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As a now chronically-offline person, there’s an overwhelming sense of urgency around me as people trample to receive the newest updates on news and music. Sure, there’s importance in keeping up to date, but I mean, I’m writing this while listening to some music through a beat up UE boom that’s seen better days, and I’m content with that fact that I’m behind on trends and what’s up to date. Oh wow, Jak’s different and quirky cos he only listens to music no one has heard of and isn’t current on pop-culture knowledge. 🙄 Whatever bro.
I made a decision last year that I wasn’t going to be self-serving and post my entire life online (the irony doesn’t escape me as I write in a magazine), and the honest truth is that I’ve never felt happier in my decision. Even now I struggle with keeping up with messages and emails, understanding that people are just worried and want to know what’s going on in my life. But at what point is enough enough and we should stop knowing everything that’s going on with those around us. The world moves so quickly and we have to fight to the surface when the undertow is stronger than ever, though I want all of you to know that fighting is hard but far more fun. You don’t always have to go with the flow, you have the option to throw hands and hope they throw them back.
Obviously I’m sounding vaguely of an after-school special, but it all comes to a point. Bring back protesting and not hiding behind a keyboard. I’m sick of hearing complaints from online warriors who just aren’t going to follow through. Make that bite match your fucking bark. And if you are going to commit, push from your puku and not your throat [chur Gracie from Te Waiora]. We’ve seen strong tauira battling against a decision they don’t agree with, something that isn’t new but is well-respected in our age of justice and free speech. I’ve never been more proud to be māooooriiiii [also chur to Abbey-Jean from Te Whakahiapo]. There’s a common thread for 2023, Māori excellence and existing in spaces that we need to occupy. If you’re taking anything away, I hope it’s a little insight into the world of Waikato and how fucking cool we are. Stop looking to Māori dictionary and go meet some Māori and learn some kupu. I’ll start you off. Pānui–to read. Kua pānuitia te Nexus? 😉
There’s no reason for me to make a triumphant return to the online space, I’m enjoying the solitude and being left alone to my thoughts. If I feel the need to tell someone what’s going on, then I’ll go find them. Engage in deep kōrero and just be in the moment. This comes across as better than thou but I’m not saying that the silence is for everyone, but it’s for me–let me advocate in peace. Understand that being a chronically online person can just be fucking annoying as well, and not everyone wants to hear your opinions on everything. Except Pedro Pascal. Or Ana De Armas. Hit my line.
Mana Māori motuhake e te iwi. Lots of love, Matua Hoata.
