WX3

[DISCLAIMER]

I suspect old school hip hop heads will recall the track “WWIII” by Shabaam Sahdeeq and Pharoahe Monch from the classic Soundbombing II album (1999). If not, you missed out. The lyricists stated on the chorus of the song:

Weight of the world on your shoulders, gotta hold it up

When the pen’s burnin’ the paper, never fold it up

When the plan is set in motion, never slow it up

We seize the planet like war, then we blow it up

[x2]

Considering the lyrics through the frame of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), in particular the ABC model, I recognize flexible use of a demandingness narrative (i.e., weight of the world on your shoulders, gotta hold it up). Are you familiar with this form of counsel?

This guidance isn’t like using irrational beliefs related to absolutistic or conditional gotta-type personal narratives (i.e., respectively: you absolutely must hold the weight of the world or your shoulders; or if you don’t want to self-disturb, then you should hold up the weight of the world).

Rather, the lyricists used a recommendatory gotta-type narrative. It may be useful to conceptualize this matter as seemingly helpful advice that an individual can ignore if choosing to do so. In such an instance, the person providing the counsel doesn’t self-upset in return.

In essence, the lyricists suggest that the ‘weight of the world is on your shoulders, so it’s recommended that you should hold it up.’ Yet, if you disregard the recommendation, the lyricists may be disappointed. This is arguably a better outcome than if they became enraged.

Aside from my REBT perspective on that particular line, I interpret the lines “when the pen’s burnin’ the paper, we never fold it up” and “when the plan is set in motion, never slow it up” to mean that the lyricists choose not to interfere with progress. I can appreciate this viewpoint.

Regarding the topic of the current blogpost, the line “we seize the planet like war, then we blow it up” can be interpreted in a number of ways. First, the lyricists could be suggesting a desire for global dominance relating to their craft.

For instance, the statement “blow up the spot” can relate to exposing something that is meant to be kept private. In the case of “WWIII”, the lyricists could maintain an interest in becoming famous, thus revealing to the unseen world their skills (i.e., proverbially blowing up the planet).

Second, the lyricists could be signifying that they draw the world’s attention in a manner such as in the case of World War I and World War II. In this way, destroying the preexisting order of operations (i.e., blowing up) relates to establishing supremacy over collective awareness.

Lastly, the lyricists debatably could be expressing that they literally want to “seize the planet” in world war-like terms, and then annihilate as many people as possible. This is presumably the least likely interpretation, though one that pertains to the current blogpost.

Shifting from Soundbombing II to Israel and Iran recently bombing one another, I wonder about the interpretation of President Donald Trump’s expressed statements. For example, one source notes Trump’s slogan of “no new wars,” as he’s often touted as a relatively peaceful leader.

Yet, the United States backs Israel in its apparent conflict with other Middle Eastern countries and territories. Per one source, “the president now faces the prospect of Iranian attacks on U.S. interests and an unpredictable, economically damaging wider war across the Middle East.”

I’ve observed many people logically and reasonably stating that our country’s continued support of Israel in this manner has the potential of leading to World War III (WX3). Per one source, “Vladimir Putin condemned Israel’s military operation against Iran,” as Russia is Iran’s ally.

Also, I think it’s worth noting that our nation still backs Ukraine against Russia, Israel’s potentially genocidal or ethnic cleansing behavior in Gaza, and now Israel’s strikes against Iran—all three military campaigns constituting unofficially declared wars (WX3). Why?

Plausibly the least charitable view of Shabaam Sahdeeq and Pharoahe Monch’s perspective on “WWIII”, concerning seizure of the planet in world war-like terms, and then annihilating as many people as possible, may relate to the path upon which the U.S. treads. Why?

For a “no new wars” president, Trump’s actions don’t inspire confidence. As I practice unconditional acceptance to keep from self-disturbing about this matter, I also continue to think critically about how an “America First” or “Make America Great Again” policy now applies.

Presuming you aren’t thinking irrationally about this matter, what’s your view on what appears to be a full sprint toward WX3? Also, understanding that you have zero control and exceedingly limited influence over WX3, how are you reacting to these currently evolving events?

If you’re looking for a provider who tries to work to help you understand how thinking impacts physical, mental, emotional, and behavioral elements of your life, I invite you to reach out today by using the contact widget on my website.

As the world’s foremost hip hop-influenced REBT psychotherapist, I’m pleased to try to help people with an assortment of issues from anger (hostility, rage, and aggression) to relational issues, adjustment matters, trauma experience, justice involvement, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety and depression, and other mood or personality-related matters.

At Hollings Therapy, LLC, serving all of Texas, I aim to treat clients with dignity and respect while offering a multi-lensed approach to the practice of psychotherapy and life coaching. My mission includes: Prioritizing the cognitive and emotive needs of clients, an overall reduction in client suffering, and supporting sustainable growth for the clients I serve. Rather than simply trying to help you to feel better, I want to try to help you get better!

Deric Hollings, LPC, LCSW

Photo credit (edited), fair use

References:

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