I've been looking for a place to thank you personally, Sam, for your work--your scholarship, clarity of thinking, honesty, and integrity. You have been a bright light through these dark and turbulent times in which these qualities have been absent, among most of those in the media and politics, but seemingly among most people. Looking forward to more of it from you. Happy new year.
Richard, your response brought tears to my eyes, reminding me that there are fellow travelers who cherish Sam’s too-unique voice of integrity and clarity. It’s good to know that there are many like you for whom his bright light is a beacon of hope in these dark times, as you so eloquently said.
Want to reply here Jim as it is something some of us share. I am so glad that you are coming now to a different place and space than you were. It has been similar for me.
It is lovely to live slowly slowly in way that we bring our attention into greater clarity.
I have never seen a comment section as thoughtful and moving as this one. You are a wonderful group of people. Thinking about all of you is a terrific start to 2025 for this humble fellow. Cheers!
There are just a handful of people in this world whose absence I would truly miss. Sam, I hope you live many more happy years and continue to lend clarity to this very complicated existence of ours
I have a lot of respect for you Sam so I have tried to listen and carefully ponder your Trump criticisms, but you are now so deep into Trump derangement syndrome. I recommend that you consider your own logical fallacies and the effect that confirmation bias is having on your thinking when it pertains to anything Trump. He is not perfect, but Trump and everyone around him that you are do quick to condemn are not what you believe.
Happy New Years Mitchell. Could you explain your comments about Trump further? The president’s dereliction on Jan 6 and lies about the 2020 election seem pretty clear.
True. he is a criminal, liar, bully, cruel man. Yes his behaviour on 6 Jan was as Sam wrote. Yet this man is supported by the majority of the electors. Is that not a comment on Americans?
American media has spent almost half a century painting Trump as a “gets the job done” antihero. It makes sense that many have chosen him as the main character in our reality tv show.
With all due respect, it sounds like you might deep into Trump condoning syndrome. To say that he is not perfect is one heck of an understatement. January 6th, the fake electors scheme, the perpetual lying, serial misogyny, botched Covid response, the felonies, the stealing of top secret documents, refusal to concede the 2020 election, and is condemned by many of his former cabinet members, even his former VP! This is who you want leading our country?
He disagrees. As do I and roughly half of America. He won, so in the next four years he and his people will have an opportunity to prove us wrong and you right. I hope we are, because I have no interest in discovering the reasons behind my “I told you so” moment.
Would love to go head to head with you on a critical thinking and IQ comparison. Maybe just disagree with me. I could go through each of Sam’s point one by one and discuss/partially invalidate them. I’m sure you realize I could almost certainly raise equally valid points with whoever you prefer politically. To name just a few of the issues that I disagree with the previous administration on: the open border, pro Hamas/antisemitic stance, minimization of penalties for criminal behavior, gender ideology, weaponization of the justice system, influence peddling, and anti free Speech.
Interestingly, Sam seems to have the same stances on those topics. I think what it comes down to is Sam simply does not trust Trump. Personally, I have a high level of distrust for most, if not all, the people in high levels of government. But I'm crossing my fingers, because the solutions we need are nuanced and painful.
So go right ahead. You cannot take a moral high ground here without showing your cards. "I could go through each of Sam’s point one by one and discuss/partially invalidate them." The floor is yours.
Joining you on this mission sir. I believe reflecting on our mortality is one of the most impactful ways to stay grounded and reminded of what matters most. Much like the reminder I get from listening to the “Last Time” meditation on the Waking Up app, I reflect on my finitude and the fact that a day will come when I say goodbye to everyone I have ever loved for the last time. Thank you once again for the reminder. What better way to increase the odds of making the most of the time we have left, no matter how much more we get.
These comments on Trump should never be forgotten. They will by many, but sanewashing him is an insult to everything this country could and does stand for.
Sam, thank you for always shedding light on the shadow sides to self and, this world we live in. Appreciated your New Years thoughts as it made me reflect and contemplate. You've helped me live better, for which I'm forever grateful...
thanks sam. good piece. and yes, living as if this were my last year is indeed an interesting lens with which to filter thru the events of my life. thanks for the reminder...
I came to this after learning about the violent event that took place in NOLA. It seems the new year did not bring change to an abhorrent ideology. I’d be very interested in Sam doing a podcast with some left wing member of the media about why the continued threat posed by jihadists seems not to illicit the same ire that Trump does, or singular mass shooters on the left. To this day I cannot understand why this subject is treated so differently on the left than political opponents or lone wolf terrorists. Sam might be the only one that can make any headway on this issue for the American left.
Your words and intellect are always a blessing for me and this piece may be the most moving pieces you have written. Such a gift for the new year. Thank you. I hope that 2025 is full of health, love and happiness for you and your family.
