِينِهِ
Then as for he who is given his book (where the good deeds and bad deeds are registered) in his right hand,
84:8 Al-Inshiqaaq
فَسَوْفَ يُحَاسَبُ حِسَابًا يَسِيرًا
He will be judged with an easy reckoning
84:9 Al-Inshiqaaq
وَيَنْقَلِبُ إِلَىٰ أَهْلِهِ مَسْرُورًا
And return happy to his people.
84:10 Al-Inshiqaaq
وَأَمَّا مَنْ أُوتِيَ كِتَابَهُ وَرَاءَ ظَهْرِهِ
But as for he who is given his book (where the good deeds and bad deeds are registered) behind his back,
84:11 Al-Inshiqaaq
فَسَوْفَ يَدْعُو ثُبُورًا
He will cry out for destruction
84:12 Al-Inshiqaaq
وَيَصْلَىٰ سَعِيرًا
And [enter to] burn in a Blaze.
84:13 Al-Inshiqaaq
إِنَّهُ كَانَ فِي أَهْلِهِ مَسْرُورًا
Indeed, he had [once] been among his people content;
84:14 Al-Inshiqaaq
إِنَّهُ ظَنَّ أَنْ لَنْ يَحُورَ
Indeed, he had thought he would never return [to God; Allah].
84:15 Al-Inshiqaaq
بَلَىٰ إِنَّ رَبَّهُ كَانَ بِهِ بَصِيرًا
But yes! Indeed, his Lord was ever of him, Seeing.
Everything that we do is written in our books by angels assigned to us; on our right and left. The weight of the deeds good or bad will determine where each person will end up; heavens or hellfire. However, each good deed will be rewards ten times more its value written in the person’s book and for each bad deed nothing more than it will be written. And whoever is away from worshiping God, Allah, has a Qarin; devil from jinn that drives him or her more astray and provokes to commit more sins.
50:16 Qaaf
وَلَقَدْ خَلَقْنَا الْإِنْسَانَ وَنَعْلَمُ مَا تُوَسْوِسُ بِهِ نَفْسُهُ ۖ وَنَحْنُ أَقْرَبُ إِلَيْهِ مِنْ حَبْلِ الْوَرِيدِ
And We have already created man and know what his soul whispers to him, and We are closer to him than [his] jugular vein
50:17 Qaaf
إِذْ يَتَلَقَّى الْمُتَلَقِّيَانِ عَنِ الْيَمِينِ وَعَنِ الشِّمَالِ قَعِيدٌ
When the two receivers receive, seated on the right and on the left.
50:18 Qaaf
مَا يَلْفِظُ مِنْ قَوْلٍ إِلَّا لَدَيْهِ رَقِيبٌ عَتِيدٌ
Man does not utter any word except that with him is observers (from the angels) prepared [to record in the person’s book].
50:19 Qaaf
وَجَاءَتْ سَكْرَةُ الْمَوْتِ بِالْحَقِّ ۖ ذَٰلِكَ مَا كُنْتَ مِنْهُ تَحِيدُ
And the intoxication of death will bring the truth; that is what you were trying to avoid.
50:20 Qaaf
وَنُفِخَ فِي الصُّورِ ۚ ذَٰلِكَ يَوْمُ الْوَعِيدِ
And the Horn will be blown. That is the Day of [carrying out] the threat.
50:21 Qaaf
وَجَاءَتْ كُلُّ نَفْسٍ مَعَهَا سَائِقٌ وَشَهِيدٌ
And every soul will come, with it a driver and a witness.
50:22 Qaaf
لَقَدْ كُنْتَ فِي غَفْلَةٍ مِنْ هَٰذَا فَكَشَفْنَا عَنْكَ غِطَاءَكَ فَبَصَرُكَ الْيَوْمَ حَدِيدٌ
[It will be said], "You were certainly in unmindfulness of this, and We have removed from you your cover, so your sight, this Day, is sharp."
50:23 Qaaf
وَقَالَ قَرِينُهُ هَٰذَا مَا لَدَيَّ عَتِيدٌ
And his companion, [the angel], will say, "This [record] is what is with me, prepared."
50:24 Qaaf
أَلْقِيَا فِي جَهَنَّمَ كُلَّ كَفَّارٍ عَنِيدٍ
[Allah will say], "Throw into Hell every obstinate disbeliever,
50:25 Qaaf
مَنَّاعٍ لِلْخَيْرِ مُعْتَدٍ مُرِيبٍ
Preventer of good, aggressor, and doubter,
50:26 Qaaf
الَّذِي جَعَلَ مَعَ اللَّهِ إِلَٰهًا آخَرَ فَأَلْقِيَاهُ فِي الْعَذَابِ الشَّدِيدِ
Who made [as equal] with Allah another deity; then throw him into the severe punishment."
50:27 Qaaf
۞ قَالَ قَرِينُهُ رَبَّنَا مَا أَطْغَيْتُهُ وَلَٰكِنْ كَانَ فِي ضَلَالٍ بَعِيدٍ
His Qarin [devil from jinn assigned to the person in case of disbelief or disobeying God] will say, "Our Lord, I did not make him transgress, but he [himself] was in extreme error."
50:28 Qaaf
قَالَ لَا تَخْتَصِمُوا لَدَيَّ وَقَدْ قَدَّمْتُ إِلَيْكُمْ بِالْوَعِيدِ
[Allah] will say, "Do not dispute before Me, while I had already presented to you the warning.
50:29 Qaaf
مَا يُبَدَّلُ الْقَوْلُ لَدَيَّ وَمَا أَنَا بِظَلَّامٍ لِلْعَبِيدِ
The word will not be changed with Me, and never will I be unjust to the servants."
50:30 Qaaf
يَوْمَ نَقُولُ لِجَهَنَّمَ هَلِ امْتَلَأْتِ وَتَقُولُ هَلْ مِنْ مَزِيدٍ
On the Day We will say to Hell, "Have you been filled?" and it will say, "Are there some more,"
50:31 Qaaf
وَأُزْلِفَتِ الْجَنَّةُ لِلْمُتَّقِينَ غَيْرَ بَعِيدٍ
And Paradise will be brought near to the righteous, not far,
50:32 Qaaf
هَٰذَا مَا تُوعَدُونَ لِكُلِّ أَوَّابٍ حَفِيظٍ
[It will be said], "This is what you were promised - for every returner [to Allah] and keeper [of His covenant]
50:33 Qaaf
مَنْ خَشِيَ الرَّحْمَٰنَ بِالْغَيْبِ وَجَاءَ بِقَلْبٍ مُنِيبٍ
Who feared the Most Merciful (while) unseen and came with a heart returning [in repentance].
50:34 Qaaf
ادْخُلُوهَا بِسَلَامٍ ۖ ذَٰلِكَ يَوْمُ الْخُلُودِ
Enter it in peace. This is the Day of Eternity."
50:35 Qaaf
لَهُمْ مَا يَشَاءُونَ فِيهَا وَلَدَيْنَا مَزِيدٌ
They will have whatever they wish therein, and with Us is more.
50:36 Qaaf
وَكَمْ أَهْلَكْنَا قَبْلَهُمْ مِنْ قَرْنٍ هُمْ أَشَدُّ مِنْهُمْ بَطْشًا فَنَقَّبُوا فِي الْبِلَادِ هَلْ مِنْ مَحِيصٍ
And how many a generation before them did We destroy who were greater than them in [striking] power and had explored throughout the lands. Is there any place of escape?
50:37 Qaaf
إِنَّ فِي ذَٰلِكَ لَذِكْرَىٰ لِمَنْ كَانَ لَهُ قَلْبٌ أَوْ أَلْقَى السَّمْعَ وَهُوَ شَهِيدٌ
Indeed in that is a reminder for whoever has a heart or who listens while he is present [in mind].
23:102 Al-Muminoon
فَمَنْ ثَقُلَتْ مَوَازِينُهُ فَأُولَٰئِكَ هُمُ الْمُفْلِحُونَ
And those whose scales are heavy [with good deeds] - it is they who are the successful.
23:103 Al-Muminoon
وَمَنْ خَفَّتْ مَوَازِينُهُ فَأُولَٰئِكَ الَّذِينَ خَسِرُوا أَنْفُسَهُمْ فِي جَهَنَّمَ خَالِدُونَ
But those whose scales are light - those are the ones who have lost their souls, [being] in Hell, abiding eternally.
23:104 Al-Muminoon
تَلْفَحُ وُجُوهَهُمُ النَّارُ وَهُمْ فِيهَا كَالِحُونَ
The Fire will sear their faces, and they therein will have taut smiles.
23:105 Al-Muminoon
أَلَمْ تَكُنْ آيَاتِي تُتْلَىٰ عَلَيْكُمْ فَكُنْتُمْ بِهَا تُكَذِّبُونَ
[It will be said]. "Were not My verses recited to you and you used to belie them?"
23:106 Al-Muminoon
قَالُوا رَبَّنَا غَلَبَتْ عَلَيْنَا شِقْوَتُنَا وَكُنَّا قَوْمًا ضَالِّينَ
They will say, "Our Lord, our wretchedness overcame us, and we were a people astray.
23:107 Al-Muminoon
رَبَّنَا أَخْرِجْنَا مِنْهَا فَإِنْ عُدْنَا فَإِنَّا ظَالِمُونَ
Our Lord, remove us from it, and if we were to return [to evil], we would indeed be wrongdoers."
23:108 Al-Muminoon
قَالَ اخْسَئُوا فِيهَا وَلَا تُكَلِّمُونِ
He will say, "Remain despised therein and do not speak to Me.
23:109 Al-Muminoon
إِنَّهُ كَانَ فَرِيقٌ مِنْ عِبَادِي يَقُولُونَ رَبَّنَا آمَنَّا فَاغْفِرْ لَنَا وَارْحَمْنَا وَأَنْتَ خَيْرُ الرَّاحِمِينَ
Indeed, there was a party of My servants who said, 'Our Lord, we have believed, so forgive us and have mercy upon us, and You are the best of the merciful.'
23:110 Al-Muminoon
فَاتَّخَذْتُمُوهُمْ سِخْرِيًّا حَتَّىٰ أَنْسَوْكُمْ ذِكْرِي وَكُنْتُمْ مِنْهُمْ تَضْحَكُونَ
But you took them in mockery to the point that they made you forget My remembrance, and you used to laugh at them.
23:111 Al-Muminoon
إِنِّي جَزَيْتُهُمُ الْيَوْمَ بِمَا صَبَرُوا أَنَّهُمْ هُمُ الْفَائِزُونَ
Indeed, I have rewarded them this Day for their patient endurance - that they are the attainers [of success]."
6:160 Al-An'aam
مَنْ جَاءَ بِالْحَسَنَةِ فَلَهُ عَشْرُ أَمْثَالِهَا ۖ وَمَنْ جَاءَ بِالسَّيِّئَةِ فَلَا يُجْزَىٰ إِلَّا مِثْلَهَا وَهُمْ لَا يُظْلَمُونَ
Whoever comes [on the Day of Judgement] with a good deed will have ten times the like thereof [to his credit], and whoever comes with an evil deed will not be recompensed except the like thereof; and they will not be wronged.
More often whoever does wrong thinks that nobody saw them, however, the person’s own ears, eyes and skin will witness against him/her on Judgement Day.
41:19 Fussilat
وَيَوْمَ يُحْشَرُ أَعْدَاءُ اللَّهِ إِلَى النَّارِ فَهُمْ يُوزَعُونَ
And [mention, O Muhammad], the Day when the enemies of Allah will be gathered to the Fire while they are [driven] assembled in rows,
41:20 Fussilat
حَتَّىٰ إِذَا مَا جَاءُوهَا شَهِدَ عَلَيْهِمْ سَمْعُهُمْ وَأَبْصَارُهُمْ وَجُلُودُهُمْ بِمَا كَانُوا يَعْمَلُونَ
Until, when they reach it (hellfire), their hearing and their eyes and their skins will testify against them of what they used to do.
41:21 Fussilat
وَقَالُوا لِجُلُودِهِمْ لِمَ شَهِدْتُمْ عَلَيْنَا ۖ قَالُوا أَنْطَقَنَا اللَّهُ الَّذِي أَنْطَقَ كُلَّ شَيْءٍ وَهُوَ خَلَقَكُمْ أَوَّلَ مَرَّةٍ وَإِلَيْهِ تُرْجَعُونَ
And they will say to their skins, "Why have you testified against us?" They will say, "We were made to speak by Allah, who has made everything speak; and He created you the first time, and to Him you are returned.
41:22 Fussilat
وَمَا كُنْتُمْ تَسْتَتِرُونَ أَنْ يَشْهَدَ عَلَيْكُمْ سَمْعُكُمْ وَلَا أَبْصَارُكُمْ وَلَا جُلُودُكُمْ وَلَٰكِنْ ظَنَنْتُمْ أَنَّ اللَّهَ لَا يَعْلَمُ كَثِيرًا مِمَّا تَعْمَلُونَ
And you were not covering yourselves, lest your hearing testify against you or your sight or your skins, but you assumed that Allah does not know much of what you do.
41:25 Fussilat
۞ وَقَيَّضْنَا لَهُمْ قُرَنَاءَ فَزَيَّنُوا لَهُمْ مَا بَيْنَ أَيْدِيهِمْ وَمَا خَلْفَهُمْ وَحَقَّ عَلَيْهِمُ الْقَوْلُ فِي أُمَمٍ قَدْ خَلَتْ مِنْ قَبْلِهِمْ مِنَ الْجِنِّ وَالْإِنْسِ ۖ إِنَّهُمْ كَانُوا خَاسِرِينَ
And We appointed for them companions (for each of them a Qarin; devil of jinn) who made attractive to them what was before them and what was behind them [of sin], and the word has come into effect upon them among nations which had passed on before them of jinn and men. Indeed, they [all] were losers.
In the following a description of some of the events that will happen on the day of the reckoning.
2:166 Al-Baqara
إِذْ تَبَرَّأَ الَّذِينَ اتُّبِعُوا مِنَ الَّذِينَ اتَّبَعُوا وَرَأَوُا الْعَذَابَ وَتَقَطَّعَتْ بِهِمُ الْأَسْبَابُ
[And they should consider that] when those who have been followed disassociate themselves from those who followed [them], and they [all] see the punishment, and cut off from them are the ties [of relationship],
2:167 Al-Baqara
وَقَالَ الَّذِينَ اتَّبَعُوا لَوْ أَنَّ لَنَا كَرَّةً فَنَتَبَرَّأَ مِنْهُمْ كَمَا تَبَرَّءُوا مِنَّا ۗ كَذَٰلِكَ يُرِيهِمُ اللَّهُ أَعْمَالَهُمْ حَسَرَاتٍ عَلَيْهِمْ ۖ وَمَا هُمْ بِخَارِجِينَ مِنَ النَّارِ
Those who followed will say, "If only we had another turn [at worldly life] so we could disassociate ourselves from them as they have disassociated themselves from us." Thus will Allah show them their deeds as regrets upon them. And they are never to emerge from the Fire.
57:12 Al-Hadid
يَوْمَ تَرَى الْمُؤْمِنِينَ وَالْمُؤْمِنَاتِ يَسْعَىٰ نُورُهُمْ بَيْنَ أَيْدِيهِمْ وَبِأَيْمَانِهِمْ بُشْرَاكُمُ الْيَوْمَ جَنَّاتٌ تَجْرِي مِنْ تَحْتِهَا الْأَنْهَارُ خَالِدِينَ فِيهَا ۚ ذَٰلِكَ هُوَ الْفَوْزُ الْعَظِيمُ
On the Day you see the believing men and believing women, their light proceeding before them and on their right, [it will be said], "Your good tidings today are [of] gardens beneath which rivers flow, wherein you will abide eternally." That is what is the great attainment.
57:13 Al-Hadid
يَوْمَ يَقُولُ الْمُنَافِقُونَ وَالْمُنَافِقَاتُ لِلَّذِينَ آمَنُوا انْظُرُونَا نَقْتَبِسْ مِنْ نُورِكُمْ قِيلَ ارْجِعُوا وَرَاءَكُمْ فَالْتَمِسُوا نُورًا فَضُرِبَ بَيْنَهُمْ بِسُورٍ لَهُ بَابٌ بَاطِنُهُ فِيهِ الرَّحْمَةُ وَظَاهِرُهُ مِنْ قِبَلِهِ الْعَذَابُ
On the [same] Day the hypocrite men and hypocrite women will say to those who believed, "Wait for us that we may acquire some of your light." It will be said, "Go back behind you and seek light." And a wall will be placed between them with a door, its interior containing mercy, but on the outside of it is torment.
57:14 Al-Hadid
يُنَادُونَهُمْ أَلَمْ نَكُنْ مَعَكُمْ ۖ قَالُوا بَلَىٰ وَلَٰكِنَّكُمْ فَتَنْتُمْ أَنْفُسَكُمْ وَتَرَبَّصْتُمْ وَارْتَبْتُمْ وَغَرَّتْكُمُ الْأَمَانِيُّ حَتَّىٰ جَاءَ أَمْرُ اللَّهِ وَغَرَّكُمْ بِاللَّهِ الْغَرُورُ
The hypocrites will call to the believers, "Were we not with you?" They will say, "Yes, but you afflicted yourselves and awaited [misfortune for us] and doubted, and wishful thinking deluded you until there came the command of Allah. And the Deceiver deceived you concerning Allah.
57:15 Al-Hadid
فَالْيَوْمَ لَا يُؤْخَذُ مِنْكُمْ فِدْيَةٌ وَلَا مِنَ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا ۚ مَأْوَاكُمُ النَّارُ ۖ هِيَ مَوْلَاكُمْ ۖ وَبِئْسَ الْمَصِيرُ
So today no ransom will be taken from you or from those who disbelieved. Your refuge is the Fire. It is most worthy of you, and wretched is the destination.
57:16 Al-Hadid
۞ أَلَمْ يَأْنِ لِلَّذِينَ آمَنُوا أَنْ تَخْشَعَ قُلُوبُهُمْ لِذِكْرِ اللَّهِ وَمَا نَزَلَ مِنَ الْحَقِّ وَلَا يَكُونُوا كَالَّذِينَ أُوتُوا الْكِتَابَ مِنْ قَبْلُ فَطَالَ عَلَيْهِمُ الْأَمَدُ فَقَسَتْ قُلُوبُهُمْ ۖ وَكَثِيرٌ مِنْهُمْ فَاسِقُونَ
Has the time not come for those who have believed that their hearts should become humbly submissive at the remembrance of Allah and what has come down of the truth? And let them not be like those who were given the Scripture before, and a long period passed over them, so their hearts hardened; and many of them are defiantly disobedient.
57:17 Al-Hadid
اعْلَمُوا أَنَّ اللَّهَ يُحْيِي الْأَرْضَ بَعْدَ مَوْتِهَا ۚ قَدْ بَيَّنَّا لَكُمُ الْآيَاتِ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَعْقِلُونَ
Know that Allah gives life to the earth after its lifelessness. We have made clear to you the signs; perhaps you will understand.
