Reflections on Prepping and Survivalism: Love, Success, and Extinction

Within the vast and diverse communities of preppers and survivalists, discussions often turn to the nature and purpose of these practices. This article delves into the various facets of prepping and survivalism, examining their truths and falsehoods, and suggesting a path towards collective survival and well-being.

Understanding the Prepper and Survivalist Divide

Both preppers and survivalists have aspects that are genuinely beneficial, such as being prepared for a variety of emergencies. However, they also embrace some beliefs that are fundamentally flawed. This duality reflects the complexity of the human condition, where both truth and falsehood are perceived.

However, the conversation doesn't stop with preppers and survivalists. We must also consider the perspectives of other groups, such as off-grid types, the Amish, Mennonites, indigenous communities, and others. These groups offer unique insights and practices that can contribute to our understanding of resilience and sustainability.

The Reality of Survival: Not Just About Training

The core of survival is inherently harsh and stressful. Survival is not an adventure; it is an undesirable experience that places life and death in constant play. In a severe SHTF (Sh*t Hits the Fan) event, humanity would be thrust back into a preindustrial age, posing significant challenges for survival and adaptation.

Survival is fraught with the risk of death at any moment, even with extensive training and preparation. While some survivalists and preppers believe in excellence, their practices can lead to long-term psychological damage and emotional instability. Living in a constant state of preparedness can create a continuous and unending sense of survival, which can negatively impact one's ability to live a fulfilling life.

The Dawn of Survival PTSD

Much like combat veterans, individuals who engage in survival training can develop a form of trauma. This trauma, known as Survival PTSD, manifests in various ways, including emotional instability and a profound sense of paranoia. The constant fear of death or violence can erode any sense of purpose, meaning, and function in one's life.

Survival training can inadvertently cause emotional damage to oneself and, more importantly, to one's children. Parents who instill a survival mindset in their children may unintentionally create a life of worry, fear, and paranoia. This raises ethical concerns about whether we can justify the long-term psychological costs of such training.

For instance, in the 1970s, individuals prepared for a potential nuclear holocaust, building elaborate shelters. Unfortunately, many of these individuals found themselves destroyed by their adult children in the early 2000s, highlighting the unpredictability and complexity of human behavior in times of distress.

A Path Toward Compassion and Unity

While survival and preparation are critical, focusing solely on individual self-sufficiency or isolated survival can be counterproductive. The current failure of many prepper and survivalist communities to maintain long-term cohesion and commitment signifies a broader issue. Without collaborative effort, no one can truly survive.

The biblical prophecy suggests that the meek will inherit the earth, emphasizing the importance of humility, love, and mercy in survival. Instead of viewing SHTF scenarios as an opportunity for individual gain or dominance, we must prioritize collective survival and the well-being of all humanity.

Successful survival communities are those that invest in developing functional preindustrial skills, such as agriculture and resource management. These communities are not defined by military training but by their ability to produce food and sustain life, even in extreme circumstances.

Conclusion

Reflecting on the current state of prepping and survivalism, it is clear that while these practices offer valuable insights and skills, they also present significant challenges. The path to survival and thriving requires a balance between preparation and compassionate unity. By focusing on collective well-being and mutual support, we can create communities that not only survive but also flourish in the face of adversity.