Thanks Sam for your words! I am a fan and love your thoughts. I often think about how anyone can support a man that acted in such way on Jan 6th. It is incomprehensible...
So many things criminal, Trump University, sexual assaults and on an on... Blows my mind every day. The millionaires going to him, I was listening to one of them in an interview on Free Press with one of them who changed his thoughts and supported T.
He was talking as if nothing bad comes from him (Trump), but only from Democrats that need to be held accountable for their crimes against their, big tech, interests, as if their interest were ours too. If they are doing good, we the people will be okay too...
The only thing I cannot agree with you is that we have a democracy, we only have oligarchs, possibly, a change on the oligarchy Chiefs.
The New Year has arrived, and yet, for humanity, it seems to be business as usual—a sobering reminder of our collective predicament. The human family remains dysfunctional, unable to resist the cycles of exploitation, mistrust, and violence that define so much of our history. Fear drives us to build ever more powerful militaries, perpetuating the expectation of war rather than striving for peace. How is it that, after millennia of existence, we have not evolved beyond this destructive pattern? Why does it seem no one is seriously addressing this fundamental issue? It is the missing conversation, the one humanity desperately needs to have.
Yes, we endlessly discuss the problems we face—climate change, inequality, geopolitical tensions—but where are the bold solutions? Where is the new vision for a better future? Instead, world leaders, constrained by short-term thinking and entrenched systems, repeat the same tired strategies, expecting different results. As Einstein famously said, this is the definition of insanity. It’s as if no one is truly in charge; humanity is adrift, governed by unchecked impulses and a lack of collective direction. If we continue on this path of neglect and inertia, the outcome is all but certain: we will plunge off the proverbial cliff. The alarms are sounding—we are in a state of RED ALERT.
Over the years, I’ve thought deeply about this grave situation. I’ve sought out the perspectives of brilliant minds, absorbing insights from every credible source I could find. And while there is no shortage of intelligence or innovation in the world, what we lack—what we so desperately need—is wisdom. True wisdom is not just about knowledge or expertise; it is about the ability to see the bigger picture, to act with compassion, foresight, and courage for the collective good. Unfortunately, wise leadership is glaringly absent on a global scale.
But we cannot afford to wait for wisdom to appear. If it is missing, we must create it. This is not a task for one person or one group; it requires a collaborative effort, a movement of thoughtful, dedicated individuals willing to come together and chart a new course. To that end, I propose the creation of a new Platform for Transformation—a space where brilliant and influential minds can unite, not to dwell on the problems but to design actionable, scalable solutions for humanity’s future.
This platform would prioritize inclusion, bringing together thinkers, leaders, and visionaries from all walks of life—people who care deeply about the survival and flourishing of our species and planet. It would foster a culture of critical thinking, innovation, and accountability. The focus would be on addressing root causes, challenging outdated paradigms, and envisioning a future that embraces both humanity’s potential and the planet’s limits.
The truth is, if we do nothing, nothing will change. We will continue to drift, repeating history’s mistakes, until we reach a point of no return. But if we take responsibility, if we organize and act with purpose, we have the power to rewrite our story. The question is: will we rise to the challenge, or will we succumb to the same destructive forces that have held us back for so long? The time to decide is now. The stakes could not be higher.
I loved this whole letter. What I wish is that more small and richly informative books such as Timothy Snyder's "On Tyranny" were available on limitless topics. It is impossible to keep up with all that goes on in the world, especially in unfamiliar fields. I, for one, would very much appreciate having "tiny tutorials" (written in very clear language) available on whatever subject (new or old) I find confusing or downright incomprehensible, and portable little books (vs online sources) would be my preference.
I already thought that this essay was precisely on point as I read the first section about January 6th and the meaning of Trump's victory. The second part is on another plane altogether. I like your resolution for the coming year. It seems like something worth trying out.
I've been looking for a place to thank you personally, Sam, for your work--your scholarship, clarity of thinking, honesty, and integrity. You have been a bright light through these dark and turbulent times in which these qualities have been absent, among most of those in the media and politics, but seemingly among most people. Looking forward to more of it from you. Happy new year.
Richard, your response brought tears to my eyes, reminding me that there are fellow travelers who cherish Sam’s too-unique voice of integrity and clarity. It’s good to know that there are many like you for whom his bright light is a beacon of hope in these dark times, as you so eloquently said.
Thank you!
Same, for me. Thank you, Sam.
I concur!
Yeah, Sam. We need more from you. At least two podcast a week. Even if it's one with a guest and one PSA, rant, etc.
It’s so well written, I’m jealous! 😂
I was diagnosed with a terminal cancer 6 years ago. I'd lived a very fortunate life, but wasn't very happy with myself. Miserable actually.
The first 18 months were anxiety and stress.
It took reflection and really difficult work but realized (finally) who I was and why.
I started living as each year(not day) was/could be my last.
