I believe in using words, not fists. I believe in my outrage

Host: The quiet in the room feels more intense as Jack and Jeeny process Bertrand Russell’s bold words: "I believe in using words, not fists. I believe in my outrage knowing people are living in boxes on the street. I believe in honesty. I believe in a good time. I believe in good food. I believe in sex." Jack takes a deep breath, reflecting on the variety of beliefs Russell lays out, while Jeeny watches him, sensing that the quote is sparking a deeper conversation about the balance between ideals and actions.

Jack: (his voice thoughtful) "There’s so much packed into this quote, isn’t there? Russell is speaking to a belief system rooted in both action and awareness. He believes in words, in dialogue over violence. He’s outraged by the reality of homelessness, and he also believes in living fully—enjoying the simple pleasures like food, love, and honesty. It’s almost like he’s presenting a philosophy of life that’s deeply human—focused on connection, truth, and making the most of what we have."

Jeeny: (nodding, her voice reflective) "Exactly. What strikes me is how Russell combines the seriousness of social issues with the importance of living in the moment, of finding joy in life’s simpler pleasures. He’s acknowledging the real struggles people face—like homelessness—but also recognizing that we must live authentically and embrace life, including the more joyful, even sensual aspects. It’s a call to balance outrage and action with honesty, pleasure, and celebration."

Jack: (pausing, his voice curious) "But it’s the way he starts—using words, not fists—that really resonates. It seems like he’s making a point about the power of communication over violence, about how important it is to express outrage in a constructive way rather than letting it turn into frustration or aggression. It’s almost like he’s suggesting that in times of injustice, we have the responsibility to speak up, to use our voices to challenge the status quo."

Jeeny: (smiling softly, her voice inspirational) "Yes, it’s about using awareness and action through words rather than resorting to aggression. Russell’s stance on outrage, especially regarding issues like homelessness, isn’t just about feeling angry or frustrated—it’s about channeling that emotion into change. But he’s also saying we shouldn’t forget about the other side of life—pleasure, joy, and authenticity. It's a reminder that we can be both passionate about justice and enjoy the richness of life at the same time."

Host: The stillness in the room grows as Jack and Jeeny reflect on the balance between activism and living fully. Russell’s beliefs are a complex combination of engagement with the world’s problems and the celebration of life’s pleasures, urging them to use words to create change while also embracing joy. Jack looks out the window for a moment, considering the mix of serious ideals and everyday enjoyment, while Jeeny remains calm, her thoughts gently moving through the ideas.

Jack: (his voice softer, almost realizing) "It makes me think about how easy it is to get caught up in just one side of life—either focusing all your energy on fighting for justice, or getting lost in the pursuit of pleasure. Russell is showing us that the two don’t have to be separate. You can fight for change and celebrate life at the same time. Maybe that’s where true fulfillment comes from—living honestly and with passion for both the world around you and the experiences that bring you joy."

Jeeny: (nodding, her voice supportive) "Yes, it’s the balance between action and enjoyment. We can feel outraged by the injustices in the world, but we can also embrace the beauty of life, enjoy good food, love, and sensuality. It’s a reminder that we don’t have to choose between being aware of the world’s struggles and living authentically. Both can coexist, and together, they can help us lead a richer, more connected life."

Host: The conversation feels complete now, the complexity of Bertrand Russell’s beliefs offering a profound reminder of how to live—aware, engaged, but also joyful. His combination of outrage and appreciation for life’s pleasures invites a deeper way of being in the world—one where we honor both the need for change and the importance of living fully. The night outside has settled, but the clarity of their thoughts continues to resonate, a reminder that we can speak up for what’s right while also finding joy in the small moments of life.