The Fantasy of Eternal Youth (para versión en español usar traductor del navegador web)

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Today's society sells us the idea that we are now freer and have more opportunities than ever to achieve success, fame, and happiness. We are told that we can achieve anything if we try hard enough. That our lives should be an exciting adventure, full of experiences and achievements.

But the reality is very different. The truth is that it is increasingly difficult for young people to reach traditional adulthood milestones like buying a house, starting a family, or having a stable job.

The ideals of freedom and endless opportunities that are sold to us are nothing more than a fantasy. A way to keep us compliant and consuming, accepting precarious jobs and tiny living spaces because "someday" success will come.

The Illusion of Freedom

We have been convinced that by not having ties like material possessions, long-term relationships or a steady job, we are now freer. That we can constantly reinvent ourselves and pursue our dreams without limits.

But the truth is that this supposed freedom comes at a very high price. It means having no financial or emotional security. Being willing to endure poorly paid and benefit-less work in order to "gain experience". Living day-to-day, unable to plan a stable future.

The freedom of having nothing is not really freedom. It is a convenient fantasy that allows maintaining an unequal economic system, where only a few accumulate wealth while the vast majorities must settle for crumbs.

The Trap of Toxic Positivity

We are constantly bombarded with messages that everything is possible, that we are special and can achieve anything we set our minds to. That any failure is solely because we did not try hard enough.

This toxic positivity serves to keep us believing that the system is not rigged. That if we do not succeed, it is only because we are mediocre or lazy, not because there is inequality of opportunity.

We are convinced that we can change the world through consumption. That by buying this or that "eco-friendly" or "socially responsible" product we are doing our part. While large corporations and corrupt governments continue to destroy the planet and exploit the most vulnerable.

Fantasizing About Eternal Youth

Today's society sells the idea that a youthful lifestyle can be maintained indefinitely. That the best thing is to avoid adult responsibilities and commitments as much as possible in order to enjoy fleeting adventures and pleasures for as long as possible.

This is convenient to keep consumption at high levels. We are sold the idea that accumulating possessions and experiences is what will make us happy.

But the reality is that our bodies and minds are not designed to maintain the frenetic pace of production and consumption typical of youth for decades. Exhaustion inevitably comes.

Fantasizing about eternal youth is a way to avoid uncomfortable thoughts about our mortality and insignificance. It prevents us from taking on responsibilities beyond our own navels.

Breaking the Fantasy

The only way to overcome these convenient fantasies is to confront reality as it is. We have to accept that we are not so special or the protagonists of anything. That this system is designed to benefit a few at the expense of the vast majority.

We must think beyond our own lives and comforts. Although we may not live to see them, our actions will have consequences for future generations. We are not merely consumers looking for ephemeral pleasures, but citizens with the responsibility to work towards a more just and sustainable world.

This does not mean completely giving up the pleasures of youth. It is okay to have fun and enjoy life in moderation and wisdom. But it must be balanced with discipline, savings, and investment in our future and that of our community. Otherwise, the fantasy of happiness will vanish, leaving us empty and adrift.

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