I'm 72,with a terminal disease and the happiest I've ever been.
I never made a resolution, still great advice and wish I'd learned that when I was 20, or 10.
Thanks Sam
Thanks for sharing this, Jim. All the best to you on your continuing journey
Want to reply here Jim as it is something some of us share. I am so glad that you are coming now to a different place and space than you were. It has been similar for me.
It is lovely to live slowly slowly in way that we bring our attention into greater clarity.
Thank you.
“Would I watch a bad movie? Probably not. Would I watch a bad movie with my girls? Absolutely.”
I found this very moving
I have never seen a comment section as thoughtful and moving as this one. You are a wonderful group of people. Thinking about all of you is a terrific start to 2025 for this humble fellow. Cheers!
This comment section feels like NPC land. 🤔
80% of you are basically just saying the same thing. Did I miss a programming note where we’re all supposed to express our gratitude to Sam in unison?
There are just a handful of people in this world whose absence I would truly miss. Sam, I hope you live many more happy years and continue to lend clarity to this very complicated existence of ours
I too have thought that Sam & his clarity are a treasure I can't imagine living without. ♥️
I have a lot of respect for you Sam so I have tried to listen and carefully ponder your Trump criticisms, but you are now so deep into Trump derangement syndrome. I recommend that you consider your own logical fallacies and the effect that confirmation bias is having on your thinking when it pertains to anything Trump. He is not perfect, but Trump and everyone around him that you are do quick to condemn are not what you believe.
If you've identified logical fallacies, it's generally helpful to actually articulate them instead of just blanketly assert "nuh-uh"
Happy New Years Mitchell. Could you explain your comments about Trump further? The president’s dereliction on Jan 6 and lies about the 2020 election seem pretty clear.
True. he is a criminal, liar, bully, cruel man. Yes his behaviour on 6 Jan was as Sam wrote. Yet this man is supported by the majority of the electors. Is that not a comment on Americans?
American media has spent almost half a century painting Trump as a “gets the job done” antihero. It makes sense that many have chosen him as the main character in our reality tv show.
With all due respect, it sounds like you might deep into Trump condoning syndrome. To say that he is not perfect is one heck of an understatement. January 6th, the fake electors scheme, the perpetual lying, serial misogyny, botched Covid response, the felonies, the stealing of top secret documents, refusal to concede the 2020 election, and is condemned by many of his former cabinet members, even his former VP! This is who you want leading our country?
Heckuvan understatement seems right.
On January 6 Mike Pence was minutes away from seizure, beating, and hanging.
On January 6 Nancy Pelosi was minutes away from seizure and a beating to death.
Trump's calling January 6 a "Day of Love" is manipulative bullshit.
Respectfully Mitchell, you are the one with the derangement
He disagrees. As do I and roughly half of America. He won, so in the next four years he and his people will have an opportunity to prove us wrong and you right. I hope we are, because I have no interest in discovering the reasons behind my “I told you so” moment.
You mean, “ you tried to listen and ponder” and you failed. Just admit your limits to critical thinking, rather than blaming the messenger.
Would love to go head to head with you on a critical thinking and IQ comparison. Maybe just disagree with me. I could go through each of Sam’s point one by one and discuss/partially invalidate them. I’m sure you realize I could almost certainly raise equally valid points with whoever you prefer politically. To name just a few of the issues that I disagree with the previous administration on: the open border, pro Hamas/antisemitic stance, minimization of penalties for criminal behavior, gender ideology, weaponization of the justice system, influence peddling, and anti free Speech.
Interestingly, Sam seems to have the same stances on those topics. I think what it comes down to is Sam simply does not trust Trump. Personally, I have a high level of distrust for most, if not all, the people in high levels of government. But I'm crossing my fingers, because the solutions we need are nuanced and painful.
So go right ahead. You cannot take a moral high ground here without showing your cards. "I could go through each of Sam’s point one by one and discuss/partially invalidate them." The floor is yours.
Mitchell I have to tell you TDS works both ways, some are terrified, some in denial. One day I hope both groups will recover. Peace. 😪
Joining you on this mission sir. I believe reflecting on our mortality is one of the most impactful ways to stay grounded and reminded of what matters most. Much like the reminder I get from listening to the “Last Time” meditation on the Waking Up app, I reflect on my finitude and the fact that a day will come when I say goodbye to everyone I have ever loved for the last time. Thank you once again for the reminder. What better way to increase the odds of making the most of the time we have left, no matter how much more we get.
These comments on Trump should never be forgotten. They will by many, but sanewashing him is an insult to everything this country could and does stand for.
Well said.
Sam, for many many years, I’ve read and listened to your wisdom. Thank you. I’m joining you! May 2025 be ok.