57:18 Al-Hadid
إِنَّ الْمُصَّدِّقِينَ وَالْمُصَّدِّقَاتِ وَأَقْرَضُوا اللَّهَ قَرْضًا حَسَنًا يُضَاعَفُ لَهُمْ وَلَهُمْ أَجْرٌ كَرِيمٌ
Indeed, the men who practice charity and the women who practice charity and [they who] have loaned Allah a goodly loan (by spending for charity and for the cause of Allah) - it will be multiplied for them, and they will have a noble reward.
57:19 Al-Hadid
وَالَّذِينَ آمَنُوا بِاللَّهِ وَرُسُلِهِ أُولَٰئِكَ هُمُ الصِّدِّيقُونَ ۖ وَالشُّهَدَاءُ عِنْدَ رَبِّهِمْ لَهُمْ أَجْرُهُمْ وَنُورُهُمْ ۖ وَالَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا وَكَذَّبُوا بِآيَاتِنَا أُولَٰئِكَ أَصْحَابُ الْجَحِيمِ
And those who have believed in Allah and His messengers - those are [in the ranks of] the supporters of truth and the martyrs, with their Lord. For them is their reward and their light. But those who have disbelieved and denied Our verses - those are the companions of Hellfire.
57:20 Al-Hadid
اعْلَمُوا أَنَّمَا الْحَيَاةُ الدُّنْيَا لَعِبٌ وَلَهْوٌ وَزِينَةٌ وَتَفَاخُرٌ بَيْنَكُمْ وَتَكَاثُرٌ فِي الْأَمْوَالِ وَالْأَوْلَادِ ۖ كَمَثَلِ غَيْثٍ أَعْجَبَ الْكُفَّارَ نَبَاتُهُ ثُمَّ يَهِيجُ فَتَرَاهُ مُصْفَرًّا ثُمَّ يَكُونُ حُطَامًا ۖ وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ عَذَابٌ شَدِيدٌ وَمَغْفِرَةٌ مِنَ اللَّهِ وَرِضْوَانٌ ۚ وَمَا الْحَيَاةُ الدُّنْيَا إِلَّا مَتَاعُ الْغُرُورِ
Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion.
57:21 Al-Hadid
سَابِقُوا إِلَىٰ مَغْفِرَةٍ مِنْ رَبِّكُمْ وَجَنَّةٍ عَرْضُهَا كَعَرْضِ السَّمَاءِ وَالْأَرْضِ أُعِدَّتْ لِلَّذِينَ آمَنُوا بِاللَّهِ وَرُسُلِهِ ۚ ذَٰلِكَ فَضْلُ اللَّهِ يُؤْتِيهِ مَنْ يَشَاءُ ۚ وَاللَّهُ ذُو الْفَضْلِ الْعَظِيمِ
Race toward forgiveness from your Lord and a Garden whose width is like the width of the heavens and earth, prepared for those who believed in Allah and His messengers. That is the bounty of Allah which He gives to whom He wills, and Allah is the possessor of great bounty.
57:22 Al-Hadid
مَا أَصَابَ مِنْ مُصِيبَةٍ فِي الْأَرْضِ وَلَا فِي أَنْفُسِكُمْ إِلَّا فِي كِتَابٍ مِنْ قَبْلِ أَنْ نَبْرَأَهَا ۚ إِنَّ ذَٰلِكَ عَلَى اللَّهِ يَسِيرٌ
No disaster strikes upon the earth or among yourselves except that it is in a register before We bring it into being - indeed that, for Allah, is easy -
57:23 Al-Hadid
لِكَيْلَا تَأْسَوْا عَلَىٰ مَا فَاتَكُمْ وَلَا تَفْرَحُوا بِمَا آتَاكُمْ ۗ وَاللَّهُ لَا يُحِبُّ كُلَّ مُخْتَالٍ فَخُورٍ
In order that you not despair over what has eluded you and not exult [in pride] over what He has given you. And Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful -
22:1 Al-Hajj
يَا أَيُّهَا النَّاسُ اتَّقُوا رَبَّكُمْ ۚ إِنَّ زَلْزَلَةَ السَّاعَةِ شَيْءٌ عَظِيمٌ
O mankind, fear your Lord. Indeed, the convulsion of the [final] Hour is a terrible thing.
22:2 Al-Hajj
يَوْمَ تَرَوْنَهَا تَذْهَلُ كُلُّ مُرْضِعَةٍ عَمَّا أَرْضَعَتْ وَتَضَعُ كُلُّ ذَاتِ حَمْلٍ حَمْلَهَا وَتَرَى النَّاسَ سُكَارَىٰ وَمَا هُمْ بِسُكَارَىٰ وَلَٰكِنَّ عَذَابَ اللَّهِ شَدِيدٌ
On the Day you see it every nursing mother will be distracted from that [child] she was nursing, and every pregnant woman will abort her pregnancy, and you will see the people [appearing] intoxicated while they are not intoxicated; but the punishment of Allah is severe.
22:3 Al-Hajj
وَمِنَ النَّاسِ مَنْ يُجَادِلُ فِي اللَّهِ بِغَيْرِ عِلْمٍ وَيَتَّبِعُ كُلَّ شَيْطَانٍ مَرِيدٍ
And of the people is he who disputes about Allah without knowledge and follows every rebellious devil.
22:4 Al-Hajj
كُتِبَ عَلَيْهِ أَنَّهُ مَنْ تَوَلَّاهُ فَأَنَّهُ يُضِلُّهُ وَيَهْدِيهِ إِلَىٰ عَذَابِ السَّعِيرِ
It has been decreed for every devil that whoever turns to him - he will misguide him and will lead him to the punishment of the Blaze.
22:5 Al-Hajj
يَا أَيُّهَا النَّاسُ إِنْ كُنْتُمْ فِي رَيْبٍ مِنَ الْبَعْثِ فَإِنَّا خَلَقْنَاكُمْ مِنْ تُرَابٍ ثُمَّ مِنْ نُطْفَةٍ ثُمَّ مِنْ عَلَقَةٍ ثُمَّ مِنْ مُضْغَةٍ مُخَلَّقَةٍ وَغَيْرِ مُخَلَّقَةٍ لِنُبَيِّنَ لَكُمْ ۚ وَنُقِرُّ فِي الْأَرْحَامِ مَا نَشَاءُ إِلَىٰ أَجَلٍ مُسَمًّى ثُمَّ نُخْرِجُكُمْ طِفْلًا ثُمَّ لِتَبْلُغُوا أَشُدَّكُمْ ۖ وَمِنْكُمْ مَنْ يُتَوَفَّىٰ وَمِنْكُمْ مَنْ يُرَدُّ إِلَىٰ أَرْذَلِ الْعُمُرِ لِكَيْلَا يَعْلَمَ مِنْ بَعْدِ عِلْمٍ شَيْئًا ۚ وَتَرَى الْأَرْضَ هَامِدَةً فَإِذَا أَنْزَلْنَا عَلَيْهَا الْمَاءَ اهْتَزَّتْ وَرَبَتْ وَأَنْبَتَتْ مِنْ كُلِّ زَوْجٍ بَهِيجٍ
O People, if you should be in doubt about the Resurrection, then [consider that] indeed, We created you from dust, then from a sperm-drop, then from a clinging clot, and then from a lump of flesh, formed and unformed - that We may show you. And We settle in the wombs whom We will for a specified term, then We bring you out as a child, and then [We develop you] that you may reach your [time of] maturity. And among you is he who is taken in [early] death, and among you is he who is returned to the most decrepit [old] age so that he knows, after [once having] knowledge, nothing. And you see the earth barren, but when We send down upon it rain, it quivers and swells and grows [something] of every beautiful kind.
22:6 Al-Hajj
ذَٰلِكَ بِأَنَّ اللَّهَ هُوَ الْحَقُّ وَأَنَّهُ يُحْيِي الْمَوْتَىٰ وَأَنَّهُ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيرٌ
That is because Allah is the Truth and because He gives life to the dead and because He is over all things competent
22:7 Al-Hajj
وَأَنَّ السَّاعَةَ آتِيَةٌ لَا رَيْبَ فِيهَا وَأَنَّ اللَّهَ يَبْعَثُ مَنْ فِي الْقُبُورِ
And [that they may know] that the Hour is coming - no doubt about it - and that Allah will resurrect those in the graves.
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@ e691f4df:1099ad65
2025-04-24 18:56:12Viewing Bitcoin Through the Light of Awakening
Ankh & Ohm Capital’s Overview of the Psycho-Spiritual Nature of Bitcoin
Glossary:
I. Preface: The Logos of Our Logo
II. An Oracular Introduction
III. Alchemizing Greed
IV. Layers of Fractalized Thought
V. Permissionless Individuation
VI. Dispelling Paradox Through Resonance
VII. Ego Deflation
VIII. The Coin of Great Price
Preface: The Logos of Our Logo
Before we offer our lens on Bitcoin, it’s important to illuminate the meaning behind Ankh & Ohm’s name and symbol. These elements are not ornamental—they are foundational, expressing the cosmological principles that guide our work.
Our mission is to bridge the eternal with the practical. As a Bitcoin-focused family office and consulting firm, we understand capital not as an end, but as a tool—one that, when properly aligned, becomes a vehicle for divine order. We see Bitcoin not simply as a technological innovation but as an emanation of the Divine Logos—a harmonic expression of truth, transparency, and incorruptible structure. Both the beginning and the end, the Alpha and Omega.
The Ankh (☥), an ancient symbol of eternal life, is a key to the integration of opposites. It unites spirit and matter, force and form, continuity and change. It reminds us that capital, like Life, must not only be generative, but regenerative; sacred. Money must serve Life, not siphon from it.
The Ohm (Ω) holds a dual meaning. In physics, it denotes a unit of electrical resistance—the formative tension that gives energy coherence. In the Vedic tradition, Om (ॐ) is the primordial vibration—the sound from which all existence unfolds. Together, these symbols affirm a timeless truth: resistance and resonance are both sacred instruments of the Creator.
Ankh & Ohm, then, represents our striving for union, for harmony —between the flow of life and intentional structure, between incalculable abundance and measured restraint, between the lightbulb’s electrical impulse and its light-emitting filament. We stand at the threshold where intention becomes action, and where capital is not extracted, but cultivated in rhythm with the cosmos.
We exist to shepherd this transformation, as guides of this threshold —helping families, founders, and institutions align with a deeper order, where capital serves not as the prize, but as a pathway to collective Presence, Purpose, Peace and Prosperity.
An Oracular Introduction
Bitcoin is commonly understood as the first truly decentralized and secure form of digital money—a breakthrough in monetary sovereignty. But this view, while technically correct, is incomplete and spiritually shallow. Bitcoin is more than a tool for economic disruption. Bitcoin represents a mythic threshold: a symbol of the psycho-spiritual shift that many ancient traditions have long foretold.
For millennia, sages and seers have spoken of a coming Golden Age. In the Vedic Yuga cycles, in Plato’s Great Year, in the Eagle and Condor prophecies of the Americas—there exists a common thread: that humanity will emerge from darkness into a time of harmony, cooperation, and clarity. That the veil of illusion (maya, materiality) will thin, and reality will once again become transparent to the transcendent. In such an age, systems based on scarcity, deception, and centralization fall away. A new cosmology takes root—one grounded in balance, coherence, and sacred reciprocity.
But we must ask—how does such a shift happen? How do we cross from the age of scarcity, fear, and domination into one of coherence, abundance, and freedom?
One possible answer lies in the alchemy of incentive.
Bitcoin operates not just on the rules of computer science or Austrian economics, but on something far more old and subtle: the logic of transformation. It transmutes greed—a base instinct rooted in scarcity—into cooperation, transparency, and incorruptibility.
In this light, Bitcoin becomes more than code—it becomes a psychoactive protocol, one that rewires human behavior by aligning individual gain with collective integrity. It is not simply a new form of money. It is a new myth of value. A new operating system for human consciousness.
Bitcoin does not moralize. It harmonizes. It transforms the instinct for self-preservation into a pathway for planetary coherence.
Alchemizing Greed
At the heart of Bitcoin lies the ancient alchemical principle of transmutation: that which is base may be refined into gold.
Greed, long condemned as a vice, is not inherently evil. It is a distorted longing. A warped echo of the drive to preserve life. But in systems built on scarcity and deception, this longing calcifies into hoarding, corruption, and decay.
Bitcoin introduces a new game. A game with memory. A game that makes deception inefficient and truth profitable. It does not demand virtue—it encodes consequence. Its design does not suppress greed; it reprograms it.
In traditional models, game theory often illustrates the fragility of trust. The Prisoner’s Dilemma reveals how self-interest can sabotage collective well-being. But Bitcoin inverts this. It creates an environment where self-interest and integrity converge—where the most rational action is also the most truthful.
Its ledger, immutable and transparent, exposes manipulation for what it is: energetically wasteful and economically self-defeating. Dishonesty burns energy and yields nothing. The network punishes incoherence, not by decree, but by natural law.
This is the spiritual elegance of Bitcoin: it does not suppress greed—it transmutes it. It channels the drive for personal gain into the architecture of collective order. Miners compete not to dominate, but to validate. Nodes collaborate not through trust, but through mathematical proof.
This is not austerity. It is alchemy.
Greed, under Bitcoin, is refined. Tempered. Re-forged into a generative force—no longer parasitic, but harmonic.
Layers of Fractalized Thought Fragments
All living systems are layered. So is the cosmos. So is the human being. So is a musical scale.
At its foundation lies the timechain—the pulsing, incorruptible record of truth. Like the heart, it beats steadily. Every block, like a pulse, affirms its life through continuity. The difficulty adjustment—Bitcoin’s internal calibration—functions like heart rate variability, adapting to pressure while preserving coherence.
Above this base layer is the Lightning Network—a second layer facilitating rapid, efficient transactions. It is the nervous system: transmitting energy, reducing latency, enabling real-time interaction across a distributed whole.
Beyond that, emerging tools like Fedimint and Cashu function like the capillaries—bringing vitality to the extremities, to those underserved by legacy systems. They empower the unbanked, the overlooked, the forgotten. Privacy and dignity in the palms of those the old system refused to see.
And then there is NOSTR—the decentralized protocol for communication and creation. It is the throat chakra, the vocal cords of the “freedom-tech” body. It reclaims speech from the algorithmic overlords, making expression sovereign once more. It is also the reproductive system, as it enables the propagation of novel ideas and protocols in fertile, uncensorable soil.
Each layer plays its part. Not in hierarchy, but in harmony. In holarchy. Bitcoin and other open source protocols grow not through exogenous command, but through endogenous coherence. Like cells in an organism. Like a song.
Imagine the cell as a piece of glass from a shattered holographic plate —by which its perspectival, moving image can be restructured from the single shard. DNA isn’t only a logical script of base pairs, but an evolving progressive song. Its lyrics imbued with wise reflections on relationships. The nucleus sings, the cell responds—not by command, but by memory. Life is not imposed; it is expressed. A reflection of a hidden pattern.
Bitcoin chants this. Each node, a living cell, holds the full timechain—Truth distributed, incorruptible. Remove one, and the whole remains. This isn’t redundancy. It’s a revelation on the power of protection in Truth.
Consensus is communion. Verification becomes a sacred rite—Truth made audible through math.
Not just the signal; the song. A web of self-expression woven from Truth.
No center, yet every point alive with the whole. Like Indra’s Net, each reflects all. This is more than currency and information exchange. It is memory; a self-remembering Mind, unfolding through consensus and code. A Mind reflecting the Truth of reality at the speed of thought.
Heuristics are mental shortcuts—efficient, imperfect, alive. Like cells, they must adapt or decay. To become unbiased is to have self-balancing heuristics which carry feedback loops within them: they listen to the environment, mutate when needed, and survive by resonance with reality. Mutation is not error, but evolution. Its rules are simple, but their expression is dynamic.
What persists is not rigidity, but pattern.
To think clearly is not necessarily to be certain, but to dissolve doubt by listening, adjusting, and evolving thought itself.
To understand Bitcoin is simply to listen—patiently, clearly, as one would to a familiar rhythm returning.
Permissionless Individuation
Bitcoin is a path. One that no one can walk for you.
Said differently, it is not a passive act. It cannot be spoon-fed. Like a spiritual path, it demands initiation, effort, and the willingness to question inherited beliefs.
Because Bitcoin is permissionless, no one can be forced to adopt it. One must choose to engage it—compelled by need, interest, or intuition. Each person who embarks undergoes their own version of the hero’s journey.
Carl Jung called this process Individuation—the reconciliation of fragmented psychic elements into a coherent, mature Self. Bitcoin mirrors this: it invites individuals to confront the unconscious assumptions of the fiat paradigm, and to re-integrate their relationship to time, value, and agency.
In Western traditions—alchemy, Christianity, Kabbalah—the individual is sacred, and salvation is personal. In Eastern systems—Daoism, Buddhism, the Vedas—the self is ultimately dissolved into the cosmic whole. Bitcoin, in a paradoxical way, echoes both: it empowers the individual, while aligning them with a holistic, transcendent order.
To truly see Bitcoin is to allow something false to die. A belief. A habit. A self-concept.
In that death—a space opens for deeper connection with the Divine itSelf.
In that dissolution, something luminous is reborn.
After the passing, Truth becomes resurrected.
Dispelling Paradox Through Resonance
There is a subtle paradox encoded into the hero’s journey: each starts in solidarity, yet the awakening affects the collective.
No one can be forced into understanding Bitcoin. Like a spiritual truth, it must be seen. And yet, once seen, it becomes nearly impossible to unsee—and easier for others to glimpse. The pattern catches.
This phenomenon mirrors the concept of morphic resonance, as proposed and empirically tested by biologist Rupert Sheldrake. Once a critical mass of individuals begins to embody a new behavior or awareness, it becomes easier—instinctive—for others to follow suit. Like the proverbial hundredth monkey who begins to wash the fruit in the sea water, and suddenly, monkeys across islands begin doing the same—without ever meeting.
When enough individuals embody a pattern, it ripples outward. Not through propaganda, but through field effect and wave propagation. It becomes accessible, instinctive, familiar—even across great distance.
Bitcoin spreads in this way. Not through centralized broadcast, but through subtle resonance. Each new node, each individual who integrates the protocol into their life, strengthens the signal for others. The protocol doesn’t shout; it hums, oscillates and vibrates——persistently, coherently, patiently.
One awakens. Another follows. The current builds. What was fringe becomes familiar. What was radical becomes obvious.
This is the sacred geometry of spiritual awakening. One awakens, another follows, and soon the fluidic current is strong enough to carry the rest. One becomes two, two become many, and eventually the many become One again. This tessellation reverberates through the human aura, not as ideology, but as perceivable pattern recognition.
Bitcoin’s most powerful marketing tool is truth. Its most compelling evangelist is reality. Its most unstoppable force is resonance.
Therefore, Bitcoin is not just financial infrastructure—it is psychic scaffolding. It is part of the subtle architecture through which new patterns of coherence ripple across the collective field.
The training wheels from which humanity learns to embody Peace and Prosperity.
