I want to dispense with the metaphors and pretty wordings for a change and instead pay homage to a man who has inspired me to think on the highest possible level, to see the world through eyes that only bear witness to the truth.  Think of it as a departure from my art and more of a lesson in observation.  No clever title, no leaning on similes, just pure observation and reflection.

Bill Hicks once said, “Evolution didn’t stop with opposable thumbs.  We’ve reached a point where we can now evolve ourselves through our thoughts and lifestyles.”

I admire Hicks, not because of his comedy so much as the deeply profound spiritual message that lay at the very core of everything he delivered to us.  The man was right about evolution (and may other things).  Darwin may have cottoned onto the idea that we evolve, but Hicks took it to a different level altogether.

I’m talking about this subject because I now live in a city which is on the rise, a city which is evolving through its populace, new ideas and a growing sense of optimism.  But still I feel disconnected from most of the people around me.  I had to ask myself why?

The last year has seen something of a personal eruption.  I would say growth but it’s been more intense than simple “growth”.  I sought a way to improve my life and cut myself free from all the things which held me back.  Those things included habits, friends, family (not all) and concerns over upsetting others or trying to please them – things which frankly, we shouldn’t give a fuck about.

I sold up and shipped out, travelled Europe, found a dog and now find myself living in one of the hottest areas in Berlin – Kreuzberg.  I’m in accord with the general opinion that Xberg (as it’s fondly titled by locals) is a cool place.  Actually, it would be cool if I loved going out drinking, hanging out in cafes all the time, and loved all night social entertainment.

The thing is, I don’t love those things either.  I’m an odd creature by most people’s standards.  I love nature and freedom from social chaos.  So when I walk my dog everyday I’m reminded that I have evolved myself to another level because I don’t have it in me to litter the street with rappers and bags.

Every broken bottle I see tells me that I’ve moved on from these people and that I still need to find that place where like minds graze the intellectual meadows.  I don’t care for the trash, I hate that my dog has to walk barefoot through streets literally covered in glass and I’m sick of people’s selfish, thoughtless stupidity.

Before this becomes a rant in e minor, I want to say that if we cut through the bullshit, look inside and be honest about who we really are, we can all evolve and live harmoniously on this beautiful planet without need of drugs or chemicals, bad food and pointless television.

Happy evolving potential gods.