Sam, thank you for always shedding light on the shadow sides to self and, this world we live in. Appreciated your New Years thoughts as it made me reflect and contemplate. You've helped me live better, for which I'm forever grateful...
thanks sam. good piece. and yes, living as if this were my last year is indeed an interesting lens with which to filter thru the events of my life. thanks for the reminder...
I came to this after learning about the violent event that took place in NOLA. It seems the new year did not bring change to an abhorrent ideology. I’d be very interested in Sam doing a podcast with some left wing member of the media about why the continued threat posed by jihadists seems not to illicit the same ire that Trump does, or singular mass shooters on the left. To this day I cannot understand why this subject is treated so differently on the left than political opponents or lone wolf terrorists. Sam might be the only one that can make any headway on this issue for the American left.
Your words and intellect are always a blessing for me and this piece may be the most moving pieces you have written. Such a gift for the new year. Thank you. I hope that 2025 is full of health, love and happiness for you and your family.
Thanks Sam for your words! I am a fan and love your thoughts. I often think about how anyone can support a man that acted in such way on Jan 6th. It is incomprehensible...
So many things criminal, Trump University, sexual assaults and on an on... Blows my mind every day. The millionaires going to him, I was listening to one of them in an interview on Free Press with one of them who changed his thoughts and supported T.
He was talking as if nothing bad comes from him (Trump), but only from Democrats that need to be held accountable for their crimes against their, big tech, interests, as if their interest were ours too. If they are doing good, we the people will be okay too...
The only thing I cannot agree with you is that we have a democracy, we only have oligarchs, possibly, a change on the oligarchy Chiefs.
Quick comment: nobody is or can be right, never mind perfect, BUT no way are these two sides comparable! One full on criminal.
The New Year has arrived, and yet, for humanity, it seems to be business as usual—a sobering reminder of our collective predicament. The human family remains dysfunctional, unable to resist the cycles of exploitation, mistrust, and violence that define so much of our history. Fear drives us to build ever more powerful militaries, perpetuating the expectation of war rather than striving for peace. How is it that, after millennia of existence, we have not evolved beyond this destructive pattern? Why does it seem no one is seriously addressing this fundamental issue? It is the missing conversation, the one humanity desperately needs to have.
Yes, we endlessly discuss the problems we face—climate change, inequality, geopolitical tensions—but where are the bold solutions? Where is the new vision for a better future? Instead, world leaders, constrained by short-term thinking and entrenched systems, repeat the same tired strategies, expecting different results. As Einstein famously said, this is the definition of insanity. It’s as if no one is truly in charge; humanity is adrift, governed by unchecked impulses and a lack of collective direction. If we continue on this path of neglect and inertia, the outcome is all but certain: we will plunge off the proverbial cliff. The alarms are sounding—we are in a state of RED ALERT.
Over the years, I’ve thought deeply about this grave situation. I’ve sought out the perspectives of brilliant minds, absorbing insights from every credible source I could find. And while there is no shortage of intelligence or innovation in the world, what we lack—what we so desperately need—is wisdom. True wisdom is not just about knowledge or expertise; it is about the ability to see the bigger picture, to act with compassion, foresight, and courage for the collective good. Unfortunately, wise leadership is glaringly absent on a global scale.
But we cannot afford to wait for wisdom to appear. If it is missing, we must create it. This is not a task for one person or one group; it requires a collaborative effort, a movement of thoughtful, dedicated individuals willing to come together and chart a new course. To that end, I propose the creation of a new Platform for Transformation—a space where brilliant and influential minds can unite, not to dwell on the problems but to design actionable, scalable solutions for humanity’s future.
This platform would prioritize inclusion, bringing together thinkers, leaders, and visionaries from all walks of life—people who care deeply about the survival and flourishing of our species and planet. It would foster a culture of critical thinking, innovation, and accountability. The focus would be on addressing root causes, challenging outdated paradigms, and envisioning a future that embraces both humanity’s potential and the planet’s limits.
The truth is, if we do nothing, nothing will change. We will continue to drift, repeating history’s mistakes, until we reach a point of no return. But if we take responsibility, if we organize and act with purpose, we have the power to rewrite our story. The question is: will we rise to the challenge, or will we succumb to the same destructive forces that have held us back for so long? The time to decide is now. The stakes could not be higher.
Let us put on our thinking caps and begin.
I loved this whole letter. What I wish is that more small and richly informative books such as Timothy Snyder's "On Tyranny" were available on limitless topics. It is impossible to keep up with all that goes on in the world, especially in unfamiliar fields. I, for one, would very much appreciate having "tiny tutorials" (written in very clear language) available on whatever subject (new or old) I find confusing or downright incomprehensible, and portable little books (vs online sources) would be my preference.
I already thought that this essay was precisely on point as I read the first section about January 6th and the meaning of Trump's victory. The second part is on another plane altogether. I like your resolution for the coming year. It seems like something worth trying out.