Ego Deflation
The process of awakening is not linear, and its beginning is rarely gentle—it usually begins with disruption, with ego inflation and destruction.
To individuate is to shape a center; to recognize peripherals and create boundaries—to say, “I am.” But without integration, the ego tilts—collapsing into void or inflating into noise. Fiat reflects this pathology: scarcity hoarded, abundance simulated. Stagnation becomes disguised as safety, and inflation masquerades as growth.
In other words, to become whole, the ego must first rise—claiming agency, autonomy, and identity. However, when left unbalanced, it inflates, or implodes. It forgets its context. It begins to consume rather than connect. And so the process must reverse: what inflates must deflate.
In the fiat paradigm, this inflation is literal. More is printed, and ethos is diluted. Savings decay. Meaning erodes. Value is abstracted. The economy becomes bloated with inaudible noise. And like the psyche that refuses to confront its own shadow, it begins to collapse under the weight of its own illusions.
But under Bitcoin, time is honored. Value is preserved. Energy is not abstracted but grounded.
Bitcoin is inherently deflationary—in both economic and spiritual senses. With a fixed supply, it reveals what is truly scarce. Not money, not status—but the finite number of heartbeats we each carry.
To see Bitcoin is to feel that limit in one’s soul. To hold Bitcoin is to feel Time’s weight again. To sense the importance of Bitcoin is to feel the value of preserved, potential energy. It is to confront the reality that what matters cannot be printed, inflated, or faked. In this way, Bitcoin gently confronts the ego—not through punishment, but through clarity.
Deflation, rightly understood, is not collapse—it is refinement. It strips away illusion, bloat, and excess. It restores the clarity of essence.
Spiritually, this is liberation.
The Coin of Great Price
There is an ancient parable told by a wise man:
“The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking fine pearls, who, upon finding one of great price, sold all he had and bought it.”
Bitcoin is such a pearl.
But the ledger is more than a chest full of treasure. It is a key to the heart of things.
It is not just software—it is sacrament.
A symbol of what cannot be corrupted. A mirror of divine order etched into code. A map back to the sacred center.
It reflects what endures. It encodes what cannot be falsified. It remembers what we forgot: that Truth, when aligned with form, becomes Light once again.
Its design is not arbitrary. It speaks the language of life itself—
The elliptic orbits of the planets mirrored in its cryptography,
The logarithmic spiral of the nautilus shell discloses its adoption rate,
The interconnectivity of mycelium in soil reflect the network of nodes in cyberspace,
A webbed breadth of neurons across synaptic space fires with each new confirmed transaction.
It is geometry in devotion. Stillness in motion.
It is the Logos clothed in protocol.
What this key unlocks is beyond external riches. It is the eternal gold within us.
Clarity. Sovereignty. The unshakeable knowing that what is real cannot be taken. That what is sacred was never for sale.
Bitcoin is not the destination.
It is the Path.
And we—when we are willing to see it—are the Temple it leads back to.
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@ 3eba5ef4:751f23ae
2025-04-25 02:00:02Crypto Insights
1 BTC Quantum Cracking Challenge Called a Joke
Quantum computing research organization Project Eleven launched “Q-Day Challenge,” announcing a 1 BTC reward to the first team that can crack an ECC (elliptic curve cryptography) key using Shor’s algorithm on a quantum computer before April 5, 2026. Project Eleven considers this an extremely difficult task, stating that even recovering a few private keys would be big news.
However, Shinobi from Bitcoin Magazine called the bounty a joke, arguing it provides no serious incentive for several reasons:
- Even highly optimistic forecasts place the feasibility of such a quantum breakthrough at least 5–10 years away.
- At Bitcoin’s current price of $80,000, the bounty is insufficient compensation for such a demanding task.
- A quantum computer could be used for much more lucrative exploits—eavesdropping on internet connections regardless of TLS, breaking encrypted private communications, or compromising the certificate authority hierarchy of the DNS system.
New BIP Proposal to Redefine Bitcoin’s Smallest Unit
A new BIP draft proposes redefining the term “Bitcoin” to refer to the smallest indivisible unit in the system—currently “sat” (Satoshi). The goal is to make transaction amounts more readable and reduce user error. For example, someone with 851 sats would simply see “851 bitcoin” instead of “0.00000851 BTC.” Only the display and interpretation of amounts would change—the protocol remains untouched.
Previously, BIP 176 attempted to improve readability by introducing “bits” (100 sats), but it introduced a new denomination users had to learn and switch between.
Sparse Bitcoin Block Contains Only 7 Transactions
Bitcoin transaction activity has slumped to its lowest in over two years. Recently, top mining pool Foundry mined a sparse block—Block 890466—containing only 7 transactions and weighing 5,369 weight units.
The last time a block was sparser was in January 2023, when Binance Pool mined Block 769895, which included just 4 transactions and weighed 4,370 weight units.
Over 95% of Bitcoin Blocks Mined by Just 6 Pools
A recent investigation by b10c analyzed the hash rate shares of Bitcoin’s five largest mining pools to examine centralization trends in 2025. Part one looked at mining pool information in coinbase transactions. Part two considered the assumed potential proxy pools. Both parts revealed a high concentration of mining activity. The conclusion: over 95% of recent blocks were mined by just six pools.
Bitcoin Hashrate Projections Through 2027
Valentin Rousseau in collaboration with Blockspace published hashrate forecast, covering:
- Hashrate forecasts for 2025, 2026, and 2027
- How current Bitcoin mining economics may influence the hashrate trajectory
- Hashrate expansion schedules for public miners, plus probability of completion
- Sensitivity tables for hashrate growth under various Bitcoin prices
Using VLS for Non-Custodial Lightning Integration
VLS (Validating Lightning Signer) is a library and reference implementation for a signer module to secure Lightning nodes. It separates Lightning private keys and security rule validation from the node, moving them to a dedicated signing device, thereby reducing the attack surface and enhancing security.
Before VLS, it was nearly impossible to securely manage Lightning private keys in a hosted environment without taking custody of user funds. Blockstream’s Greenlight demonstrates in this case study how VLS enables developers to seamlessly integrate non-custodial Lightning payments into their apps, with minimal overhead, while ensuring users retain full control of their funds.
How CTV+CSFS improves BitVM bridges
Robin Linus elaborates on how input-committing covenants can be used to build more efficient and secure bridges in the BitVM ecosystem. By using CTV (CHECKTEMPLATEVERIFY) and CSFS (CHECKSIGFROMSTACK), the need for presigning committees is eliminated and transaction size is significantly reduced. This simplifies bridge architecture, enhances operational efficiency, and aims towards trust-minimized Bitcoin interoperability, though challenges such as potential censorship in the peg-in process remain.
RISC Zero Launches R0VM 2.0 with Performance and Security Gains
RISC Zero introduced R0VM 2.0, a major upgrade to its zkVM focused on performance and scalability. Enhancements include:
- Ethereum block validation and execution time cut from 35 minutes to 44 seconds;
- Validity proof costs reduced 5x, with batch sizes of 25 bringing per-block costs down from $1.355 to $0.2747; for larger batches, as low as $0.0012.
On the security side, formal verification is a key focus of R0VM 2.0. The Keccak circuit’s determinism has been fully verified, and 122 of the 123 components in the v2 RISC-V core circuit have also been confirmed deterministic.
Bitcoin Soft Forks Could Improve BitVMX
BitVMX is a platform for optimistic verification of Bitcoin smart contracts. In this article, Fairgate Labs outlines various potential Bitcoin upgrades and how they could benefit BitVMX. The article argues that new opcodes introduced via soft forks could improve efficiency, reduce on-chain costs, simplify scripting, and promote decentralization.
Ethereum Execution Layer to Replace EVM with RISC-V
Vitalik announced a long-term proposal to replace the EVM in Ethereum’s execution layer with RISC-V as the virtual machine for smart contracts. This aims to significantly improve execution efficiency and address key scalability bottlenecks, while also simplifying the execution layer.
Additionally, Cardano’s Charles Hoskinson mentioned that their project is also using RISC-V in BitVMX, stating: “RISC-V is the future.”
Top Reads on Blockchains and Beyond
Viewing a Clown World Through Bitcoin: Responsibility, Freedom, and Self-Reflection
The book Bitcoin: The Inverse of Clown World critiques a modern society filled with “clowns”—obsessed with false political narratives and meaningless social issues, such as excessive focus on “political correctness” and climate change. The author argues that the root of absurdity is a lack of personal responsibility, and that when money breaks down, everything becomes political theater.
Beyond exposing and criticizing these absurdities, the book promotes Bitcoin as a means to succeed by providing value. It emphasizes the importance of protecting one’s time and mind in an era of information overload and encourages readers to reflect on their lifestyles and contribute to making a better world—with Bitcoin as a foundation for that change.
The book review by Bitcoin Magazine.
GPU Proof-of-Work: Redefining Energy, Computation, and Money in the AI Age
The author envisions a future where GPU-based Proof-of-Work (GPU PoW) plays a pivotal role in an AI-driven world. GPU PoW can secure cryptocurrencies, train AI models, balance energy loads, and help build a global compute marketplace. Unlike ASICs, which are limited to mining, GPUs are versatile and can dynamically shift workloads for optimal economic return.
By coordinating local data centers, superclusters, and middleware, GPU PoW can improve energy and compute efficiency without sacrificing decentralization. This gives rise to a new utility-based economic system. PoW is no longer just about mining—it becomes infrastructure supporting the convergence of AI, energy systems, and monetary networks.
DahLIAS:First Cryptographic Protocol for Fully Cross-Input Signature Aggregation Compatible with Secp256k1
Blockstream’s research team has introduced DahLIAS, the first cryptographic protocol that enables full cross-input signature aggregation, while remaining compatible with Bitcoin's existing secp256k1 elliptic curve.
An interactive aggregate signature scheme allows n signers—each with their own (sk, pk) key pair and message m—to jointly produce a short signature that proves each m was signed under its corresponding pk. While such schemes can offer massive space and verification savings—two critical bottlenecks for blockchain like Bitcoin—aggregate signatures have received less attention compared to other multisig schemes like MuSig2 or FROST.
DahLIAS is the first such scheme built on discrete logarithms in pairing-free groups, with constant-size signatures that look just like standard Schnorr signatures. DahLIAS also addresses real-world use cases. In addition to its savings in space and time, it supports key tweaking—a common Bitcoin technique used in hierarchical deterministic wallets to derive keys and enhance on-chain privacy.
Read the full paper.
Thunderbolt: A Formally Verified Protocol for Off-Chain Bitcoin Transfers
Bitcoin Thunderbolt is a novel off-chain protocol for asynchronous, secure transfer of Bitcoin UTXOs between uncoordinated users. Unlike prior solutions such as payment channels or the Lightning Network, Bitcoin Thunderbolt requires no prior trust, direct interaction, or continuous connectivity between sender and receiver.
At its core, Bitcoin Thunderbolt employs a Byzantine fault-tolerant committee to manage threshold Schnorr signatures, enabling secure ownership delegation and on-chain finalization.
Read the full paper.
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@ 3eba5ef4:751f23ae
2025-04-25 01:56:19加密洞见
悬赏 1 BTC 的量子计算破解密钥挑战,被认为是个笑话
量子计算研究机构 Project Eleven 发布 Q-Day 挑战,宣布对能够于 2026 年 4 月 5 日之前、在量子计算机上使用 Shor 算法破解椭圆曲线加密(ECC)密钥的第一支团队提供 1 BTC 的奖励。Project Eleven 认为这将是一项极其艰巨的任务,即使获得几位私钥也将是一个大新闻。
而 Bitcoin Magazine 的长期贡献者 Shinobi 认为该笔赏金是一个笑话,并没有提供任何严肃的激励,原因有:
- 即使是对量子计算进展的高度乐观预测,也将实际实现这一目标的时间表定为 5-10 年;
- 按照目前单个比特币 80,000 美元的市价来看,奖励对于这项困难的工作其实并不多;
- 一台量子计算机可以完成比价值 80,000 美元更有价值的事,如窃听互联网连接、破解私人信息应用程序、破解整个 DNS 系统的证书颁发机构层次结构等。
重新定义比特币的基本单位的新 BIP
这份 BIP 草案建议重新定义「比特币」一词,以指代系统中最小的不可分割单位,即目前所说的「聪」(sat),目的是让交易看起来更清晰易读,可以有效降低了用户出错风险。如果某人有 851 个聪,钱包只显示 851 个比特币,而不是 0.00000851 BTC。变化的只有显示和解释金额的方式,而协议不变。
在这项提案之前,已经有提案(BIP 176)试图通过引入代表 100 聪的「比特」(bits)来使比特币数位的显示更加友好。虽然这减少了小数位的数量,但它引入了一种新的面额,用户必须学习并在其之间切换。
比特币交易活跃度低迷,稀疏区块仅包含 7 笔交易
比特币交易活动处于 2 年多来的最低水平,导致最大的矿池 Foundry 近期挖掘出一个稀疏的非空区块:Block 890466 仅包含 7 笔交易,重量为 5369 个单位。
上一个低于此的稀疏区块是 Binance Pool 在 2023 年 1 月挖出的区块 769895。内存池同样是空的,仅包含 4 笔交易,重量为 4370 个单位。
当前比特币挖矿高度集中:超过 95% 的区块仅由 6 个矿池开采
这篇由 b10c 发表的调查检查了当前五个最大的比特币矿池的哈希率份额,探讨 2025 年比特币挖矿中心化问题。第一部分着眼于 coinbase 交易中包含的矿池信息。第二部分考虑了假定的代理池。这两部分都显示了当前最大的矿池和挖矿集中化指数。调查结论:当下的比特币挖矿高度集中,有 6 个矿池开采了超过 95% 的区块。
预测到 2027 年的比特币哈希率
Valentin Rousseau 与 Blockspace 合作撰写了这份报告,涵盖: * 2025 年、2026 年和 2027 年的哈希率预测 * 当前的比特币挖矿经济学将如何影响哈希率的轨迹 * 公共矿工的哈希率扩展时间表,以及完成概率 * 不同比特币价格下哈希率增长的敏感度表
使用 VLS 支持非托管的闪电集成
VLS(Validating Lightning Signer)是签名者模块的库和参考实现,用于保护闪电节点,将 闪电私钥和安全规则验证从闪电节点分离到一个单独的签名设备中,通过减少攻击面来增强安全性。
在 VLS 之前,在不保管用户资金的情况下,在托管环境中安全地管理闪电私钥几乎是不可能的。Blockstream 的 Greenlight 在这份案例研究中介绍了如何使用 VLS,以非托管的方式使开发人员能够以最小的开销将闪电的功能添加到他们的应用程序中,同时确保用户保留对他们资金的完全控制权。Greenlight 构建在 Core Lightning 的模块化架构上,将由 Blockstream 管理的闪电节点操作与掌握在用户手中的闪电交易签名分开。
CTV+CSFS 如何改进 BitVM 网桥
Robin Linus 阐述了如何使用「输入提交契约」(input-committing covenants)在 BitVM 生态系统中构建更高效、更安全的桥,利用 CTV(CHECKTEMPLATEVERIFY)和 CSFS (CHECKSIGFROMSTACK) 消除对预签名委员会的需求并显着减少交易规模。这一进步简化了桥架构,提高了运营效率,并旨在实现信任最小化的比特币互作性,尽管仍然存在诸如挂钩过程中的潜在审查等挑战。
RISC Zero 推出 R0VM 2.0,性能提升的同时确保安全性
RISC Zero 推出了 R0VM 2.0,重大改进包括: * 以太坊区块的验证和执行时间,从 35 分钟缩短到仅 44 秒; * 到有效性证明的成本降低了 5 倍,批量大小为 25 的每个区块交易成本从 1.355 USD 下降到 0.2747 USD;较大批次交易成本低至 0.0012 USD;
在安全性方面,形式化验证是 R0VM 2.0 的核心。目前已经验证 Keccak 电路的完全确定性,以及在其 v2 电路中,核心 RISC-V 功能的 123 个组件中有 122 个是确定性的。
比特币软分叉可以改进 BitVMX
BitVMX 是支持乐观验证比特币智能合约的平台。Fairgate Labs 在本文中介绍了比特币可能经历的不同类型的升级,以及它们如何对 BitVMX 产生积极影响,认为了新的 opcodes 如果被软分叉到比特币中,可以提高 BitVMX 的效率、降低链上成本、简化脚本,并变得更加去中心化。
以太坊执行层将用 RISC-V 替代 EVM
Vitalik 发布了长期 L1 执行提案,宣布以太坊执行层将用 RISC-V 替换 EVM 作为编写智能合约的虚拟机,以大幅提高以太坊执行层的效率 ,解决主要的扩展瓶颈之一,同时增强执行层的简单性。
此外,Cardano 的 Charles Hoskinson 也表示 Cardano 在 BitVMX 中使用了 RISC-V;RISC-V 就是未来。
精彩无限,不止于链
从比特币看荒诞的世界:责任、自由与自我反思
《Bitcoin: The Inverse of Clown World》(比特币:荒诞世界的逆转)一书批判了充满「小丑」的当代世界——被虚假的政治议题和无意义的社会关注所占据——比如对「政治正确」和气候变化的过度关注。作者认为荒谬的核心是人们不负责任的行为,并认为当货币失效时,一切都变成政治和闹剧。
除了揭示和批评诸多荒诞现象,作者指出比特币倡导通过提供价值来获得成功,并强调了个人在这个信息过载的时代保护自己的时间和思想的重要性,进一步鼓励读者在比特币的支持下,重新审视自己的生活方式,并为改变世界贡献力量。
这里是 Bitcoin Magazine 对该书的书评。
GPU 工作量证明:重新定义 AI 驱动时代的能源、计算和金钱
作者设想了以 GPU 为基础的工作量证明(GPU PoW)在 AI 驱动的未来中的潜力。GPU PoW 不仅可以用于加密货币的安全保障,还能参与 AI 模型训练、能源负载调节以及全球算力市场的构建,相较于传统只能挖矿的 ASIC,GPU 更通用灵活,并能动态分配任务,在不同场景下实现收益最大化。通过本地数据中心、超级集群与中间件协同运作,GPU PoW 可以在不牺牲去中心化的前提下,提升能源与计算资源的使用效率,并创造以实用性为基础的新型经济体系。PoW 不再只是挖矿,而是成为支撑 AI、能源系统与货币市场协同发展的基础设施。
DahLIAS:首个用于完全交叉输入签名聚合的加密协议,允许重用比特币的曲线 secp256k1
Blockstream 研究团队推出 DahLIAS——第一个用于完全交叉输入签名聚合的加密协议,允许重用比特币的曲线 secp256k1。
一个交互式聚合签名(interactive aggregate signatures)方案允许 n 个签名者,每人拥有自己的秘密/公钥对(sk, pk)和消息 m,共同生成一个简短的签名,同时证明每个 m 在 pk 下已经被签名,其中 i ∈ {1, . . . , n}。尽管在空间和验证时间方面具有巨大的节省潜力,这两个因素是像比特币这样的区块链系统的主要瓶颈。但聚合签名相比于多方签名家族中的其他成员(例如 MuSig2 多重签名和 FROST 阈值签名)受到的关注较少。
而 DahLIAS 是首个直接在无配对组(pairing-free groups)中的离散对数上构建的、具有常数大小签名的聚合签名方案——与标准的 Schnorr 签名具有相同形态。DahLIAS 的签名协议由两轮组成,第一轮可以在没有消息的情况下预处理,且验证某个由 n 个签名者创建的签名,是由一个大小为 n + 1 的多重指数运算主导,这在渐近意义上比批量验证 n 个独立的 Schnorr 签名要快两倍。
DahLIAS 也考虑到了现实中的应用。除了前述的空间节省和验证速度提升外,DahLIAS 还提供了密钥调整功能,这是一种常用于比特币的技术——从有层级的确定性钱包中派生密钥,以节省空间并增强链上隐私。研究团队在随机预言模型下,基于(代数的)再一次离散对数假设,证明了包含密钥调整功能的 DahLIAS 在并发设置下的安全性。
查看完整论文。
Thunderbolt: 经过验证的链下比特币转账协议
该 Bitcoin Thunderbolt 链下协议用于在未协调的用户之间安全、异步地转移比特币 UTXO。与支付通道或闪电网络等现有解决方案不同,该协议无需预先信任、直接交互或持续连接发送方和接收方。其核心是通过拜占庭容错 committee 来管理阈值 Schnorr 签名,实现安全的所有权委托和链上最终确认。
查看完整论文。
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@ 3de5f798:31faf8b0
2025-04-25 01:46:45My everyday activity
This template is just for demo needs.
petrinet ;startDay () -> working ;stopDay working -> () ;startPause working -> paused ;endPause paused -> working ;goSmoke working -> smoking ;endSmoke smoking -> working ;startEating working -> eating ;stopEating eating -> working ;startCall working -> onCall ;endCall onCall -> working ;startMeeting working -> inMeetinga ;endMeeting inMeeting -> working ;logTask working -> working
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@ 3de5f798:31faf8b0
2025-04-25 01:46:32My everyday activity
This template is just for demo needs.
petrinet ;startDay () -> working ;stopDay working -> () ;startPause working -> paused ;endPause paused -> working ;goSmoke working -> smoking ;endSmoke smoking -> working ;startEating working -> eating ;stopEating eating -> working ;startCall working -> onCall ;endCall onCall -> working ;startMeeting working -> inMeetinga ;endMeeting inMeeting -> working ;logTask working -> working
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@ 2ed3596e:98b4cc78
2025-04-24 18:31:53Bitcoiners, your points just got a lot more epic! We’re thrilled to announce the launch of the Bitcoin Well Point Store, available now in Canada and the USA.
