Given the severity of what’s happened in the last few days, I feel compelled to drop some thoughts.

A few years ago, after stacking my first BTC through an exchange, I started lurking on Clubhouse/socials and following the usual Bitcoin circuit. Bitcoin has had a real impact on me, no doubt.

Eventually it was time to self-custody to become “a real Bitcoiner.” I bought two hardware wallets, including a Coldcard. Against my better judgment at the time, I chose the other one. I was ashamed of myself, like I’d made an insecure choice. I went for UX over the gold standard because I didn't trust myself not to screw something up.

Pure luck (and maybe that’s the point) ended up protecting my family’s wealth. I could’ve easily been a victim.

My heart goes out to everyone affected. It’s brutal. BRUTAL.

So for now, I’ve moved my funds out of cold storage and into trust. I can’t afford to lose my stack. 🤷‍♂️ Too much on the line.

Does that make me “not a real Bitcoiner”? I’ll leave that to you. I’m trying not to care. Before this week I would’ve thought the opposite. Today, I think “Bitcoiner” means smart people trying to do their best.

There’s a deeper problem in how “being a bitcoiner” is perceived. And I think it’s part of why we were all vulnerable. So much contradiction and lying.

- “Only buy KYC-free sats.” Pay more and use riskier/cutting-edge services where things can go wrong.

- “Self-custody your coins.” Take a risk you might not be ready for.

- “Bitcoin only.” Hedge your life's earnings into a young technology.

Enough of the fake standards!! (usually put forth by people with product incentive) . A lot of the people pushing that line:
- don’t buy KYC-free sats,
- already have other savings/safety nets,
- insure their BTC and pay others to secure it.

If you’re a pleb with a family and fuck-all else… make up rules that protect YOU. Ignore the shills. Do what’s best for YOU in the CURRENT system.

Learn, experiment, be prepared, eat well, touch grass, stay connected with real people. “Be a Bitcoiner”... but protect your future and family based on YOUR situation. There’s no cool club. No extra points. No Bitcoiner Valhalla. This isn’t a game. You can lose it all.

Be careful everyone, good luck and PV 🙏