Big thanks to everyone who came to our party on Friday. People flew from at least 3 continents just for the party. One person came all the way from Africa just from reading this newsletter!
After more than a year of quiet work, it was hugely gratifying to celebrate the launch of our devnet with you. If you missed the announcement, see here.
Nockchain Media Updates
Now that the devnet is up and running, expect some minor changes to the content and cadence of this newsletter.
We anticipate more technical updates on Nockchain and the ZK space, and perhaps fewer of the longform essays we've published over the past year.
We'll continue our ongoing research and culture-building, but possibly with some new channels and formats in the new year.
Most immediately, we now have a Telegram group and technical forum.
And next week, we're off for Christmas. The next newsletter and Twitter/X space will be in 2025.
Avoid the Gumption Trap
Robert Pirsig introduced the concept of "gumption traps" in his 1974 book Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance to describe mental blocks that sap motivation and prevent task completion.
1. Set strict time limits on research. This prevents analysis paralysis on decisions where additional research yields diminishing returns.
2. Start with consistent action first, research second. Begin by copying successful patterns while passively absorbing information. This embeds the habit before the research spiral begins. When better information arrives later, the established habit is easier to update.
Also, don't announce your plans until you've been executing them for several weeks.
Environmental Official Dies After BioLab Testimony
The New York Post reports that Kenny Johnson, a 62-year-old Rockdale County environmental official, died after testifying about a toxic chemical plant fire at BioLab. Johnson had warned about the environmental risks, telling reporters "I knew this was going to happen." BioLab, which manufactures pool chemicals, has a history of serious fires, including two in 2020. Johnson collapsed shortly after testifying about the environmental disaster, which released hazardous chlorine gas from the facility located outside Atlanta. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is investigating his death, with autopsy results pending.
Man on Wire (2008)
Not exactly a hidden gem, but if you haven't seen it, you have to watch this documentary about Philippe Petit's illegal high-wire walk between the World Trade Center towers in 1974. Years and years of training and planning, for no reason other than the glory. It's exactly what we said in General Acrobatics. I remember liking this film when I watched it years ago, but after re-watching it a few weeks ago, it was even more touching and inspiring than I remember. Strong recommend. IMDB.
From our families to yours... Merry Christmas and a happy holiday. ;-)