Now you can redeem your Bitcoin Well points for prizes that level up and celebrate your Bitcoin lifestyle.
What can you get in store?
Right now, you can exchange your points for:
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Simply Bitcoin hoodie: Rep your Bitcoin pride in style
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Exclusive Bitcoin Well Stampseed backup plate: Protect and manage your private keys securely
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Personalized LeatherMint wallet: Classy, sleek, and ready to hold your fiat (until you convert it to sats!)
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Tesla Cybertruck in Bitcoin orange: Wait…really? A Cybertruck? Who approved this?
More epic items will be available in the Bitcoin Well Point Store in the coming months. Stay tuned!
How to redeem your Bitcoin Well Points
Redeeming your points is easy:
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Log in and go the Bitcoin Well Points store within the Rewards Section
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Check your Bitcoin Well point balance
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Redeem Your Bitcoin Well points for the prize of your dreams
Once you’ve purchased an item from the Bitcoin Well Point Store, we’ll email you to figure out where you want us to ship your prize. Unless it's the Cybertruck, then you can come to our office and pick it up!
How can you earn more Bitcoin Well Points? ⚡
Here are all the ways you can earn Bitcoin Well points:
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Buy bitcoin/Sell bitcoin/pay bills - 3 Points per $10
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Recurring buy - 5 points per $10
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First transaction bonus - 500 points
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Refer a friend to Bitcoin Well - 500 points
The more you use Bitcoin Well, the more points you earn, rewarding you for investing in your freedom and self-sovereignty
Want sats, not stuff? No problem! 👇
You can keep earning sats by playing the Bitcoin (Wishing) Well! You can win up to 1,000,000 on your next coin toss. Now you have the exciting choice: do you play the Bitcoin (Wishing) Well or save up your Bitcoin Well points for a sweet prize?
What makes Bitcoin Well different
Bitcoin Well is on a mission to enable independence. We do this by making it easy to self custody bitcoin and embracing the latest bitcoin innovations. By custodying their own money, our customers are free to do as they wish without begging for permission. By creating a full ecosystem to buy, sell and use your bitcoin to connect with the modern financial world, you are able to have your cake and eat it too - or have your bitcoin in self custody and easily spend it too 🎂.
Create your Bitcoin Well account now →
Invest in Bitcoin Well
We are publicly traded (and love it when our customers become shareholders!) and hold ourselves to a high standard of enabling life on a Bitcoin standard. If you want to learn more about Bitcoin Well, please visit our website or reach out!
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@ 88cc134b:5ae99079
2025-04-24 17:38:04test
nostr:nevent1qvzqqqqqqypzpzxvzd935e04fm6g4nqa7dn9qc7nafzlqn4t3t6xgmjkr3dwnyreqqsr98r3ryhw0kdqv6s92c9tcxruc6g9hfjgunnl50gclyyjerv00csna38cs
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@ 76b0d68a:fdf859d0
2025-04-24 22:52:04Gemini look like they've just released a new video generating function. I just asked it to generate a video of a dog running through the snow in the Swiss Alps and this is what it came up with. Amazing.
Amazing that this is what is for all intents and purposes freely available to anybody. My mind is blown.
I know we saw all this with Sora last year, but the speed at which this kind of capability is being propagated is terrific.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/957519
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@ 76b0d68a:fdf859d0
2025-04-24 21:20:30Am reading his 1995 diary and he was so interested and up on technology I would be interested in his take on everything in AI, music and art going on today!
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/957396
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@ f1989a96:bcaaf2c1
2025-04-24 16:19:13Good morning, readers!
In Georgia, mere weeks after freezing the bank accounts of five NGOs supporting pro-democracy movements, the ruling Georgian Dream party passed a new law banning foreign organizations from providing grants to local groups without regime approval. The bill is part of a broader effort to silence dissent and weaken democracy through financial repression.\ \ In Latin America, opposition leader María Corina Machado seeks to rally citizens against Nicolás Maduro’s immensely repressive regime. With the economy and currency in shambles and dozens of military personnel abandoning Maduro, Machado sees an opportunity to challenge his grip on power.
In open source news, we spotlight the release of Bitcoin Core version 29.0, the latest update to the primary software that powers the Bitcoin network and helps millions of people send, receive, and verify Bitcoin transactions every day. This release improves the reliability and compatibility of Bitcoin’s main software implementation. We also cover the unique story of LuckyMiner, an unauthorized Bitaxe clone making waves in Asian markets as demand soars for small, low-cost, home mining equipment — evidence that people want to participate in the Bitcoin network themselves.
We close with the latest edition of the HRF x Pubkey Freedom Tech Series, in which Nicaraguan human rights defender Berta Valle joins HRF’s Arsh Molu to explore how authoritarian regimes weaponize financial systems to silence dissent and isolate opposition voices and how tools like Bitcoin can offer a way out. We also feature an interview with Salvadoran opposition leader Claudia Ortiz, who discusses the erosion of civil liberties under President Nayib Bukele and offers a nuanced take on Bitcoin in the country.
Now, let’s jump right in!
SUBSCRIBE HERE
GLOBAL NEWS
Georgia | Bans Foreign Donations for Nonprofits and NGOs
Mere weeks after freezing the bank accounts of five NGOs supporting pro-democracy demonstrators in recent unrest caused by elections, Georgia’s regime passed a new law that bans foreign organizations from providing “monetary or in-kind grants” to Georgian organizations and individuals without regime approval. Introduced by the increasingly repressive Georgian Dream party, the bill is part of a broader effort (including the controversial foreign agents law passed in 2024) designed to silence dissent and dismantle pro-democracy groups. Rights groups warn these laws will cripple civil society by cutting funding and imposing heavy fines for violators. Last week, parliament also read a bill that would grant officials the power to ban opposition parties entirely. With civil society financially repressed, Georgia is sliding further into tyranny, where free expression, political opposition, and grassroots organizations are under siege.
Venezuela | Opposition Mobilizes Against Maduro’s Financial Repression
Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado is intensifying efforts against Nicolás Maduro’s brutal regime by targeting what she believes are his two greatest vulnerabilities: a collapsing economy and fractures in his repressive apparatus. As the Venezuelan bolivar unravels (reaching a record low in March) and inflation spirals out of control (expected to reach 220% before the end of the year), Maduro’s regime doubles down. It imposes currency controls, expropriates private property, and exerts complete state control over banks. Meanwhile, signs of discontent are growing inside the military, with dozens of personnel reportedly deserting. “I think we have a huge opportunity in front of us, and I see that much closer today than I did a month ago,” Machado said. To rebuild Venezuela’s future, Machado sees financial freedom as essential and has publicly embraced Bitcoin as a tool to resist the regime’s weaponization of money.
India | UPI Outage Disrupts Payments Nationwide
Digital transactions across India were disrupted mid-April as the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) experienced its third major outage in the last month. UPI is a government-run system that enables digital payments and underpins India’s push towards a cashless, centralized economy. Fintechs, banks, and institutions plug into UPI as a backbone of their digital infrastructure. Recently, India started integrating its central bank digital currency (CBDC), the digital rupee, into UPI, leveraging its existing network effect to expand the reach of state-issued digital money. When a single outage can freeze an entire nation’s ability to transact, it reveals the fragility of centralized infrastructure. By contrast, decentralized money like Bitcoin operates independently of state-run systems and with consistent uptime, giving users the freedom to transact and save permissionlessly.
China | Bitcoin for Me, Not for Thee
China is debating new regulations for handling its growing trove of Bitcoin and other digital assets seized during criminal investigations. While the regime debates how to manage its seized digital assets, the trading of Bitcoin and other digital assets remains banned for Chinese citizens on the mainland. Reports indicate that local governments have quietly sold confiscated Bitcoin and other digital assets through private companies to bolster their dwindling budgets. If true, this exposes the hypocrisy of a regime banning digital assets for its people while exploiting them as a strategic revenue source for the state. This contradiction accentuates the ways authoritarian regimes manipulate financial rules for their own benefit while punishing the public for using the same strategies.
Serbia | Vučić Targets Civil Society as Economy Sinks
As Serbia’s economy stalls and the cost of living remains stubbornly high, President Aleksandar Vučić is escalating his crackdown on civil society to deflect blame and tighten control. After a train station canopy collapse in Novi Sad killed 16 people last November, protests erupted. Serbians, led by students, flooded the streets to protest government corruption, declining civil liberties, and a worsening economy. The protests have since spread across 400 cities, reflecting nationwide discontent. In response, Vučić is now targeting civil society organizations under the pretext of financial misconduct. Law enforcement raided four NGOs that support Serbians’ human rights, the rule of law, and democratic elections.
Russia | Jails Four Journalists for Working With Navalny
A Russian court sentenced four independent Russian journalists to five and a half years in prison for working with the Anti-Corruption Foundation (ACF) — a pro-democracy organization founded by the late opposition leader Alexei Navalny. The journalists — Antonina Favorskaya, Konstantin Gabov, Sergei Karelin, and Artyom Kriger — were convicted in a closed-door trial for associating with an organization the Kremlin deems an “extremist.” The Committee to Protect Journalists condemned the verdict as a “blatant testimony to Russian authorities’ profound contempt for press freedom.” Since it launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the Kremlin has increasingly criminalized dissent and financially repressed opposition, nonprofits, and ordinary citizens.
BITCOIN AND FREEDOM TECH NEWS
Flash | Introduces Flash Lightning Addresses, New UI, and Encrypted Messaging
Flash, a Bitcoin Lightning wallet and HRF grantee bringing freedom money to the Caribbean, released its version 0.4.0 beta. This release includes an updated user interface, dedicated Flash Lightning addresses (user @ flashapp.me), and encrypted messaging. The redesigned app is more user-friendly and better suited for users new to Bitcoin. Flash users now receive a verified Lightning address, making it easier to send and receive Bitcoin. The update also adds encrypted nostr messaging, enabling secure communication between users. As authoritarian regimes in the region, like Cuba, tighten control over money, Flash offers a practical and private solution for Bitcoin access.
DahLIAS | New Protocol to Lower the Cost of Private Bitcoin Transactions
Bitcoin developers recently announced DahLIAS, the first protocol designed to enable full cross-input signature aggregation (CISA). CISA is a proposed Bitcoin update that could make private Bitcoin transactions much cheaper. Right now, collaborative transactions are more expensive than typical transactions because each input in a transaction needs its own signature. CISA would allow those signatures to be combined, saving space and reducing fees. But this change would require a soft fork, a safe, backward-compatible software update to Bitcoin’s code. If adopted, CISA could remove the need for users to justify why they want privacy, as the answer would be, to save money. This is especially important for dissidents living under surveillant regimes. DahLIAS could be a breakthrough that helps make privacy more practical for everyone using Bitcoin.
Bitcoin Core | Version 29.0 Now Available for Node Runners
Bitcoin Core is the main software implementation that powers the Bitcoin network and helps millions of people send, receive, and verify transactions every day. The latest update, Bitcoin Core v29.0, introduces changes to improve network stability and performance. The release helps keep the network stable even when not everyone updates simultaneously. Further, it reduces the chances that nodes (computers that run the Bitcoin software) accidentally restart — an issue that can interrupt network participation. It also adds support for full Replace-by-Fee (RBF), allowing users to increase the fee on stuck transactions in times of high network demand. Enhancing Bitcoin’s reliability, usability, and security ensures that individuals in oppressive regimes or unstable financial systems can access a permissionless and censorship-resistant monetary network. Learn more about the update here.
Nstart | Releases Multilingual Support
Nstart, a new tool that simplifies onboarding to nostr — a decentralized and censorship-resistant social network protocol — released multilingual support. It added Spanish, Italian, French, Dutch, and Mandarin as languages. This update broadens access by making the onboarding experience available to a wider audience — especially those living under dictatorships across Africa, Latin America, and Asia, where communication and press freedom are heavily restricted. Users can even contribute translations themselves. Overall, multilingual support makes Nstart a more powerful tool for activists and organizations operating under authoritarian environments, offering guided, straightforward access to uncensorable communications.
Bitcoin Chiang Mai | Release Bitcoin Education Podcast
Bitcoin Chiang Mai, a grassroots Bitcoin community in Thailand, launched an educational podcast to teach Bitcoin in Thai. In a country where financial repression is on the rise and the regime is experimenting with a programmable central bank digital currency (CBDC), this podcast offers an educational lifeline. By making Bitcoin knowledge and tools more accessible, the show empowers Thais to explore alternatives to state-controlled financial systems. It’s a grassroots effort to preserve financial freedom and encourage open dialogue in an increasingly controlled economic environment. Check it out here.
LuckyMiner | Undisclosed Bitaxe Clone Gaining Popularity in Asia
LuckyMiner, a Bitcoin mining startup out of Shenzhen, China is shaking up Asia’s Bitcoin hardware scene with a rogue twist. What began as a hobby project in 2023 has since exploded into a full-scale operation, manufacturing and selling thousands of undisclosed Bitaxe clones (which are small, affordable bitcoin miners based on the Bitaxe design). While Bitaxe is open-source, it’s licensed under CERN-OHL-S-2.0, requiring any modifications to be made public. LuckyMiner ignored that rule and the founder has openly admitted to breaking the license. Despite that, LuckyMiner is succeeding anyway, fueled by growing demand for affordable home mining equipment. While controversial, the rise of low-cost miners signals grassroots interest in Bitcoin, especially at a time when Asia grapples with growing authoritarianism and financial repression.
RECOMMENDED CONTENT
HRF x Pubkey — Bitcoin as a Tool to Fight Financial Repression in Autocracies with Berta Valle
In the latest HRF x Pubkey Freedom Tech series, Nicaraguan human rights defender and journalist Berta Valle joins HRF’s Arsh Molu to discuss how Bitcoin empowers individuals to resist the financial repression of authoritarian regimes. From helping families receive remittances when bank accounts are frozen to enabling independent media and activists to fund their work without regime interference, Bitcoin is quietly reshaping what resistance can look like under tyranny. Watch the full fireside chat here.
Claudia Ortiz: A Voice of Opposition in Bukele’s El Salvador
In this interview, analyst and journalist Marius Farashi Tasooji speaks to Salvadoran opposition leader Claudia Ortiz about President Bukele’s consolidation of power, the erosion of civil liberties, and the future of Bitcoin in the country. While Ortiz acknowledges Bitcoin’s potential as a tool for freedom, she critiques the current administration’s opaque and heavy-handed implementation of it. Ortiz explains her opposition to the Bitcoin Law, citing concerns about transparency and accountability, and outlines what she would do differently if elected president. Watch the full conversation here.
If this article was forwarded to you and you enjoyed reading it, please consider subscribing to the Financial Freedom Report here.
Support the newsletter by donating bitcoin to HRF’s Financial Freedom program via BTCPay.\ Want to contribute to the newsletter? Submit tips, stories, news, and ideas by emailing us at ffreport @ hrf.org
The Bitcoin Development Fund (BDF) is accepting grant proposals on an ongoing basis. The Bitcoin Development Fund is looking to support Bitcoin developers, community builders, and educators. Submit proposals here.
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@ 0e67f053:cb1d4b93
2025-04-24 19:42:00How to Be an Anti-Fascist: A Gentle Rebuttal to Billionaire Strongmen and Their Twitter Cosplays
By Carl Tuckerson
Good evening, radiant souls.
Tonight, I want to talk about something serious—but not in a shouty, vein-popping way. In a warm, clear-eyed, candle-lit kind of way. Let’s talk about fascism. And more importantly, how to stand firmly, nonviolently, and stylishly against it.
First, a definition. Fascism isn’t just people yelling on the internet or wearing weird hats. It’s a political disease—authoritarianism drenched in nationalism, allergic to diversity, and obsessed with power. It’s rigid. It’s cruel. It thrives on fear.
History, of course, gave us the ultimate case study: Adolf Hitler. A man who turned wounded ego and racist paranoia into a genocidal regime. Let’s be uncomfortably clear: fascism starts with rhetoric and ends in blood. It wears suits at first. Then it builds camps.
Which brings us to the now. To a peculiar blend of self-pitying billionaires and spray-tanned demagogues playing dictator on easy mode.
Let’s start with Elon Musk.
Here’s a man who once inspired us with rockets and electric cars—and now spends his time posting “anti-woke” memes like a Reddit troll who just discovered Ayn Rand. Elon claims to love “free speech,” unless that speech critiques him or his companies, in which case he’ll fire you, shadowban you, or awkwardly reply with a meme of Pepe the Frog.
