IOJ Thread Alert: September 9, 2004

The Threat: A subversive web-site has been found that undermines the quest for true joy. The Institute for Play, as they call themselves, professes that play can play can lead to joy, that it is important to play, and that even as adults we should play. The so-called institute has gone to great lengths to promote this insidious concept. They use anecdotal evidence to support their claims. They have even produced TV shows that have appeared on PBS. This group is dangerous to The Cause.

The IOJ Response: For children, play is okay. It can be a wonderful forum in which to learn power dynamics. Competitive sports provide many opportunities to practice the tools of manipulation and coersion. Violent sports, like football and hockey, are even better. They provide opportunities for those less physically gifted to learn that manipulation and when necessary name-calling can produce positive results. These lessons tend to be natural bi-products of childhood play.

However, for adults who wish to lead a joyful life, play is NOT okay. Play is EVIL. All activities, no matter how pleasurable and freeing, must be focused towards the attainment of power. Play provides a temporary high. Temporary highs lead to temporary lows. The more the cycle is repeated, the more dangerous it becomes. Power is lost.

It is only necessary to visit your nearest crack house to see the results of this euphoria/funk cycle. We consider it morally wrong for anyone to profess such a thing.

Turn away from play. Or use it to your advantage. Do one of the two, but never, NEVER, engage in play for the mere purpose of playing. It is dangerous. You will have fun, and fun is dangerous.

If you do attempt to join in the game for the purpose of practicing your most recent power tips, beware of the potential for losing focus. Play can, as can cocaine, marijuana, heroin, and any of a number of other drugs, lead to a loss of focus. If you have any doubts about your ability, turn away from play, quickly and without regret. Play is EVIL.