I resonate a lot with your story. Not having "like minded individuals" for friends has been a common struggle in my life.

I have empathy for those that don't see past the facade. The school system, centralized media, and societal norms are strategically organized to produce cogs in the machine.

They likely envy those who pursue independent ventures and earn freedom from it, but lack the knowledge or drive to pursue it themselves. Sports (on tv), drinking, weed, video games, clubs, are often escapes from this frustration, not actual preferences. Not that these things can't be enjoyed sometimes.

So I consider the free thinking mindset a blessing in a world that tries to eliminate it.

We also live in the best timeline to be a free thinker, because the internet connects you to the others who share your niche interests. And with Nostr, they can't take this away from us.

As for "dropping baggage", I don't think it needs an explicit "break up conversation". I just give my energy to people who I feel like giving it to, and don't do things I don't want to do. Besides some family obligations of course. Some people stick around, some don't, and that's okay.

That's just how I handle it, not saying its correct or whatever. Good time to be alive though! 

 🤝✌️