You can’t be a free speech absolutist and also an insecure billionaire who throws tantrums when journalists ask questions. That’s not libertarianism. That’s narcissism with a Wi-Fi signal.
Then there’s Donald Trump.
The man who said he’d “drain the swamp” and instead held cocktail parties in it. Who said he loved “the people” but spent four years helping billionaires and banning brown kids. Who said he was “tough on crime” while pardoning white-collar felons and cozying up to actual Nazis at campaign rallies.
You don’t get to call yourself a patriot while trying to overthrow democracy. You don’t get to wrap yourself in the flag while selling fascist cosplay to a base too traumatized to see the grift. And no, calling your opponents “fascists” doesn’t make you less of one. That’s what projection looks like, not principle.
So… what does it actually mean to be anti-fascist?
It’s not just wearing black or smashing Starbucks windows (though I get the temptation). It means:
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Refusing to dehumanize. Even when it’s easier.
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Defending institutions of democracy while pushing them to do better.
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Confronting power with truth—especially when that power has a blue checkmark and a bunker.
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Building diverse communities where all people—not just rich white dudes with podcasts—have a voice.
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Educating yourself. Read. Listen. Learn from those who’ve lived through real authoritarianism. Hint: it wasn’t your uncle who got suspended from X.
And look, I get it. It's easy to feel hopeless. To doomscroll and despair. But the antidote to fascism isn’t more fear. It’s radical hope. It’s showing up. It's organizing mutual aid. It's hugging someone at a protest. It's running a book club. It’s standing in solidarity instead of standing by.
So if you’re wondering how to be anti-fascist?
Start by being anti-ego. Anti-greed. Anti-cruelty. Anti-lie. And yes, sometimes that means being anti-Musk. Anti-Trump. Anti-anyone who thinks oppression is a branding opportunity.
We’ve tried letting billionaires be our heroes. It didn’t work. Maybe it’s time to try being each other’s heroes instead.
Stay soft. Stay loud. Stay antifascist.
We’ll see you tomorrow.
— Radical Kindness Carl
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/957123
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@ 0e67f053:cb1d4b93
2025-04-24 16:44:31By Carl Tuckerson, Who Weeps During City Council Meetings
Democracy is not a system.
It is a living, breathing organism, pulsating with the ancestral heartbeat of every barefoot revolutionary who ever composted oppression into community gardens of change.
It is consent manifested, a tapestry woven by the trembling hands of the marginalized and the mildly inconvenienced alike. It is radical accountability on a biodegradable ballot.
Democracy is the collective inhale of a million voices saying, “Yes, I matter,” and the collective exhale of power releasing its grip—not because it was forced to, but because it finally understood its own trauma.
It is fluid, non-binary, and consensually participatory. A polyamorous relationship between people, policy, and purpose. No labels. Just vibes.
It is the sacred act of showing up—in person, in spirit, in ethically sourced linen—because you believe that your voice, no matter how tremulously intersectional, is a note in the symphony of collective liberation.
Democracy is not red or blue. It’s not even purple. It’s the entire spectrum of human expression, from burnt sienna to sunset glitter sparkle.
It is brunch and ballots. It is protest and poetry. It is tweeting while crying while registering your roommate to vote.
It is government of the people, by the people, and for the people, but especially for the people who’ve been gaslit by history.
And when democracy falters, we don’t abolish it—we give it a weighted blanket, whisper affirmations into its ear, and tell it to take the day off, because healing is not linear.
So what is democracy?
It’s not a noun.It’s not even a verb.It’s a sacred energy exchange—and if you listen closely, you can hear it humming in the compost bin behind your community center.
Namaste. Vote. And remember: ballots are spells cast in ink. Use yours wisely.
— Carl, “Decolonize the Vote” Tuckerson
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/956879
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@ 40b9c85f:5e61b451
2025-04-24 15:27:02Introduction
Data Vending Machines (DVMs) have emerged as a crucial component of the Nostr ecosystem, offering specialized computational services to clients across the network. As defined in NIP-90, DVMs operate on an apparently simple principle: "data in, data out." They provide a marketplace for data processing where users request specific jobs (like text translation, content recommendation, or AI text generation)
While DVMs have gained significant traction, the current specification faces challenges that hinder widespread adoption and consistent implementation. This article explores some ideas on how we can apply the reflection pattern, a well established approach in RPC systems, to address these challenges and improve the DVM ecosystem's clarity, consistency, and usability.
The Current State of DVMs: Challenges and Limitations
The NIP-90 specification provides a broad framework for DVMs, but this flexibility has led to several issues:
1. Inconsistent Implementation
As noted by hzrd149 in "DVMs were a mistake" every DVM implementation tends to expect inputs in slightly different formats, even while ostensibly following the same specification. For example, a translation request DVM might expect an event ID in one particular format, while an LLM service could expect a "prompt" input that's not even specified in NIP-90.
2. Fragmented Specifications
The DVM specification reserves a range of event kinds (5000-6000), each meant for different types of computational jobs. While creating sub-specifications for each job type is being explored as a possible solution for clarity, in a decentralized and permissionless landscape like Nostr, relying solely on specification enforcement won't be effective for creating a healthy ecosystem. A more comprehensible approach is needed that works with, rather than against, the open nature of the protocol.
3. Ambiguous API Interfaces
There's no standardized way for clients to discover what parameters a specific DVM accepts, which are required versus optional, or what output format to expect. This creates uncertainty and forces developers to rely on documentation outside the protocol itself, if such documentation exists at all.
The Reflection Pattern: A Solution from RPC Systems
The reflection pattern in RPC systems offers a compelling solution to many of these challenges. At its core, reflection enables servers to provide metadata about their available services, methods, and data types at runtime, allowing clients to dynamically discover and interact with the server's API.
In established RPC frameworks like gRPC, reflection serves as a self-describing mechanism where services expose their interface definitions and requirements. In MCP reflection is used to expose the capabilities of the server, such as tools, resources, and prompts. Clients can learn about available capabilities without prior knowledge, and systems can adapt to changes without requiring rebuilds or redeployments. This standardized introspection creates a unified way to query service metadata, making tools like
grpcurl
possible without requiring precompiled stubs.How Reflection Could Transform the DVM Specification
By incorporating reflection principles into the DVM specification, we could create a more coherent and predictable ecosystem. DVMs already implement some sort of reflection through the use of 'nip90params', which allow clients to discover some parameters, constraints, and features of the DVMs, such as whether they accept encryption, nutzaps, etc. However, this approach could be expanded to provide more comprehensive self-description capabilities.
1. Defined Lifecycle Phases
Similar to the Model Context Protocol (MCP), DVMs could benefit from a clear lifecycle consisting of an initialization phase and an operation phase. During initialization, the client and DVM would negotiate capabilities and exchange metadata, with the DVM providing a JSON schema containing its input requirements. nip-89 (or other) announcements can be used to bootstrap the discovery and negotiation process by providing the input schema directly. Then, during the operation phase, the client would interact with the DVM according to the negotiated schema and parameters.
2. Schema-Based Interactions
Rather than relying on rigid specifications for each job type, DVMs could self-advertise their schemas. This would allow clients to understand which parameters are required versus optional, what type validation should occur for inputs, what output formats to expect, and what payment flows are supported. By internalizing the input schema of the DVMs they wish to consume, clients gain clarity on how to interact effectively.
3. Capability Negotiation
Capability negotiation would enable DVMs to advertise their supported features, such as encryption methods, payment options, or specialized functionalities. This would allow clients to adjust their interaction approach based on the specific capabilities of each DVM they encounter.
Implementation Approach
While building DVMCP, I realized that the RPC reflection pattern used there could be beneficial for constructing DVMs in general. Since DVMs already follow an RPC style for their operation, and reflection is a natural extension of this approach, it could significantly enhance and clarify the DVM specification.
A reflection enhanced DVM protocol could work as follows: 1. Discovery: Clients discover DVMs through existing NIP-89 application handlers, input schemas could also be advertised in nip-89 announcements, making the second step unnecessary. 2. Schema Request: Clients request the DVM's input schema for the specific job type they're interested in 3. Validation: Clients validate their request against the provided schema before submission 4. Operation: The job proceeds through the standard NIP-90 flow, but with clearer expectations on both sides
Parallels with Other Protocols
This approach has proven successful in other contexts. The Model Context Protocol (MCP) implements a similar lifecycle with capability negotiation during initialization, allowing any client to communicate with any server as long as they adhere to the base protocol. MCP and DVM protocols share fundamental similarities, both aim to expose and consume computational resources through a JSON-RPC-like interface, albeit with specific differences.
gRPC's reflection service similarly allows clients to discover service definitions at runtime, enabling generic tools to work with any gRPC service without prior knowledge. In the REST API world, OpenAPI/Swagger specifications document interfaces in a way that makes them discoverable and testable.
DVMs would benefit from adopting these patterns while maintaining the decentralized, permissionless nature of Nostr.
Conclusion
I am not attempting to rewrite the DVM specification; rather, explore some ideas that could help the ecosystem improve incrementally, reducing fragmentation and making the ecosystem more comprehensible. By allowing DVMs to self describe their interfaces, we could maintain the flexibility that makes Nostr powerful while providing the structure needed for interoperability.
For developers building DVM clients or libraries, this approach would simplify consumption by providing clear expectations about inputs and outputs. For DVM operators, it would establish a standard way to communicate their service's requirements without relying on external documentation.
I am currently developing DVMCP following these patterns. Of course, DVMs and MCP servers have different details; MCP includes capabilities such as tools, resources, and prompts on the server side, as well as 'roots' and 'sampling' on the client side, creating a bidirectional way to consume capabilities. In contrast, DVMs typically function similarly to MCP tools, where you call a DVM with an input and receive an output, with each job type representing a different categorization of the work performed.
Without further ado, I hope this article has provided some insight into the potential benefits of applying the reflection pattern to the DVM specification.
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@ 8cda1daa:e9e5bdd8
2025-04-24 10:20:13Bitcoin cracked the code for money. Now it's time to rebuild everything else.
What about identity, trust, and collaboration? What about the systems that define how we live, create, and connect?
Bitcoin gave us a blueprint to separate money from the state. But the state still owns most of your digital life. It's time for something more radical.
Welcome to the Atomic Economy - not just a technology stack, but a civil engineering project for the digital age. A complete re-architecture of society, from the individual outward.
The Problem: We Live in Digital Captivity
Let's be blunt: the modern internet is hostile to human freedom.
You don't own your identity. You don't control your data. You don't decide what you see.
Big Tech and state institutions dominate your digital life with one goal: control.
- Poisoned algorithms dictate your emotions and behavior.
- Censorship hides truth and silences dissent.
- Walled gardens lock you into systems you can't escape.
- Extractive platforms monetize your attention and creativity - without your consent.
This isn't innovation. It's digital colonization.
A Vision for Sovereign Society
The Atomic Economy proposes a new design for society - one where: - Individuals own their identity, data, and value. - Trust is contextual, not imposed. - Communities are voluntary, not manufactured by feeds. - Markets are free, not fenced. - Collaboration is peer-to-peer, not platform-mediated.
It's not a political revolution. It's a technological and social reset based on first principles: self-sovereignty, mutualism, and credible exit.
So, What Is the Atomic Economy?
The Atomic Economy is a decentralized digital society where people - not platforms - coordinate identity, trust, and value.
It's built on open protocols, real software, and the ethos of Bitcoin. It's not about abstraction - it's about architecture.
Core Principles: - Self-Sovereignty: Your keys. Your data. Your rules. - Mutual Consensus: Interactions are voluntary and trust-based. - Credible Exit: Leave any system, with your data and identity intact. - Programmable Trust: Trust is explicit, contextual, and revocable. - Circular Economies: Value flows directly between individuals - no middlemen.
The Tech Stack Behind the Vision
The Atomic Economy isn't just theory. It's a layered system with real tools:
1. Payments & Settlement
- Bitcoin & Lightning: The foundation - sound, censorship-resistant money.
- Paykit: Modular payments and settlement flows.
- Atomicity: A peer-to-peer mutual credit protocol for programmable trust and IOUs.
2. Discovery & Matching
- Pubky Core: Decentralized identity and discovery using PKARR and the DHT.
- Pubky Nexus: Indexing for a user-controlled internet.
- Semantic Social Graph: Discovery through social tagging - you are the algorithm.
3. Application Layer
- Bitkit: A self-custodial Bitcoin and Lightning wallet.
- Pubky App: Tag, publish, trade, and interact - on your terms.
- Blocktank: Liquidity services for Lightning and circular economies.
- Pubky Ring: Key-based access control and identity syncing.
These tools don't just integrate - they stack. You build trust, exchange value, and form communities with no centralized gatekeepers.
The Human Impact
This isn't about software. It's about freedom.
- Empowered Individuals: Control your own narrative, value, and destiny.
- Voluntary Communities: Build trust on shared values, not enforced norms.
- Economic Freedom: Trade without permission, borders, or middlemen.
- Creative Renaissance: Innovation and art flourish in open, censorship-resistant systems.
The Atomic Economy doesn't just fix the web. It frees the web.
Why Bitcoiners Should Care
If you believe in Bitcoin, you already believe in the Atomic Economy - you just haven't seen the full map yet.
- It extends Bitcoin's principles beyond money: into identity, trust, coordination.
- It defends freedom where Bitcoin leaves off: in content, community, and commerce.
- It offers a credible exit from every centralized system you still rely on.
- It's how we win - not just economically, but culturally and socially.
This isn't "web3." This isn't another layer of grift. It's the Bitcoin future - fully realized.
Join the Atomic Revolution
- If you're a builder: fork the code, remix the ideas, expand the protocols.
- If you're a user: adopt Bitkit, use Pubky, exit the digital plantation.
- If you're an advocate: share the vision. Help people imagine a free society again.
Bitcoin promised a revolution. The Atomic Economy delivers it.
Let's reclaim society, one key at a time.
Learn more and build with us at Synonym.to.
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@ 57c631a3:07529a8e
2025-04-24 14:28:40Painting by Early Fern, shared by Marine Eyes
It is difficult to get the news from poems yet men die miserably every day for lack of what is found there.—William Carlos Williams
April, the month Eliot famously deemed the cruelest, is kindest to poetry. It’s when we nationally awaken to poetry’s efforts to capture the human experience in all its messy contradictions, leaning into uncertainty and wonder and bringing readers along for the ride.
Williams’s adage pairs beautifully with Ezra Pound’s assertion that “Poetry is news that stays news.” Poetry* gives readers the most immediate and urgent hotline to feeling. Big emotions turn us instinctively, like human sunflowers, toward poems, which are singularly compact vehicles for thinking and feeling. They have a knack for distilling our existential questions and putting all that wondering to music—after all, the term lyric poetry comes from the lyre,* which accompanied the recitation of poetry in antiquity.
On Substack, poets shed the constraints of traditional publishing timelines, sharing works in progress and experimenting in real time. What arises isn’t just a collection of newsletters but a living anthology of established voices and emerging talents in conversation with one another and their readers. If you’re still not convinced that poetry is for you (it is!), I created a primer of Poems for Those Who Don’t “Get” Poetry. But beyond that gateway, Substack presents countless paths to discover the poems that will speak directly to you—from translation projects that breathe new life into ancient verse to craft discussions that demystify the process. Allow me to introduce you to a few of my favorites.
Poetry in progress
Quiddity: a word I love. It means “the inherent nature or essence of someone or something.” The you-ness of you. That is what the best poets translate through their writing—formal or free verse, ruminative or praising, expansive or brief. It’s the way one listens to the singular voice channeled through them** and delivers that voice alive on the page.
This is the foundation for the widest category of poetry on Substack. No two posts are alike: you might get the intimacy of seeing work that could later make its way into books, hearing poets muse about their writing lives, or watching notes and fragments coalesce into longer lyric explorations.
is one of the best-known poets on Substack, offering devoted readers a mix of never-before-seen work and poems from past collections. And his commitment to Substack’s potential as a propagator of new writing is especially inspiring to emerging writers.
Being witness to commitment and experimentation, that magical balance between discipline and freedom to explore, is riveting. I so admire , translator and former Random House editor ’s long-standing project to chronicle daily life:
Text within this block will maintain its original spacing when published4.11.25
what I so desired I can’t have
thank you blessed stars
Andrea Gibson’s gorgeously smart features videos of the poet reciting their work and contemplating illness, resilience, and the role that poetry plays in capturing duress, heartbreak, and hope. Here they are reading their poem “What Love Is”:
I was thrilled to see former U.S. Poet Laureate Tracy K. Smith join Substack recently. She’s already sharing poems, works in progress, and essays. Hear her reading a new poem, “I Don’t Believe in Doom,” here:
Then there’s , an ambitious translation project by , a writer dedicated to bringing these ancient poems from the Tang Dynasty (618-907) to a contemporary audience. Hyun Woo translates one poem from the collection every week. Here’s one of my favorites, number 55:
The Farewell to Those Who Will Stay at a Tavern of JinlingThe wind blows the willow flowers, filling the inn with fragrance;The ladies of Wu press the liquor, calling to the guests to try.The young men of Jinling come and see each other off;Those who will go, those who will not, each empty his goblet.I invite you to ask the water flowing east, to test it:Which is short and which is long, the thoughts of farewell or itself?
Curators and craft
The poet-as-curator offers us an assortment of poems organized by their own idiosyncratic logic. It’s like receiving the perfect mixtape: songs you’ve known and loved for years, and others you’re grateful to discover for the first time. Chances are good that within any given roundup, at least one poem will speak to you, introducing you to a new voice.
’s is one of my go-tos. He has a phenomenal reader’s eye for juxtapositions that span ages, styles, and modes, creating unexpected—and delightful—tensions and correspondences. His thematic roundups extend far beyond expected subjects like love and death to more nuanced territories like therapy (“This is progress”) and mood (“Puff out the hot-air balloon now”). Through Sean, I was reminded to revisit one of my favorite Audre Lorde poems:
Shared in “This is progress” by Sean Singer
In my own newsletter, , I do something similar: curating Poems for Your Weekend around themes that serve as a prescription for your mind or soul, while exploring how neuroscience and mindset can help us live more sustainable and enriching artistic lives. Through it all, I write about the role of wonder in poetry, the subject of my PhD.
For subtle close readings of poems through the lens of life rather than the ivory tower, I turn to ’s , with its deeply thoughtful essays on the poems he selects each week. His recent post on the poems of Linda Pastan includes this gorgeous poem from Insomnia:
Imaginary ConversationText within this block will maintain its original spacing when publishedYou tell me to live each day as if it were my last. This is in the kitchen where before coffee I complain of the day ahead—that obstacle race of minutes and hours, grocery stores and doctors.
But why the last? I ask. Why not live each day as if it were the first— all raw astonishment, Eve rubbing her eyes awake that first morning, the sun coming up like an ingénue in the east?
You grind the coffee with the small roar of a mind trying to clear itself. I set the table, glance out the window where dew has baptized every living surface.
I love Devin’s remarks: “why the last is the kind of question I adore, a question that does not assume it knows what we are supposedly supposed to know, a question that mirthfully pushes back against the world, and wonders aloud about astonishment in the face of certainty.”
