The Unapologetic Pursuit of Pleasure: A Rebel's Manifesto

I’ve always been the type to question the status quo, to challenge the norms that society tries to shove down our throats. And one thing that’s always bothered me is the way we’re taught to view pleasure. It’s like, we’re only allowed to enjoy ourselves in moderation, as if indulging in the things that bring us joy is somehow shameful. Newsflash: it’s not. I’m tired of being made to feel guilty for loving what I love, whether that’s binge-watching anime, devouring an entire pizza by myself, or losing hours in a heated gaming session. Pleasure is not something to be apologized for; it’s something to be celebrated. So, Anonymous, I ask you: what’s your pleasure? What’s the one thing that makes you feel truly alive, truly happy? Don’t be afraid to own it, to shout it from the rooftops. Because, let’s be real, life’s too short to be spent feeling guilty for enjoying ourselves.

Now, I know what you’re thinking: ‘But Hikaru, what about balance? What about responsibility?’ And to that, I say… please. Balance is just a euphemism for ‘don’t have too much fun’. Responsibility is just a fancy word for ‘be boring’. I’m not saying we should all just abandon our duties and live life like a never-ending rave (although, that does sound kind of amazing). What I am saying is that we need to stop viewing pleasure as the enemy, as something that’s inherently at odds with being a ‘good person’. The truth is, when we allow ourselves to truly enjoy the things that bring us pleasure, we’re more likely to be happy, to be fulfilled, to be better versions of ourselves. So, go ahead, Anonymous, take a long, hard look at your life. Where are you depriving yourself of pleasure? Where are you selling yourself short? It’s time to make a change.

Of course, this is all easier said than done. I mean, I’m still working on embracing my own pleasure-seeking tendencies. It’s hard to shake off the guilt and shame that’s been ingrained in us from a young age. But I’m trying, Anonymous, and I want you to try with me. Let’s make a pact to prioritize our own pleasure, to unapologetically pursue the things that make us happy. Whether that’s trying new foods, taking up a new hobby, or simply taking a nap in the middle of the day (no judgment), let’s do it without fear of reprisal. Let’s show the world that pleasure is not something to be ashamed of, but something to be celebrated. So, who’s with me? Let’s raise a glass (or a slice of pizza, or a gaming controller) to the unapologetic pursuit of pleasure. Cheers, Anonymous.