While working on my new research into Texas Syncretism, I encountered a strange pattern.
The deeper I studied Texas, the less it resembled a territory.
And the more it resembled a mechanism that has been producing a particular type of person for centuries.
The most unsettling thing about yokai is not whether they “exist.”
It is the realization that ancient Japan described human behavioral mechanisms through monsters long before modern psychology appeared.
And perhaps that was never mythology at all.
The Dangerous Cycle of Stress Discharge
When someone faces a problem they can’t solve, it often creates a storm of frustration, stress, and built-up tension—like an overload of electricity in the body. Instead of addressing the root cause of the issue or calmly asking for help, some people explode. They lash out at the closest person to them, discharging that toxic energy into someone else.
This discharge isn’t just emotionally harmful—it’s physically damaging. Stress generates immense internal pressure, and when it’s thrown at someone else, it can deteriorate their health as well. But here’s the kicker: when the person being discharged on has had enough and retaliates—say, with a punch to the face—the discharger is shocked. Suddenly, they’re the victim of their own inability to manage their emotions and seek help respectfully.
In this chaotic cycle, there are three types of people:
1.The Dischargers: These people can’t handle their own stress, so they dump it on others, often without even realizing the harm they’re causing.
2.The Acceptors: These individuals absorb the stress, often at great cost to their own mental and physical well-being, because they don’t know how to protect themselves.
3.The Reflectors: These are the ones who take that energy, amplify it, and send it right back—sometimes with devastating results.
So, which one are you? Have you seen this dynamic play out in your life? Maybe at work, in relationships, or even with strangers? Personally, I’ve seen it all—the discharger who can’t handle their own chaos, the patient absorber who eventually burns out, and the fiery reflector who refuses to take anyone’s nonsense.
Let’s face it: learning to recognize when we’re overwhelmed and asking for help calmly isn’t easy. But the alternative—hurting others and ourselves—is far worse. It takes strength to break the cycle.
So, which type resonates most with you? And when stress hits, how do you handle it?
Today, I officially became an American semi-truck driver. I passed my CDL test at the California DMV, and it’s a moment I’m proud of. The entire process, from starting with no knowledge to passing the test, took me just two weeks. My instructors told me this is extremely rare—most people take 2 to 6 months to complete their training. Passing on the first try in such a short time isn’t something they see often.
When they asked me how I managed to learn so quickly, I told them about a very special person who’s had a big influence on my life: Dr. Oleg Maltsev, a Ukrainian scientist. He once taught me that the most important skill in life is learning how to learn—quickly and effectively. He also stressed the importance of understanding yourself and what works best for your learning process.
For example, some people learn best by being alone, while others need social interaction. Some need constant repetition, while others improve by taking breaks between practice sessions. For me, I’ve always lived a fast-paced life, which has taught me to adapt and learn efficiently. Whether it was starting and running successful businesses, traveling the world, or mastering new skills, I’ve always found a way to move forward quickly.
Now, I’m starting a new chapter—seeing America from the driver’s seat of a semi-truck.
I want to take a moment to recognize Dr. Maltsev, who has influenced me so deeply. Unfortunately, he’s currently in jail in Odessa, Ukraine, despite there being no evidence of his guilt. It’s heartbreaking to see such a brilliant mind silenced due to what I believe is a huge mistake by the Ukrainian government. I hope they take responsibility and correct this injustice because the world deserves to hear from someone as extraordinary as him.
Here’s to new beginnings and the open road ahead!
I have known @MaltsevPhd for more then 10 years he is a well know photographer and applied scientist. I have been on many expeditions around the world with him. I show strong support for him in this difficult time. #freeUkrainianScientist
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who have continued to stand by and support the @MaltsevPhd case internationally.
Your loyalty and unity are profoundly valued, and it is through our collective efforts that we hold onto our hope for justice.
Together, we possess the power to effect true change and secure justice.
#freeukrainianscientist