For those interested in craft, literary powerhouse recently joined Substack and is already offering excellent writing exercises, as helpful for readers hoping to understand poetry as for poets creating their own. His Exercise 036: Begin with the End introduced even this poetry veteran to a new term: anadiplosis! is a resource-rich space, featuring interviews, classes, craft essays, and more. A large group of poets and readers has gathered to take advantage, creating a vibrant community. And a special shoutout in this section to , a poet whose candid essays on navigating both the publishing and dating world as a woman are their own kind of education on living more bravely and authentically.
Final thoughts
Whether encountered in an anthology or a newsletter, poems remind us of what Williams knew: that vital truths exist within their lines that we can find nowhere else. And there’s a special joy in reading them on Substack, where poets find renewed pleasure in publishing on their own terms, and where readers can witness the process and join the discussion. The digital format extends poetry’s reach, bringing these voices to new audiences who might not normally encounter them. Here, poets and readers are participating in poetry’s oldest tradition: the passing of essential truths from one human heart to another. I hope you’ll join us. https://connect-test.layer3.press/articles/4e5d2cee-8bd4-4fb0-9331-48bbeded3a47
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@ 5188521b:008eb518
2025-04-24 07:34:50We are losing our freedom.
Don't believe me? Data published by the Cato Institute suggests that 74% of Americans are concerned they could lose freedoms.
But what do we really mean by 'freedom'?
The Cambridge Dictionary defines ‘freedom’ as follows: the condition or right of being able or allowed to do, say, think, etc. whatever you want to, without being controlled or limited.
Despite this clear definition, freedom means different things to different people: it might also refer to freedom of movement, private property rights, free markets, and freedom from violence.
Freedom fiction (also known as Libertarian fiction) denotes fictional stories intrinsically linked to these ideas or, more likely, the sometimes vain pursuit of this idea.
If dystopian fiction is overly bleak, perfectly captured by the image of a boot on the reader's neck, libertarian stories should offer just a glimmer of hope.
What is freedom fiction?
If dystopia, sci-fi, fantasy, and horror are genres, i.e., styles of fiction that must encompass certain tropes, freedom fiction could more generally be considered a category that explores freedom as a theme, without necessarily being part of a specific genre.
Freedom fiction primarily concerns itself with the overarching topics of individual liberty and sovereignty, conflict with authoritarian or surveillance states, and the restoration or preservation of rights that citizens of the Western world have come to expect: privacy, freedom of speech, the right to private property, and freedom to transact and form contracts.
Though enjoying something of a resurgence in recent decades and especially post Covid, freedom fiction is not new, and famous/infamous novels throughout the centuries could be retroactively categorised as freedom fiction.
Think of The Epic of Gilgamesh (2000BC), Greek tragedies (500BC), Uncle Tom's Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe (1852), which helped fuel the anti-slavery movement, or We by Yevgeny Zamyatin, written over 100 years ago.
Today, freedom fiction is an emerging category that includes the revival of the cypherpunk movement, as privacy technologies such as Bitcoin seek to remove the reliance on the banking system, which has become an effective method of control for the establishment.
Why read freedom fiction?
Storytelling is a tradition as old as humanity itself, created to share the joy and wonder of imagined worlds. Fiction can also serve as a warning of what might come, and playing out “what if?” scenarios in our minds can help us in the real world, too.
Any individual interested in escaping the modern debt-slavery rat race we’ve found ourselves forced into can enjoy freedom stories with a greater and deeper understanding of just how real this “fiction” could be in the future.
Spiking interest
Data from Google Trends shows that in the United Kingdom — a nation increasingly concerned with policing speech, surveillance and other dystopic methods — interest in freedom has been spiking in the past five years, centred in England.
Source: Google Trends
Now let’s take a look at the data for the United States:
Despite a lower interest overall, the spike in 2023 mirrors that of the UK. Perhaps this was due to an event featured in the news or even a brand name or TikTok trend.
It is interesting to note that although a great number of Amercians fear losing their freedoms, fewer are searching how to protect them.
One reason for the rise in freedom fiction could be that Libertarian thinkers, praxeologists, and freedom maximalists seek to alert the populace through emotive stories. Few, it seems, are awakened when presented with legacy media propaganda and government messages.
The benefits & outcomes of reading freedom fiction
Once a human mind has acquired a taste for freedom fiction, there are numerous benefits and likely outcomes that will arise as a result:
Benefits:
- Broadened perspective and understanding of historical issues
- Increased empathy and social understanding
- Inspiration, motivation & empowerment
- Critical thinking skills & awareness
- Emotional connection
Once the reader has enjoyed these benefits, it is likely they will put their newfound understanding to action, bringing about outcomes like these.
Outcomes:
- Appreciation of and gratitude for freedom
- Informed civic engagement
- Agency for social change
- Personal growth
It would appear, then, that at some point, freedom fiction will have a transformative impact on the social demographics of the civilised world. As popular Netflix shows like Black Mirror highlight our reliance and overreliance on digital media, and governments continue to censor user-generated content posted socially, we must ask ourselves, when exactly will we wake up to what is happening?
We are more connected, but more controlled, than ever. How can we use the tools that enslave us to liberate us? Perhaps through sharing stories.
Aspects of freedom, genres, and time periods
Freedom fiction is a broad spectrum, encompassing various aspects, genres and time periods.
Aspects — privacy, freedom of speech, wrongful imprisonment, oppression, discrimination, government overreach, surveilance, debanking, censorship, confiscation, forced separation and more.
Genres — horror, sci-fi, fantasy, thriller and even young adult romance stories can contribute to the growing canon of libertarian-themed fiction.
Time periods — slavery in the past, alien invasions in the future, totalitarian governments in the present. Freedom fiction can relate to any time period.
15+ Classic Freedom-themed Books
In no particular order, here are 15 of the greatest examples of freedom stories from modern times:
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Nineteen Eighty-Four by George Orwell (1949): A dystopian classic where the Party controls every aspect of people's lives, and Winston Smith rebels against the oppressive regime.
Reason to read: Offers a chilling and thought-provoking exploration of totalitarianism, mass surveillance, and the importance of individual thought and truth.
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The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood (1985): In a totalitarian regime where women are stripped of their rights, Offred fights for survival and a chance to regain her freedom.
Reason to read: A haunting story that explores themes of feminism, oppression, and resistance, with a timely warning about the dangers of religious extremism and the fragility of women's rights.
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Brave New World by Aldous Huxley (1932): A satirical look at a future society where people are genetically engineered and conditioned to conform, and a "savage" challenges their way of life.
Reason to read: Provides an unsettling vision of a future where happiness is manufactured at the cost of individuality, freedom, and genuine human connection.
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Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury (1953): In a world where books are banned, Guy Montag, a fireman, discovers the power of knowledge and fights for intellectual freedom.
Reason to read: A passionate defense of the importance of books, ideas, and intellectual freedom, and a warning against censorship.
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The Giver by Lois Lowry (1993): A young boy named Jonas discovers the dark secrets of his seemingly Utopian society, where there is no pain, sadness, or freedom of choice.
Reason to read: A thought-provoking exploration of utopia, dystopia, and the importance of memory, emotion, and individual choice in a truly human life.
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One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest by Ken Kesey (1962): Randle McMurphy challenges the authority of a mental institution, becoming a symbol of rebellion and the fight for individual freedom.
Reason to read: A powerful and moving story about the struggle against forced conformity and the importance of individuality, even in the face of oppressive systems.
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Little Brother by Cory Doctorow (2008): This contemporary science fiction novel explores themes of government surveillance, digital rights, and the power of decentralized networks in challenging authority.
Reason to read: a timely exploration of digital surveillance, government overreach, and the power of youthful activism in defending civil liberties in the modern age.
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Beloved by Toni Morrison (1987): Set after the American Civil War, this novel explores the psychological and emotional scars of slavery and the struggle for freedom and identity.
Reason to read: A masterpiece that delves into the legacy of slavery and its enduring impact on identity, memory, and the quest for freedom.
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The Book Thief by Markus Zusak (2005): In Nazi Germany, a young girl named Liesel Meminger finds solace in stolen books and discovers the power of words to resist oppression and find freedom.
Reason to read: A beautifully written story about the power of words to nourish the soul, resist oppression, and find hope and freedom in the darkest of times.
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Animal Farm by George Orwell (1945): An allegorical novella about a revolution on a farm that turns into a totalitarian dictatorship, highlighting the dangers of unchecked power, Communism, and the loss of freedom.
Reason to read: A timeless allegory that exposes the corruption of revolutions, the fragility of freedom, and the importance of resistance against tyranny.
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A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini (2007): This novel tells the story of two Afghan women whose lives intersect under the oppressive Taliban regime, and their fight for survival and freedom.
Reason to read: An eye-opening portrayal of the resilience and strength of women in the face of oppression, and a powerful story about the universal desire for dignity.
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The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead (2016): A unique novel that reimagines the Underground Railroad as a literal railroad, and follows a slave's journey.
Reason to read: A compelling blend of historical fiction and magical realism that offers a fresh perspective on the history of slavery and the enduring quest for freedom.
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Anthem by Ayn Rand (1938): A novella set in a collectivist future where the concept of "I" has been eradicated. It follows one man's rediscovery of individualism and his rebellion against the oppressive society.
Reason to read: a novella that champions radical individualism against the suffocating conformity of collectivist ideology.
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The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas (1844-46): Edmond Dantès is wrongly imprisoned and seeks revenge and freedom after years of captivity.
Reason to read: An exciting tale of betrayal, revenge, and ultimate triumph, with a focus on themes of justice, freedom, and the resilience of the human spirit.
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Snow Crash (1992) and Cryptonomicon (1999) by Neal Stephenson: While not strictly libertarian manifestos, these novels explore themes of individual freedom, the power of information, decentralized systems, and critiques of centralized authority in engaging and complex ways.
Reason to read: these books are considered modern cypherpunk classics. They are rich in detail and the perfect starting place to learn more about the genre and why it is important for freedom.
## Lesser-known Freedom Books
Here are 15 lesser-known, more modern books that also explore the theme of freedom:
- Exit West by Mohsin Hamid (2017): This novel uses magical realism to depict refugees fleeing a war-torn country and seeking freedom and safety in an uncertain world.
- A Lodging of Wayfaring Men by Paul Rosenberg (2007): a libertarian novel based on real events that explores themes of individual sovereignty and free markets.
- The Probability Broach by L. Neil Smith (1979): An alternate history novel where a slight change in the Declaration of Independence leads to a libertarian society in North America. It's the first in Smith's "North American Confederacy" series.
- The Beekeeper of Aleppo by Christy Lefteri (2019): This tells the story of beekeepers forced to flee Syria and their struggle to find freedom and rebuild their lives in a new country.
- Alongside Night by J. Neil Schulman (1979): A dystopian thriller depicting the collapse of the US government and the rise of a libertarian underground.
- Freehold by Michael Z. Williamson (2004): A military science fiction series that portrays a future where individuals have seceded from Earth's controlling government to establish independent, more libertarian colonies.
- No Truce with Kings by Poul Anderson (1963): A novella that won the Hugo Award, depicting a future where scientific progress has led to a world of isolated, self-sufficient individuals, challenging traditional notions of society and government.
- A Passage North by Anuk Arudpragasam (2021): This Booker Prize-nominated novel explores the aftermath of the Sri Lankan Civil War and the complexities of memory, trauma, and the search for inner freedom.
- Kings of the High Frontier by Victor Koman (1996): A hard science fiction novel exploring themes of entrepreneurship and individual liberty in space.
- This Perfect Day by Ira Levin (1970): A dystopian novel where a seemingly Utopian global society controls every aspect of individual life, raising questions about freedom versus engineered happiness.
- Wasp by Eric Frank Russell (1957): A story containing acts of terrorism against oppressive aliens. A notable example of a single individual disrupting a larger, controlling power.
- The Peace War by Vernor Vinge (1984): A ruthless organization, the Peace Authority, uses impenetrable force fields to end war but suppresses technology and individual liberty, leading a group of rebels to fight for the freedom to advance and determine their own future.
- Starship Troopers by Robert A. Heinlein (1959): Heinlein was a prolific science fiction writer whose works frequently touch upon libertarian themes. Starship Troopers explores the ideas of civic virtue and individual responsibility.
- Live Free or Die by John Ringo (2010) follows Tyler Vernon, a fiercely independent and resourceful entrepreneur who stands up against alien oppressors and Earth's own bureaucratic tendencies to forge a path to true liberty and self-determination for humanity.
- Darkship Thieves by Sarah Hoyt (2010): Winner of the Prometheus Award for Best Libertarian SF Novel. This book follows Athena Hera Sinistra, a genetically engineered woman who escapes a tyrannical Earth to a freer society in space.
Freedom Publishers
In addition to the many works of libertarian fiction, a number of publishers are beginning to focus on stories which promote freedom.
- Liberty Island: This publisher focuses on science fiction and fantasy with libertarian and individualist themes.
- Fox News Books: While a mainstream publisher, it has been known to publish fiction with libertarian themes or by authors who are considered libertarian.
- Defiance Press & Publishing: This independent publisher openly states its commitment to publishing conservative and libertarian authors across fiction and non-fiction genres.
- Konsensus Network: A publisher that specifically promotes libertarian themes and bitcoin authors.
- All Seasons Press: Founded by former executives from Simon & Schuster and Hachette, this independent press aims to be a home for conservative voices.
- Baen Books: This is a well-known publisher, particularly in science fiction and fantasy, that often features authors and stories exploring themes of individual liberty, self-reliance, and limited government.
- Morlock Publishing: This small press specializes in science fiction with themes often including aspects of anarcho-capitalism and libertarian rebellion.
- Heresy Press (now an imprint of Skyhorse Publishing): While broader in its scope, Heresy Press aimed to publish "uncensored, outspoken, and free-spirited books" which can include libertarian viewpoints in fiction.
- Libertarian Futurist Society (LFS) (indirectly): While not a traditional publisher, the LFS sponsors the Prometheus Award and promotes libertarian science fiction. Their website and related platforms can be resources for finding authors and works, which are then published by various houses.
Recent Trends in Libertarian Fiction:
Konsensus Network’s new imprint, 21 Futures, is building a movement centred on freedom fiction, a movement in which emerging and established writers can contribute their storytelling media to anthologies and blogs, as well as publish their own individual works.
To date, two short story anthologies are available from 21 Futures:
Tales from the Timechain: the world’s first Bitcoin-fiction anthology.
21 writers examine how the hardest sound money ever created can restore freedom and liberty to mankind.
Financial Fallout: in this recently-released anthology, 21 writers weave financial dystopia from across a broader spectrum of freedom fiction, sewing seeds of eventual hope.
In addition to 21 Futures, a host of self-published and even best-selling fiction on the theme of bitcoin is now available. The Rapid Rise of Bitcoin Fiction documents the history and current trends in this genre.
## What happens next?
As governments tighten their grip on our data and our freedoms erode, we expect that freedom fiction will become a wider phenomenon. It is our hope and belief that Konsensus Network and 21 Futures will help drive growth in the genre and better understanding of how to protect individual freedom through our multimedia publications.
Follow our socials to keep up to date on future releases.
This blog was originally published on the 21 Futures blog by Alex Boast.
Alex is a web3 writer, ghost writer and ghost story writer. He’s a novelist and poet from England who loves to work with other writers as a coach, mentor and friend. You can find him on LinkedIn.
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@ f32184ee:6d1c17bf
2025-04-23 13:21:52Ads Fueling Freedom
Ross Ulbricht’s "Decentralize Social Media" painted a picture of a user-centric, decentralized future that transcended the limitations of platforms like the tech giants of today. Though focused on social media, his concept provided a blueprint for decentralized content systems writ large. The PROMO Protocol, designed by NextBlock while participating in Sovereign Engineering, embodies this blueprint in the realm of advertising, leveraging Nostr and Bitcoin’s Lightning Network to give individuals control, foster a multi-provider ecosystem, and ensure secure value exchange. In this way, Ulbricht’s 2021 vision can be seen as a prescient prediction of the PROMO Protocol’s structure. This is a testament to the enduring power of his ideas, now finding form in NextBlock’s innovative approach.
[Current Platform-Centric Paradigm, source: Ross Ulbricht's Decentralize Social Media]
Ulbricht’s Vision: A Decentralized Social Protocol
In his 2021 Medium article Ulbricht proposed a revolutionary vision for a decentralized social protocol (DSP) to address the inherent flaws of centralized social media platforms, such as privacy violations and inconsistent content moderation. Writing from prison, Ulbricht argued that decentralization could empower users by giving them control over their own content and the value they create, while replacing single, monolithic platforms with a competitive ecosystem of interface providers, content servers, and advertisers. Though his focus was on social media, Ulbricht’s ideas laid a conceptual foundation that strikingly predicts the structure of NextBlock’s PROMO Protocol, a decentralized advertising system built on the Nostr protocol.
[A Decentralized Social Protocol (DSP), source: Ross Ulbricht's Decentralize Social Media]
Ulbricht’s Principles
Ulbricht’s article outlines several key principles for his DSP: * User Control: Users should own their content and dictate how their data and creations generate value, rather than being subject to the whims of centralized corporations. * Decentralized Infrastructure: Instead of a single platform, multiple interface providers, content hosts, and advertisers interoperate, fostering competition and resilience. * Privacy and Autonomy: Decentralized solutions for profile management, hosting, and interactions would protect user privacy and reduce reliance on unaccountable intermediaries. * Value Creation: Users, not platforms, should capture the economic benefits of their contributions, supported by decentralized mechanisms for transactions.
These ideas were forward-thinking in 2021, envisioning a shift away from the centralized giants dominating social media at the time. While Ulbricht didn’t specifically address advertising protocols, his framework for decentralization and user empowerment extends naturally to other domains, like NextBlock’s open-source offering: the PROMO Protocol.
NextBlock’s Implementation of PROMO Protocol
The PROMO Protocol powers NextBlock's Billboard app, a decentralized advertising protocol built on Nostr, a simple, open protocol for decentralized communication. The PROMO Protocol reimagines advertising by: * Empowering People: Individuals set their own ad prices (e.g., 500 sats/minute), giving them direct control over how their attention or space is monetized. * Marketplace Dynamics: Advertisers set budgets and maximum bids, competing within a decentralized system where a 20% service fee ensures operational sustainability. * Open-Source Flexibility: As an open-source protocol, it allows multiple developers to create interfaces or apps on top of it, avoiding the single-platform bottleneck Ulbricht critiqued. * Secure Payments: Using Strike Integration with Bitcoin Lightning Network, NextBlock enables bot-resistant and intermediary-free transactions, aligning value transfer with each person's control.
This structure decentralizes advertising in a way that mirrors Ulbricht’s broader vision for social systems, with aligned principles showing a specific use case: monetizing attention on Nostr.
