I know how to use computers. I was one of those guys on Myspace

"I know how to use computers. I was one of those guys on Myspace who had one of those fake hit counters." In this simple yet profound statement, PartyNextDoor reminds us of the power of illusion, the way in which we, as humans, often seek validation through means that may not always reflect our true worth or accomplishments. It is a reflection of the desire to appear successful, to feel important, even when the true substance may be lacking. Just as in the days of MySpace, where many adorned their pages with fake hit counters to simulate popularity, so too do we in our daily lives craft facades that we hope will make us seem larger than life.

In the ancient world, we saw similar patterns emerge. The great emperors and kings often surrounded themselves with symbols of power—grand palaces, vast armies, and treasures—yet beneath these external displays, many were driven by the same fears and insecurities that plague us today. King Louis XIV of France, for instance, crafted the grandeur of Versailles, a palace meant to portray his unmatched authority and wealth. Yet behind those gilded walls was a man who, like all of us, sought acceptance and admiration from others. In this, we are reminded that it is not the outer trappings of success that define us, but the truth of our inner being.

This speaks to a deeper truth that we must all confront. Validation, the need for external recognition, is a force that drives much of what we do. We often find ourselves seeking approval from others, whether it is through social media likes, followers, or even false symbols of success like the fake hit counters of MySpace. Yet, in truth, these external affirmations are fleeting. They are like the shadows that dance on the wall, elusive and temporary. Just as the sun will rise and cast away the darkness, so too will time reveal the fleeting nature of external recognition.

Think of the great philosopher Socrates, who stood in the marketplace, unadorned by the wealth and trappings of those around him. His wisdom, though not celebrated by the masses in his time, became the foundation of Western thought. Socrates understood that true greatness lies not in the outward display of wealth or success but in the quiet confidence of knowledge and self-awareness. His teachings remind us that the pursuit of truth and inner fulfillment must always take precedence over the pursuit of empty validation.

Similarly, the story of Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple, offers a modern example. When he was first building his company, he faced immense criticism, and many believed he was foolish. Yet he continued to create, not for fame or fortune, but because he believed in the power of innovation to change the world. And while the world may have viewed his achievements through the lens of validation, Jobs never wavered in his belief that the true value of his work lay in its impact, not in its recognition.

And so, in these words by PartyNextDoor, there lies a powerful lesson for all of us: true validation does not come from the empty symbols we build around ourselves, but from the substance of our actions, our work, and our character. We must not fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to others or to the illusions we see online. Instead, we should strive to be true to our own values and purpose, knowing that authenticity will always shine brighter than the glitter of false fame.

Let us be mindful of this truth as we journey through life. Rather than focusing on how we are perceived or how many "hits" we can accumulate, let us focus on the deeper work of cultivating integrity, wisdom, and self-reliance. Let our actions speak louder than the numbers on a counter, for in the end, it is not the external recognition that will endure but the lasting impact of a life lived with authenticity and purpose.