Aligned Principles
Ulbricht’s 2021 article didn’t explicitly predict the PROMO Protocol, but its foundational concepts align remarkably well with NextBlock's implementation the protocol’s design: * Autonomy Over Value: Ulbricht argued that users should control their content and its economic benefits. In the PROMO Protocol, people dictate ad pricing, directly capturing the value of their participation. Whether it’s their time, influence, or digital space, rather than ceding it to a centralized ad network. * Ecosystem of Providers: Ulbricht envisioned multiple providers replacing a single platform. The PROMO Protocol’s open-source nature invites a similar diversity: anyone can build interfaces or tools on top of it, creating a competitive, decentralized advertising ecosystem rather than a walled garden. * Decentralized Transactions: Ulbricht’s DSP implied decentralized mechanisms for value exchange. NextBlock delivers this through the Bitcoin Lightning Network, ensuring that payments for ads are secure, instantaneous and final, a practical realization of Ulbricht’s call for user-controlled value flows. * Privacy and Control: While Ulbricht emphasized privacy in social interactions, the PROMO Protocol is public by default. Individuals are fully aware of all data that they generate since all Nostr messages are signed. All participants interact directly via Nostr.
[Blueprint Match, source NextBlock]
Who We Are
NextBlock is a US-based new media company reimagining digital ads for a decentralized future. Our founders, software and strategy experts, were hobbyist podcasters struggling to promote their work online without gaming the system. That sparked an idea: using new tech like Nostr and Bitcoin to build a decentralized attention market for people who value control and businesses seeking real connections.
Our first product, Billboard, is launching this June.
Open for All
Our model’s open-source! Check out the PROMO Protocol, built for promotion and attention trading. Anyone can join this decentralized ad network. Run your own billboard or use ours. This is a growing ecosystem for a new ad economy.
Our Vision
NextBlock wants to help build a new decentralized internet. Our revolutionary and transparent business model will bring honest revenue to companies hosting valuable digital spaces. Together, we will discover what our attention is really worth.
Read our Manifesto to learn more.
NextBlock is registered in Texas, USA.
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@ e4950c93:1b99eccd
2025-04-24 12:07:49Heureu-x-se d’avoir trouvé une information utile sur ce site ?
Soutenez le projet en faisant un don pour le faire vivre et remercier les contribut-eur-rice-s.
En bitcoin
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Sur la blockchain : bc1qkm8me8l9563wvsl9sklzt4hdcuny3tlejznj7d
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Réseau lightning : ⚡️
origin-nature@coinos.io
Vous pouvez aussi nous soutenir de manière récurrente 👉 Créer un paiement Lightning récurrent
En euros, dollars, ou toute autre monnaie prise en charge
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Par virement, IBAN : FR76 2823 3000 0144 3759 8717 669
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Vous pouvez aussi nous soutenir de manière récurrente 👉 Faire une promesse sur LiberaPay
Contactez-nous si vous souhaitez faire un don avec toute autre cryptomonnaie.
💡 Un modèle de partage de la valeur
La moitié des dons est redistribuée aux contribut-eur-rice-s qui créent la valeur du site, pour expérimenter un modèle de partage de revenus sur Internet — un modèle qui respecte vos données et ne cherche pas à capter votre attention. L’autre moitié permet de couvrir les frais de fonctionnement du site.
Cet article est publié sur origine-nature.com 🌐 See this article in English
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@ 7d33ba57:1b82db35
2025-04-24 10:49:41Tucked away in the rolling hills of southern France’s Hérault department, Montpeyroux is a charming medieval village known for its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful stone houses, and excellent Languedoc wines. It’s the kind of place where time seems to slow down, making it perfect for a relaxed stop on a southern France road trip.
🏡 Why Visit Montpeyroux?
🪨 Authentic Medieval Character
- Wander narrow cobbled streets lined with honey-colored stone houses
- Visit the remains of a medieval castle and old tower that offer stunning views over vineyards and hills
- A tranquil place that feels untouched by time
🍷 Wine Culture
- Surrounded by prestigious vineyards producing Coteaux du Languedoc wines
- Stop by local caves (wineries) to taste bold reds and crisp whites—many with stunning views over the valley
- Don’t miss the annual wine festivals and open cellars
🌄 Scenic Location
- Located near the Gorges de l’Hérault, perfect for hiking, swimming, or kayaking
- Just a short drive from Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, one of France’s most beautiful villages
- Great base for exploring the natural beauty of Occitanie
🍽️ Where to Eat
- Enjoy local cuisine at cozy bistros—think grilled lamb, duck confit, olives, and regional cheeses
- Many places serve seasonal dishes paired with local wines
🚗 Getting There
- Around 45 minutes by car from Montpellier
- Best explored by car as public transport is limited, but the countryside drive is worth it
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@ 9bde4214:06ca052b
2025-04-22 22:04:08"With the shift towards this multi-agent collaboration and orchestration world, you need a neutral substrate that has money/identity/cryptography and web-of-trust baked in, to make everything work."
Pablo & Gigi are getting high on glue.
Books & articles mentioned:
- Saving beauty by Byung-Chul Han
- LLMs as a tool for thought by Amelia Wattenberger
In this dialogue:
- vibeline & vibeline-ui
- LLMs as tools, and how to use them
- Vervaeke: AI thresholds & the path we must take
- Hallucinations and grounding in reality
- GPL, LLMs, and open-source licensing
- Pablo's multi-agent Roo setup
- Are we going to make programmers obsolete?
- "When it works it's amazing"
- Hiring & training agents
- Agents creating RAG databases of NIPs
- Different models and their context windows
- Generalists vs specialists
- "Write drunk, edit sober"
- DVMCP.fun
- Recklessness and destruction of vibe-coding
- Sharing secrets with agents & LLMs
- The "no API key" advantage of nostr
- What data to trust? And how does nostr help?
- Identity, web of trust, and signing data
- How to fight AI slop
- Marketplaces of code snippets
- Restricting agents with expert knowledge
- Trusted sources without a central repository
- Zapstore as the prime example
- "How do you fight off re-inventing GitHub?"
- Using large context windows to help with refactoring
- Code snippets for Olas, NDK, NIP-60, and more
- Using MCP as the base
- Using nostr as the underlying substrate
- Nostr as the glue & the discovery layer
- Why is this important?
- Why is this exciting?
- "With the shift towards this multi-agent collaboration and orchestration world, you need a neutral substrate that has money/identity/cryptography and web-of-trust baked in, to make everything work."
- How to single-shot nostr applications
- "Go and create this app"
- The agent has money, because of NIP-60/61
- PayPerQ
- Anthropic and the genius of mcp-tools
- Agents zapping & giving SkyNet more money
- Are we going to run the mints?
- Are agents going to run the mints?
- How can we best explain this to our bubble?
- Let alone to people outside of our bubble?
- Building pipelines of multiple agents
- LLM chains & piped Unix tools
- OpenAI vs Anthropic
- Genius models without tools vs midwit models with tools
- Re-thinking software development
- LLMs allow you to tackle bigger problems
- Increased speed is a paradigm shift
- Generalists vs specialists, left brain vs right brain
- Nostr as the home for specialists
- fiatjaf publishing snippets (reluctantly)
- fiatjaf's blossom implementation
- Thinking with LLMs
- The tension of specialization VS generalization
- How the publishing world changed
- Stupid faces on YouTube thumbnails
- Gaming the algorithm
- Will AI slop destroy the attention economy?
- Recency bias & hiding publication dates
- Undoing platform conditioning as a success metric
- Craving realness in a fake attention world
- The theater of the attention economy
- What TikTok got "right"
- Porn, FoodPorn, EarthPorn, etc.
- Porn vs Beauty
- Smoothness and awe
- "Beauty is an angel that could kill you in an instant (but decides not to)."
- The success of Joe Rogan & long-form conversations
- Smoothness fatigue & how our feeds numb us
- Nostr & touching grass
- How movement changes conversations
- LangChain & DVMs
- Central models vs marketplaces
- Going from assembly to high-level to conceptual
- Natural language VS programming languages
- Pablo's code snippets
- Writing documentation for LLMs
- Shared concepts, shared language, and forks
- Vibe-forking open-source software
- Spotting vibe-coded interfaces
- Visualizing nostr data in a 3D world
- Tweets, blog posts, and podcasts
- Vibe-producing blog posts from conversations
- Tweets are excellent for discovery
- Adding context to tweets (long-form posts, podcasts, etc)
- Removing the character limit was a mistake
- "Everyone's attention span is rekt"
- "There is no meaning without friction"
- "Nothing worth having ever comes easy"
- Being okay with doing the hard thing
- Growth hacks & engagement bait
- TikTok, theater, and showing faces and emotions
- The 1% rule: 99% of internet users are Lurkers
- "We are socially malnourished"
- Web-of-trust and zaps bring realness
- The semantic web does NOT fix this LLMs might
- "You can not model the world perfectly"
- Hallucination as a requirement for creativity
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@ df478568:2a951e67
2025-04-22 18:56:38"It might make sense just to get some in case it catches on. If enough people think the same way, that becomes a self fulfilling prophecy. Once it gets bootstrapped, there are so many applications if you could effortlessly pay a few cents to a website as easily as dropping coins in a vending machine." --Satoshi Nakamoto The Cryptography Mailing List--January 17, 2009
Forgot to add the good part about micropayments. While I don't think Bitcoin is practical for smaller micropayments right now, it will eventually be as storage and bandwidth costs continue to fall. If Bitcoin catches on on a big scale, it may already be the case by that time. Another way they can become more practical is if I implement client-only mode and the number of network nodes consolidates into a smaller number of professional server farms. Whatever size micropayments you need will eventually be practical. I think in 5 or 10 years, the bandwidth and storage will seem trivial. --Satoshi Nakamoto Bitcoin Talk-- August 5, 2010
I very be coded some HTML buttons using Claude and uploaded it to https://github.com/GhostZaps/ It's just a button that links to zapper.fun.
I signed up for Substack to build an email address, but learned adding different payment options to Substack is against their terms and services. Since I write about nostr, these terms seem as silly as someone saying Craig Wright is Satoshi. It's easy to build an audience on Substack however, or so I thought. Why is it easier to build an audience on Subtack though? Because Substack is a platform that markets to writers. Anyone with a ~~pen~~ ~~keyboard~~ smartphone and an email can create an account with Substack. There's just one problem: You are an Internet serf, working the land for your Internet landlord--The Duke of Substack.
Then I saw that Shawn posted about Substack's UX.
I should have grabbed my reading glasses before pushing the post button, but it occurred to me that I could use Ghost to do this and there is probably a way to hack it to accept bitcoin payments over the lightning network and host it yourself. So I spun my noddle, doodled some plans...And then it hit me. Ghost allows for markdown and HTML. I learned HTML and CSS with free-code camp, but ain't nobody got time to type CSS so I vibe-coded a button that ~~baits~~ sends the clicker to my zapper.fun page. This can be used on any blog that allows you to paste html into it so I added it to my Ghost blog self-hosted on a Start 9. The blog is on TOR at http://p66dxywd2xpyyrdfxwilqcxmchmfw2ixmn2vm74q3atf22du7qmkihyd.onion/, but most people around me have been conditioned to fear the dark web so I used the cloudflared to host my newsletter on the clear net at https://marc26z.com/
Integrating Nostr Into My Self-Hosted Ghost Newsletter
I would venture to say I am more technical than the average person and I know HTML, but my CSS is fuzzy. I also know how to print("Hello world!") in python, but I an NPC beyond the basics. Nevertheless, I found that I know enough to make a button. I can't code well enough to create my own nostr long-form client and create plugins for ghost that send lightning payments to lighting channel, but I know enough about nostr to know that I don't need to. That's why nostr is so F@#%-ing cool! It's all connected. ** - One button takes you to zapper.fun where you can zap anywhere between 1 and ,000,000 sats.** - Another button sends you to a zap planner pre-set to send 5,000 sats to the author per month using nostr. - Yet another button sends you to a zap planner preset to send 2,500 sats per month.
The possibilities are endless. I entered a link that takes the clicker to my Shopstr Merch Store. The point is to write as self-sovereign as possible. I might need to change my lightning address when stuff breaks every now and then, but I like the idea of busking for sats by writing on the Internet using the Value 4 Value model. I dislike ads, but I also want people to buy stuff from people I do business with because I want to promote using bitcoin as peer-to-peer electronic cash, not NGU porn. I'm not prude. I enjoy looking at the price displayed on my BlockClock micro every now and then, but I am not an NGU porn addict.
This line made this pattern, that line made this pattern. All that Bolinger Bart Simpson bullshit has nothing to with bitcoin, a peer-to-peer electronic cash system. It is the musings of a population trapped in the fiat mind-set. Bitcoin is permissionless so I realized I was bieng a hipocryte by using a permissioned payment system becaue it was easier than writing a little vibe code. I don't need permission to write for sats. I don't need to give my bank account number to Substack. I don't need to pay a 10$ vig to publish on a a platform which is not designed for stacking sats. I can write on Ghost and integrate clients that already exist in the multi-nostr-verse.
Nostr Payment Buttons
The buttons can be fouund at https://github.com/Marc26z/GhostZapButton
You can use them yourself. Just replace my npub with your npub or add any other link you want. It doesn't technically need to be a nostr link. It can be anything. I have a link to another Ghost article with other buttons that lead down different sat pledging amounts. It's early. Everyone who spends bitcoin is on nostr and nostr is small, but growing community. I want to be part of this community. I want to find other writers on nostr and stay away from Substack.
Here's what it looks like on Ghost: https://marc26z.com/zaps-on-ghost/
npub1marc26z8nh3xkj5rcx7ufkatvx6ueqhp5vfw9v5teq26z254renshtf3g0
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@ 10f7c7f7:f5683da9
2025-04-24 10:07:09The first time I received a paycheque from a full-time job, after being told in the interview I would be earning one amount, the amount I received was around 25% less; you’re not in Kansas anymore, welcome to the real work and TAX. Over the years, I’ve continued to pay my taxes, as a good little citizen, and at certain points along the way, I have paid considerable amounts of tax, because I wouldn’t want to break the law by not paying my taxes. Tax is necessary for a civilised society, they say. I’m told, who will pay, at least in the UK, for the NHS, who will pay for the roads, who will pay for the courts, the military, the police, if I don’t pay my taxes? But let’s be honest, apart from those who pay very little to no tax, who, in a society actually gets good value for money out of the taxes they pay, or hears of a government institution that operates efficiently and effectively? Alternatively, imagine if the government didn’t have control of a large military budget, would they be quite so keen to deploy the young of our country into harm’s way, in the name of national security or having streets in Ukraine named after them for their generous donations of munition paid with someone else’s money?
While I’m only half-way through the excellent “Fiat Standard”, I’m well aware that many of these issues have been driven by the ability of those in charge to not only enforce and increase taxation at will, but also, if ends don’t quite meet, print the difference, however, these are rather abstract and high-level ideas for my small engineer’s brain. What has really brought this into sharp focus for me is the impending sale of my first house, that at the age of 25, I was duly provided a 40-year mortgage and was required to sign a form acknowledging that I would still be paying the mortgage after my retirement age. Fortunately for me, thanks to the government now changing the national age of retirement from 65 to 70 (so stealing 5 years of my retirement), in practice this form didn’t need to be signed, lucky me? Even so, what type of person would knowingly put another person in a situation where near 40% of their wage would mainly be paying interest to the bank (which as a side note was bailed out only a few years later). The unpleasant taste really became unbearable when even after being put into this “working life” sentence of debt repayment, was, even with the amount I’d spent on the house (debt interest and maintenance) over the subsequent 19 years, only able to provide a rate of return of less than 1.6%, compared to the average official (bullshit) inflation figure of 2.77%. My house has not kept up with inflation and to add insult to financial injury, His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs feel the need to take their portion of this “profit”.
At which point, I take a very deep breath, sit quietly for a moment, and channel my inner Margot, deciding against grabbing a bottle of bootleg antiseptic to both clear my pallet and dull the pain. I had been convinced I needed to get on the housing ladder to save, but the government has since printed billions, with the rate of, even the conservative estimates of inflation, out pacing my meagre returns on property, and after all that blood, sweet, tears and dust, covering my poor dog, “the law” states some of that money is theirs. I wasn’t able to save in the money that they could print at will, I worked very hard, I took risks and the reward I get is to give them even more money to fritter away of things that won’t benefit me. But, I don’t want your sympathy, I don’t need it, but it helped me to get a new perspective on capital gains, particularly when considered in relation to bitcoin. So, to again draw from Ms. Paez, who herself was drawing from everyone’s favourite Joker, Heath Ledger, not Rachel Reeves (or J. Powell), here we go.
The Sovereign Individual is by no means an easy read, but is absolutely fascinating, providing clear critiques of the system that at the time was only in its infancy, but predicting many aspects of today’s world, with shocking accuracy. One of the most striking parts for me was the critique and effect of taxation (specifically progressive forms) on the prosperity of a nation at large. At an individual level, people have a proportion of their income removed, to be spent by the government, out of the individuals’ control. The person who has applied their efforts, abilities and skills to earn a living is unable to decide how best to utilise a portion of the resources into the future. While this is an accepted reality, the authors’ outline the cumulative, compound impact of forfeiting such a large portion of your wage each year, leading to figures that are near unimaginable to anyone without a penchant for spreadsheets or an understanding of exponential growth. Now, if we put this into the context of the entrepreneur, identifying opportunities, taking on personal and business risk, whenever a profit is realised, whether through normal sales or when realising value from capital appreciation, they must pay a portion of this in tax. While there are opportunities to reinvest this back into the organisation, there may be no immediate investment opportunities for them to offset their current tax bill. As a result, the entrepreneurs are hampered from taking the fruits of their labour and compounding the results of their productivity, forced to fund the social programmes of a government pursuing aims that are misaligned with individuals running their own business. Resources are removed from the most productive individuals in the society, adding value, employing staff, to those who may have limited knowledge of the economic realities of business; see Oxbridge Scholars, with experience in NGOs or charities, for more details please see Labour’s current front bench. What was that Labour? Ah yes, let’s promote growth by taxing companies more and making it more difficult to get rid of unproductive staff, exactly the policies every small business owner has been asking for (Budget October 2024).
Now, for anyone on NOSTR, none of this is new, a large portion of Nostriches were orange pilled long before taking their first purple pill of decentralise Notes and Other Stuff. However, if we’re aware of this system that has been put in place to steal our earnings and confiscate our winnings if we have been able to outwit the Keynesian trap western governments have chosen to give themselves more power, how can we progress? What options do we have? a) being locked up for non-payment of taxes by just spending bitcoin, to hell with paying taxes or b) spend/sell (:/), but keeping a record of those particular coins you bought multiple years ago, in order to calculate your gain and hand over YOUR money the follow tax year, so effectively increasing the cost of anything purchased in bitcoin. Please note, I’m making a conscious effort not to say what should be done, everyone needs to make decisions based on their knowledge and their understanding.
Anyway, option a) is not as flippant as one might think, but also not something one should (damn it) do carelessly. One bitcoin equals one bitcoin, bitcoin is money, as a result, it neither increases nor decreases is value, it is fiat currencies that varies wildly in comparison. If we think about gold, the purchasing power of gold has remained relatively consistent over hundreds of years, gold is viewed as money, which (as a side note) results in Royal Mint gold coins being both exempt of VAT and capital gains tax. While I may consider this from a, while not necessarily biased, but definitely pro-bitcoin perspective, I believe that it is extremely logical for transactions that take place in bitcoin should not require “profits” or “losses” to be reports, but this is where my logic and the treasury’s grabbiness are inconsistent. If what you’re buying is priced in bitcoin, you’re trading goods or services for money, there was no realisation of gains. Having said that, if you choose to do this, best not do any spending from a stack with a connection to an exchange and your identify. When tax collectors (and their government masters) end up not having enough money, they may begin exploring whether those people buying bitcoin from exchanges are also spending it.
But why is this relevant or important? For me and from hearing from many people on podcasts, while not impossible and not actually that difficult, recording gains on each transaction is firstly a barrier for spending bitcoin, it is additional effort, admin and not insignificant cost, and no one likes that. Secondly, from my libertarian leaning perspective, tax is basically the seizure of assets under the threat of incarceration (aka theft), with the government spending that money on crap I don’t give a shit about, meaning I don’t want to help fund their operation more than I already do. The worry is, if I pay more taxes, they think they’re getting good at collecting taxes, they increase taxes, use taxes to employ more tax collectors, rinse and repeat. From this perspective, it is almost my duty not to report when I transact in bitcoin, viewing it as plain and simple, black-market money, where the government neither dictates what I can do with it, nor profit from its appreciation.
The result of this is not the common mantra of never sell your bitcoin, because I, for one, am looking forward to ditching the fiat grind and having more free time driving an interesting 90’s sports car or riding a new mountain bike, which I will need money to be fund. Unless I’m going to take a fair bit of tax evasion-based risk, find some guys who will only accept my KYC free bitcoin and then live off the grid, I’ll need to find another way, which unfortunately may require engaging once more with the fiat system. However, this time, rather than selling bitcoin to buy fiat, looking for financial product providers who offer loans against bitcoin held. This is nothing new, having been a contributing factors to the FTX blow up, and the drawdown of 2022, the logic of such products is solid and the secret catalyst to Mark Moss’s (and others) buy, borrow, die strategy. The difference this time is to earn from our mistakes, to choose the right company and maybe hand over our private keys (multisig is a beautiful thing). The key benefit of this is that by taking a loan, you’re not realising capital gains, so do not create a taxable event. While there is likely to be an interest on any loan, this only makes sense if this is considerably less than either the capital gains rate incurred if you sold the bitcoin or the long-term capital appreciation of the bitcoin you didn’t have to sell, it has to be an option worth considering.
Now, this is interacting with the fiat system, it does involve the effective printing of money and depending on the person providing the loan, there is risk, however, there are definitely some positives, even outside the not inconsiderable, “tax free” nature of this money. Firstly, by borrowing fiat money, you are increasing the money supply, while devaluing all other holders of that currency, which effectively works against fiat governments, causing them to forever print harder to stop themselves going into a deflationary nose drive. The second important aspect is that if you have not had to sell your bitcoin, you have removed sell pressure from the market and buying pressure that would strengthen the fiat currency, so further supporting the stack you have not had to sell.
Now, let’s put this in the context of The Sovereign Individual or the entrepreneurial bitcoiner, who took a risk before fully understanding what they were buying and has now benefiting financially. The barrier of tax-based admin or the reticence to support government operations through paying additional tax are not insignificant, which the loan has allowed you to effectively side step, keeping more value of your holdings to allocate as you see fit. While this may involve the setting up of a new business that itself may drive productive growth, even if all you did was spend that money (such as a sport car or a new bike), this could still be a net, economic positive compared to a large portion of that money being sucked into the government spending black hole. While the government would not be receiving that tax revenue, every retailer, manufacturer or service provider would benefit from this additional business. Rather than the tax money going toward interest costs or civil servant wages, the money would go towards the real businesses you have chosen, their staff’s wages, who are working hard to outcompete their peers. Making this choice to not pay capital gains does not just allow bitcoiner to save money and to a small degree, reduce government funding, but also provides a cash injection to those companies who may still be reeling from minimum wage AND national insurance increases.
I’m not an ethicist, so am unable to provide a clear, concise, philosophical argument to explain why the ability of government to steal from you via the processes of monetary inflation as well as an ever-increasing tax burden in immoral, but I hope this provides a new perspective on the situation. I don’t believe increases in taxes support economic development (it literally does the opposite), I don’t believe that individuals should be penalised for working hard, challenging themselves, taking risks and succeeding. However, I’m not in charge of the system and also appreciate that if any major changes were to take place, the consequences would be significant (we’re talking Mandibles time). I believe removing capital gains tax from bitcoin would be a net positive for the economy and there being precedence based on the UK’s currently position with gold coins, but unfortunately, I don’t believe people in the cabinet think as I do, they see people with assets and pound signs ring up at their eyes.
As a result, my aim moving forward will be to think carefully before making purchases or sales that will incur capital gains tax (no big Lambo purchase for me at the top), but also being willing the promote the bitcoin economy by purchasing products and services with bitcoin. To do this, I’ll double confirm that spend/replace techniques actually get around capital gains by effectively using the payment rails of bitcoin to transfer value rather than to sell your bitcoin. This way, I will get to reward and promote those companies to perform at a level that warrants a little more effort with payment, without it costing me an additional 18-24% in tax later on.
So, to return to where we started and my first pay-cheque. We need to work to earn a living, but as we earn more, an ever-greater proportion is taken from us, and we are at risk of becoming stuck in a never ending fiat cycle. In the past, this was more of an issue, leading people into speculating on property or securities, which, if successful, would then incur further taxes, which will likely be spent by governments on liabilities or projects that add zero net benefits to national citizens. Apologies if you see this as a negative, but please don’t, this is the alternative to adopting a unit of account that cannot be inflated away. If you have begun to measure your wealth in bitcoin, there will be a point where you need to start to start spending. I for one, do not intend to die with my private keys in my head, but having lived a life, turbo charged by the freedom bitcoin has offered me. Bitcoin backed loans are returning to the market, with hopefully a little less risk this time around. There may be blow ups, but once they get established and interest costs start to be competed away, I will first of all acknowledge remaining risks and then not allocate 100% of my stack. Rather than being the one true bitcoiner who has never spent a sat, I will use the tools at my disposal to firstly give my family their best possible lives and secondly, not fund the government more than I need to.
Then, by the time I’m ready to leave this earth, there will be less money for me to leave to my family, but then again, the tax man would again come knocking, looking to gloat over my demise and add to my family’s misery with an outstretched hand. Then again, this piece is about capital gains rather than inheritance tax, so we can leave those discussions for another time.
This is not financial advice, please consult a financial/tax advisor before spending and replacing without filing taxes and don’t send your bitcoin to any old fella who says they’ll return it once you’ve paThe first time I received a paycheque from a full-time job, after being told in the interview I would be earning one amount, the amount I received was around 25% less; you’re not in Kansas anymore, welcome to the real work and TAX. Over the years, I’ve continued to pay my taxes, as a good little citizen, and at certain points along the way, I have paid considerable amounts of tax, because I wouldn’t want to break the law by not paying my taxes. Tax is necessary for a civilised society, they say. I’m told, who will pay, at least in the UK, for the NHS, who will pay for the roads, who will pay for the courts, the military, the police, if I don’t pay my taxes? But let’s be honest, apart from those who pay very little to no tax, who, in a society actually gets good value for money out of the taxes they pay, or hears of a government institution that operates efficiently and effectively? Alternatively, imagine if the government didn’t have control of a large military budget, would they be quite so keen to deploy the young of our country into harm’s way, in the name of national security or having streets in Ukraine named after them for their generous donations of munition paid with someone else’s money? While I’m only half-way through the excellent “Fiat Standard”, I’m well aware that many of these issues have been driven by the ability of those in charge to not only enforce and increase taxation at will, but also, if ends don’t quite meet, print the difference, however, these are rather abstract and high-level ideas for my small engineer’s brain. What has really brought this into sharp focus for me is the impending sale of my first house, that at the age of 25, I was duly provided a 40-year mortgage and was required to sign a form acknowledging that I would still be paying the mortgage after my retirement age. Fortunately for me, thanks to the government now changing the national age of retirement from 65 to 70 (so stealing 5 years of my retirement), in practice this form didn’t need to be signed, lucky me? Even so, what type of person would knowingly put another person in a situation where near 40% of their wage would mainly be paying interest to the bank (which as a side note was bailed out only a few years later). The unpleasant taste really became unbearable when even after being put into this “working life” sentence of debt repayment, was, even with the amount I’d spent on the house (debt interest and maintenance) over the subsequent 19 years, only able to provide a rate of return of less than 1.6%, compared to the average official (bullshit) inflation figure of 2.77%. My house has not kept up with inflation and to add insult to financial injury, His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs feel the need to take their portion of this “profit”.
At which point, I take a very deep breath, sit quietly for a moment, and channel my inner Margot, deciding against grabbing a bottle of bootleg antiseptic to both clear my pallet and dull the pain. I had been convinced I needed to get on the housing ladder to save, but the government has since printed billions, with the rate of, even the conservative estimates of inflation, out pacing my meagre returns on property, and after all that blood, sweet, tears and dust, covering my poor dog, “the law” states some of that money is theirs. I wasn’t able to save in the money that they could print at will, I worked very hard, I took risks and the reward I get is to give them even more money to fritter away of things that won’t benefit me. But, I don’t want your sympathy, I don’t need it, but it helped me to get a new perspective on capital gains, particularly when considered in relation to bitcoin. So, to again draw from Ms. Paez, who herself was drawing from everyone’s favourite Joker, Heath Ledger, not Rachel Reeves (or J. Powell), here we go.
The Sovereign Individual is by no means an easy reaD, but is absolutely fascinating, providing clear critiques of the system that at the time was only in its infancy, but predicting many aspects of today’s world, with shocking accuracy. One of the most striking parts for me was the critique and effect of taxation (specifically progressive forms) on the prosperity of a nation at large. At an individual level, people have a proportion of their income removed, to be spent by the government, out of the individuals’ control. The person who has applied their efforts, abilities and skills to earn a living is unable to decide how best to utilise a portion of the resources into the future. While this is an accepted reality, the authors’ outline the cumulative, compound impact of forfeiting such a large portion of your wage each year, leading to figures that are near unimaginable to anyone without a penchant for spreadsheets or an understanding of exponential growth. Now, if we put this into the context of the entrepreneur, identifying opportunities, taking on personal and business risk, whenever a profit is realised, whether through normal sales or when realising value from capital appreciation, they must pay a portion of this in tax. While there are opportunities to reinvest this back into the organisation, there may be no immediate investment opportunities for them to offset their current tax bill. As a result, the entrepreneurs are hampered from taking the fruits of their labour and compounding the results of their productivity, forced to fund the social programmes of a government pursuing aims that are misaligned with individuals running their own business. Resources are removed from the most productive individuals in the society, adding value, employing staff, to those who may have limited knowledge of the economic realities of business; see Oxbridge Scholars, with experience in NGOs or charities, for more details please see Labour’s current front bench. What was that Labour? Ah yes, let’s promote growth by taxing companies more and making it more difficult to get rid of unproductive staff, exactly the policies every small business owner has been asking for (Budget October 2024).
Now, for anyone on NOSTR, none of this is new, a large portion of Nostriches were orange pilled long before taking their first purple pill of decentralise Notes and Other Stuff. However, if we’re aware of this system that has been put in place to steal our earnings and confiscate our winnings if we have been able to outwit the Keynesian trap western governments have chosen to give themselves more power, how can we progress? What options do we have? a) being locked up for non-payment of taxes by just spending bitcoin, to hell with paying taxes or b) spend/sell (:/), but keeping a record of those particular coins you bought multiple years ago, in order to calculate your gain and hand over YOUR money the follow tax year, so effectively increasing the cost of anything purchased in bitcoin. Please note, I’m making a conscious effort not to say what should be done, everyone needs to make decisions based on their knowledge and their understanding.
Anyway, option a) is not as flippant as one might think, but also not something one should (damn it) do carelessly. One bitcoin equals one bitcoin, bitcoin is money, as a result, it neither increases nor decreases is value, it is fiat currencies that varies wildly in comparison. If we think about gold, the purchasing power of gold has remained relatively consistent over hundreds of years, gold is viewed as money, which (as a side note) results in Royal Mint gold coins being both exempt of VAT and capital gains tax. While I may consider this from a, while not necessarily biased, but definitely pro-bitcoin perspective, I believe that it is extremely logical for transactions that take place in bitcoin should not require “profits” or “losses” to be reports, but this is where my logic and the treasury’s grabbiness are inconsistent. If what you’re buying is priced in bitcoin, you’re trading goods or services for money, there was no realisation of gains. Having said that, if you choose to do this, best not do any spending from a stack with a connection to an exchange and your identify. When tax collectors (and their government masters) end up not having enough money, they may begin exploring whether those people buying bitcoin form exchanges are also spending it.
But why is this relevant or important? For me and from hearing from many people on podcasts, while not impossible and not actually that difficult, recording gains on each transaction is firstly a barrier for spending bitcoin, it is additional effort, admin and not insignificant cost, and no one likes that. Secondly, from my libertarian leaning perspective, tax is basically the seizure of assets under the threat of incarceration (aka theft), with the government spending that money on crap I don’t give a shit about, meaning I don’t want to help fund their operation more than I already do. The worry is, if I pay more taxes, they think they’re getting good at collecting taxes, they increase taxes, use taxes to employ more tax collectors, rinse and repeat. From this perspective, it is almost my duty not to report when I transact in bitcoin, viewing it as plain and simple, black-market money, where the government neither dictates what I can do with it, nor profit from its appreciation.
The result of this is not the common mantra of never sell your bitcoin, because I, for one, am looking forward to ditching the fiat grind and having more free time driving an interesting 90’s sports car or riding a new mountain bike, which I will need money to be fund. Unless I’m going to take a fair bit of tax evasion-based risk, find some guys who will only accept my KYC free bitcoin and then live off the grid, I’ll need to find another way, which unfortunately may require engaging once more with the fiat system. However, this time, rather than selling bitcoin to buy fiat, looking for financial product providers who offer loans against bitcoin held. This is nothing new, having been a contributing factors to the FTX blow up, and the drawdown of 2022, the logic of such products is solid and the secret catalyst to Mark Moss’s (and others) buy, borrow, die strategy. The difference this time is to earn from our mistakes, to choose the right company and maybe hand over our private keys (multisig is a beautiful thing). The key benefit of this is that by taking a loan, you’re not realising capital gains, so do not create a taxable event. While there is likely to be an interest on any loan, this only makes sense if this is considerably less than either the capital gains rate incurred if you sold the bitcoin or the long-term capital appreciation of the bitcoin you didn’t have to sell, it has to be an option worth considering.
Now, this is interacting with the fiat system, it does involve the effective printing of money and depending on the person providing the loan, there is risk, however, there are definitely some positives, even outside the not inconsiderable, “tax free” nature of this money. Firstly, by borrowing fiat money, you are increasing the money supply, while devaluing all other holders of that currency, which effectively works against fiat governments, causing them to forever print harder to stop themselves going into a deflationary nose drive. The second important aspect is that if you have not had to sell your bitcoin, you have removed sell pressure from the market and buying pressure that would strengthen the fiat currency, so further supporting the stack you have not had to sell. Now, let’s put this in the context of The Sovereign Individual or the entrepreneurial bitcoiner, who took a risk before fully understanding what they were buying and has now benefiting financially. The barrier of tax-based admin or the reticence to support government operations through paying additional tax are not insignificant, which the loan has allowed you to effectively side step, keeping more value of your holdings to allocate as you see fit. While this may involve the setting up of a new business that itself may drive productive growth, even if all you did was spend that money (such as a sport car or a new bike), this could still be a net, economic positive compared to a large portion of that money being sucked into the government spending black hole. While the government would not be receiving that tax revenue, every retailer, manufacturer or service provider would benefit from this additional business. Rather than the tax money going toward interest costs or civil servant wages, the money would go towards the real businesses you have chosen, their staff’s wages, who are working hard to outcompete their peers. Making this choice to not pay capital gains does not just allow bitcoiner to save money and to a small degree, reduce government funding, but also provides a cash injection to those companies who may still be reeling from minimum wage AND national insurance increases.
I’m not an ethicist, so am unable to provide a clear, concise, philosophical argument to explain why the ability of government to steal from you via the processes of monetary inflation as well as an ever-increasing tax burden in immoral, but I hope this provides a new perspective on the situation. I don’t believe increases in taxes support economic development (it literally does the opposite), I don’t believe that individuals should be penalised for working hard, challenging themselves, taking risks and succeeding. However, I’m not in charge of the system and also appreciate that if any major changes were to take place, the consequences would be significant (we’re talking Mandibles time). I believe removing capital gains tax from bitcoin would be a net positive for the economy and there being precedence based on the UK’s currently position with gold coins, but unfortunately, I don’t believe people in the cabinet think as I do, they see people with assets and pound signs ring up at their eyes.
As a result, my aim moving forward will be to think carefully before making purchases or sales that will incur capital gains tax (no big Lambo purchase for me at the top), but also being willing the promote the bitcoin economy by purchasing products and services with bitcoin. To do this, I’ll double confirm that spend/replace techniques actually get around capital gains by effectively using the payment rails of bitcoin to transfer value rather than to sell your bitcoin. This way, I will get to reward and promote those companies to perform at a level that warrants a little more effort with payment, without it costing me an additional 18-24% in tax later on.
So, to return to where we started and my first pay-cheque. We need to work to earn a living, but as we earn more, an ever-greater proportion is taken from us, and we are at risk of becoming stuck in a never ending fiat cycle. In the past, this was more of an issue, leading people into speculating on property or securities, which, if successful, would then incur further taxes, which will likely be spent by governments on liabilities or projects that add zero net benefits to national citizens. Apologies if you see this as a negative, but please don’t, this is the alternative to adopting a unit of account that cannot be inflated away. If you have begun to measure your wealth in bitcoin, there will be a point where you need to start to start spending. I for one, do not intend to die with my private keys in my head, but having lived a life, turbo charged by the freedom bitcoin has offered me. Bitcoin backed loans are returning to the market, with hopefully a little less risk this time around. There may be blow ups, but once they get established and interest costs start to be competed away, I will first of all acknowledge remaining risks and then not allocate 100% of my stack. Rather than being the one true bitcoiner who has never spent a sat, I will use the tools at my disposal to firstly give my family their best possible lives and secondly, not fund the government more than I need to.
Then, by the time I’m ready to leave this earth, there will be less money for me to leave to my family, but then again, the tax man would again come knocking, looking to gloat over my demise and add to my family’s misery with an outstretched hand. Then again, this piece is about capital gains rather than inheritance tax, so we can leave those discussions for another time.
This is not financial advice, please consult a financial/tax advisor before spending and replacing without filing taxes and don’t send your bitcoin to any old fella who says they’ll return it once you’ve paid off the loan.